Experience

Perched high above sea level, The Restaurant offers stunning views towards the coconut grove and beach. Open all day, the cuisine is Asian and Mediterranean with an emphasis on local seafood from the Indian Ocean. For guests who like al fresco dining, the Pool Terrace is ideal. Adjacent to the swimming pool it serves simple lunches, local fruit and fresh young coconuts. In the evening guests can dine on home style dishes and antipasti while relaxing on the daybeds. Close to the beachfront amidst coconut trees and away from the main building, the Beach Club provides an alternative venue for lunch and private dinners. The menu includes simple Asian salads, Mediterranean classics (using the local seafood), granitas and freshly churned ice cream. Seafood is cooked over a coconut charcoal barbeque and served with garden fresh salads and local relishes.

There is much for guests to experience close to Amanwella, situated as it is in the heart of Wella Wathuara village, where an early morning or evening stroll along the village paths that wind through the jungle provide an interesting insight into daily village life. Chances abound to also view the diverse wildlife in the area including monkeys, birds, mouse deer, monitor lizards, hares and mongooses.

Just 10 kilometres east of Tangalle is the Rekawa Turtle Conservation project which is home to one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in Sri Lanka. Visit the beach on the night of the full moon and in the glowing moonlight see the influx of turtles as they come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand.

Back in the haven of Amanwella guests can relax, swim in the pool or visit the Spa where a range of massages, traditional therapies and body treatments is on offer all using natural ingredients from Sri Lanka’s cornucopia of herbs, plants and flowers.

At Amanwella there is a calm, a solid peace, where a dedication to nurture is reflected in its sensitivity to the environment.

Accommodation

Amanwella is a beachfront retreat designed and styled in accordance with its striking setting. The resort’s architecture pays homage to Sri Lanka’s renowned architect Geoffrey Bawas. His approach was evocatively personal, highlighting the senses that go hand in hand with climate, landscape and modern and ancient civilisation. He brought together an appreciation of Western humanist architectural tradition together with the lifestyle and culture of his own country. This sensitive approach has been skilfully interpreted at Amanwella, using materials such as stone, timber and clay tiles, emulating a sense of oneness with nature.

The 30 identical suites differ only in location, most of them on the hillside with Ocean Suites being lower down and enjoying uninterrupted views of the coconut grove and beach. The interiors are suitably contemporary with a palette of soothing beige, cream, honey and wood easy and pleasing to the eye. Floor to ceiling glass and latticed panels form two sides of the suite; one opening onto a private walled entry courtyard and plunge pool, with the terrace side opposite affording open views. The plunge pool measures six by four metres and the courtyard features a banquette for lounging and dining. Timber sliding doors and panels reveal the interior spaces.