Cover Amanwella in Sri Lanka is heavily inspired by Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa’s style of tropical modernism (Photo: Instagram / @amanwella)
Amanwella in Sri Lanka is heavily inspired by Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa’s style of tropical modernism (Photo: Instagram / @amanwella)
1 / 1
At the coastal paradise of Amanwella in Sri Lanka, serene architecture, lush surroundings and unforgettable adventures await
Stillness descends the moment you step onto Amanwella’s pink-gravelled roundabout. Perhaps it’s the perfect lines carved into negative spaces by the minimalist columns lining the square, or the soft hush of the waves in the distance, but one is immediately embraced by a feeling of zen in this secluded alcove of Tangalle, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The kind manager welcomes you with a traditional ritual of chewing a betel leaf and wrapping your wrists with a blessed string as part of a Buddhist ritual for protection. A peacock caws from the tiled roof.
Aman, the luxury hospitality group behind some of the world’s most iconic resorts, is renowned for its properties’ stark architecture that somehow still blends seamlessly into its lush environs, and Amanwella, set on 60 acres of coconut groves, is no exception. Heavily inspired by celebrated Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa’s style of tropical modernism, local materials are used to create open-air spaces to allow for full immersion into its lush surroundings.
Also read: 7 well-loved hiking apps to explore the world’s most beautiful hiking trails
Above Indoor and outdoor spaces merge into one another harmoniously at Amanwella (Photo: Instagram / @amanwella)
Indoor and outdoor spaces merge into one another harmoniously at Amanwella (Photo: Instagram / @amanwella)
1 / 1
Indoor and outdoor spaces flow into one another; one moment you’re gliding through the cosy, sunken bar where the daily afternoon tea is also served, the next you’re at the precipice looking down at the 50m infinity pool set against the dramatic view of sky-grazing palm trees that line its pristine shores. This view is all the decoration the property needs, which is why most rooms face the ocean. Long balconies have sliding wooden shutters and glass doors that can be fully opened to draw the salty air, while each one of the 27 villas boasts small plunge pools that provide a welcome respite from the afternoon heat.
Then again, guests spend most afternoons on the beach anyway, located just steps from Amanwella’s intimate beach restaurant, where one could sip coconut and indulge in local delicacies while waves are lapping just meters from your table. You can find a mix of local and international dishes on the menu, even platters dedicated to wellness, but the vibrant flavours of its Sri Lankan dishes are not to be missed. From fragrant rice and curry dishes to freshly grilled prawns, every meal deserves to be an event in itself. I was so enamoured with the tangy watermelon salad that the chef kindly shared the recipe with me on my last day.
As can be expected of all Aman properties, service is incredibly attentive yet discreet. Your water preference is noted from the first order, so it need never be repeated; towels and napkins are folded or replaced moments after you leave your spot as if by magic; and not once do you have to share your room number or sign a bill. It’s apparent that every guest’s preferences are noted to anticipate their needs. Luxury at Aman is having your glasses of ice water refilled so often, you never have to lift your arm to ask.
Above Guests at Amanwella can go on safari to Udawalawe National Park to spot elephants in the wild (Photo: Instagram / @amanwella)
Guests at Amanwella can go on safari to Udawalawe National Park to spot elephants in the wild (Photo: Instagram / @amanwella)
1 / 1
While the resort may lack a traditional gym or hammam, Amanwella makes up for it in spades through other nourishing activities for the body and soul. On the property, sunrise yoga on the beach amongst the coconut trees was enough to convert a snooze-lover like myself, while the signature facial using Aman Essentials skincare and Ayurvedic traditions allows you to emerge glowing from the inside out. Meanwhile, the plethora of excursions on offer is sure to satisfy the adventurer itching to explore every inch the island has to offer, from whale watching to helicopter rides to autorickshaw tours of the town. We went in search of elephants on a morning safari into Udawalawe National Park before the jeep parked cliffside where a dreamy picnic breakfast was being served as waves crashed against the rocks below. The next day, we were transported to the lush Mawella lagoon, where a floating, cushioned lounge took us around to admire the pelicans, fruit bats and monkeys dotting the surrounding trees as we sipped our cocktails. At sunset, hundreds of birds soared above us, swirling dramatically in the air—a sight worthy of a scene in a Hollywood film—creating a cherished memory that will not soon be forgotten.
That evening, we were escorted to a private beach dinner with local musicians strumming gently in the background, and we were served a seafood feast. Fireflies mingled with the stars above our heads as we vowed to return to this welcoming island, boasting diverse cultures and species living together harmoniously. Lulled into a relaxed trance by the magical day, there was nothing left to do but succumb to the overwhelming sense of peace.
Rosana (Rosie) is the former Fashion Director for Tatler Asia. Formerly located in Hong Kong, Rosie now lives in London, UK.
