The Colony
Tangalle is the host of a truly unique hotel, The Colony. This small hotel has the feel of a hostel, without the dorm rooms and bustle of youthful backpackers. Four rooms with either king bed or two twins are found here. A small number, perhaps, until you realize that the hotel is actually a restored and expanded British-period bungalow overlooking a stretch of beach and the Indian Ocean. Guests have full access to the house, which includes a living area, a terrace, a full kitchen and a dining room. Breakfast is included, and lunch and dinner are also served daily using fresh food and produce purchased from local fishermen and farmers. In addition to relaxing by the beach, various towns and outdoor attractions such as the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary are within close distance. Given the small number of rooms here, it is important to call well in advance for a reservation.
The Colony
355 Mahawella Road
Tangalle
Sri Lanka
+94-47-224-2770
thecolonysrilanka.com
Amanwella
When traveling in a city that is as sparsely populated as Tangalle, it is ideal to simply relax, unwind and get away from it. Amanwelle, a luxurious resort hotel, offers guests just that option. The hotel has 30 suites, adorned with contemporary décor, that are part of a single building styled after the work of Geofrey Bawas, Sri Lanka's premier architect. Sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the hotel's coconut grove are offered from almost everywhere in the hotel, and plenty of terrace seating and lounging is available. A plunge pool is available to all guests, and food is served throughout the day. In fact, those interested in Sri Lanka cuisine are invited to spend an afternoon with the hotel's chef to learn to cook a meal of their own. Other activities offered by Amanwella include tropical nature walks and an exclusive fort and beach excursion that includes a free breakfast. For luxurious digs in Tangalle, Amanwella is a breed of its own.
Bodhi Mawatta, Wella Mawatha
Godellawela, Tangalle
Sri Lanka
+94-47-277-1333
amanresorts.com/amanwella/home.aspx
The Beach House
Another house that is located a little farther away from the Tangalle city center is The Beach House. This five-room retreat hotel relishes its ability to cloak guests in the natural, tropical surroundings of southern Sri Lanka. Overlooking a nearby lagoon, some of Tangalle's best beaches and picturesque gardens, it's easy to lose oneself in thought and relaxation here. That's likely what brought American artist Douglas Johnson here occasionally, he being the hotel's unofficial celebrity sponsor. A regular staff of four caters to all guests, so you won't have to worry about a thing. If the surrounding views and the ocean at your doorstep aren't enough, the staff will help arrange day trips to nearby attractions such as the game reserve, the Mulkirigala stone temple and nearby beaches, towns or cities.
The Beach House
Seenimodera Beach
Tangalle
Sri Lanka
+94-91-438-0275
thesunhouse.com/Beachhouse/beachhouse.html
Article Written By Mark Orwell
In the summer of 2003, Mark Orwell began his career as a freelance writer focusing on popular culture, music, and film. He continues to write on a broad array of topics from Miami, Florida. His work has been available in the United States, the Caribbean, and South Africa.
