Surrounded by swaying coconut palms and sculpted into a hill
that tumbles down to a golden-sand beach, Amanwella wows first of all with a
beautiful location.
But it is the simplicity of its streamlined design, the
expanse of terraced grounds, and the style of the guest suites that draw praise
as the ultimate expression of luxury.
As we trailed Sri Lanka’s southern coast on our way from the
Yala National Park to Galle we did not miss the opportunity to stay at
Amanwella. After all, this beachfront resort is managed by Aman, which we count
among our favourite hotel brands.
This modern-looking property represents a singular vision
from the Australian architect Kerry Hill, who looked to the celebrated Sri
Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa for inspiration. He found it in sharp angles and
almost-monumental proportions, so prevalent in the architecture of the past
century.
In a stark contrast to the resort’s organic setting — where
wild palms sway in the wind and waves crash on the wide beach below — the lines
of architecture exude strong modernist influences. The sheets of glass on the
facades of the buildings reflect the tropical sky and brilliant sun on the
outside — and ensure great views from inside. Thus, the bar and the restaurant
above the Amanwella’s main swimming pool provide a beautiful venue for
afternoon cocktails, and breakfasts in particular, which quickly became our
favourite meal time.
Spread out amid a mature palm grove, Amanwella’s contemporary
suites enjoy a secluded jungle setting, and some benefit from beautiful views
towards the sea.
The pleasant interiors of the guest rooms continue the
quasi-modernist style. Set in sand-and-teak tones and finished with pared-down
furniture, they feel exclusive and inviting. Thanks to the floor-to-ceiling
sliding doors, the open-plan bedroom and bathroom spill onto a spacious balcony
in front and an enclosure at the back, filled with a plunge pool.
The private vibe of our suite made it our preferred place to
hang out, but this atmosphere is present in the entire resort. With only
twenty-seven rooms spread across a wide area, it never feels crowded here. This
is fundamental to the Aman experience, and Amanwella does it well.
Taking a stroll on one of the prettiest beaches we’ve seen
in this part of Sri Lanka is a pleasure on its own — even better if there is a
good destination on the far end. The club, on the other side of the bay,
provides an alternative venue for chilling out and it’s a good place for a light
lunch. It’s just one more thing that makes Amanwella great as a relaxed beach
retreat destination.
That said, there is much to explore outside of the resort’s
luxury bubble. With the location near the remote town of Tangalle, the hotel is
not far from a couple of National Parks. Safari drives can be easily organised
and the experienced guides can track elephants, crocodiles and birdlife — and
at the Yala park, guests can hope to spot the elusive leopard. Then out in the
sea, between December and March there is a chance to see blue whales, sperm
whales and spinner dolphins.
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