Ulagalla

Ulagalla is a luxurious holiday retreat set amidst 58 acres of lush woodland, paddy fields and the Ulagalla Reservoir in the rural village of Tirappane near Anuradhapura. It was once the abode of a village chieftain. The original walawwa (ancestral mansion), which was built in 1885, still remains and has been renovated maintaining its traditional architectural features, and now houses the resort’s reception area. Accommodation is in luxurious chalets scattered across the 58 acre estate and overlooking paddy fields and reservoirs. Ulagalla Resort follows strict ecofriendly policies and runs a solar energy farm

Accomodation

All 30 suites at Amanwella are identical in layout and design and fall into two categories – the Pool Suites and the Pool Ocean Suites, based on their location and views. Suites are contemporary in design with terrazzo floors and soothing beige, cream and sandy tones that reflect the beach setting. Suite interiors consist of a combined sleeping and living room furnished with a king-sized bed, writing desk, armchair and credenza. Sliding screens divide this area from the open-plan bathroom which features a freestanding bathtub, twin vanities, dressing area, h/w shower and toilet. The floor -to-ceiling glass and latticed panels form two sides of the dwelling – one opening onto a private walled-in courtyard with plunge pool (6×4 metres in size) and the other to an outdoor terrace, complete with dining table, chairs and a double sun lounge. Suites are linked by pathways: most are within comfortable walking distance, and a small resort vehicle is available for transport to the more elevated levels. Pool Suites Situated mostly on the hillside, the Pool Suites enjoy varying views of the coconut grove and ocean. Here three sets of suites share an outdoor terrace and connecting doors. These are ideal for families or couples traveling together. Ocean Pool Suites Ocean Pool Suites are situated on the lower levels of the hill and enjoy uninterrupted views of the coconut grove and beach. Most are freestanding, although two sets share an outdoor terrace and connecting door.

Facilities

Swimming pool – Bicycle hire – Cable TV – DVD library – Internet – Gym – Spa – Restaurant – Licensed bar Room service – Laundry service – Wheelchair access – Child friendly – Eco friendly – Bird Watching

Traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and a mix of international cuisine is served here prepared with fresh vegetables and rice from their own estate. You can choose to have your meals at Ulagalla’s fine dining restaurant, in the gardens under a starlit sky; on the terrace overlooking the reservoir or in your own chalet. Ulagalla has a well -stocked underground wine cellar. The in-house spa specialises in rejuvenating massages and treatments. Other resort faciliti es include a 30-metre swimming pool by the main walawwa, fitness centre, indoor games, billiards, laundry service and wheelchair access. Ulagalla Resort welcomes families with children and has special children’s menus, baby cots and high chairs, and babysitting service with prior notice. Experiences include village bicycle rides, full -moon day (poya) visit to the Veheragalla Buddhist temple for meditation, yoga, Sri Lankan cookery classes, jungle kayaking, guided nature trails and bird watching accompanied by the in-house naturalist; horse riding (the resort has its own riding stables) and kite making for kids.