A 300-room beachfront Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa opened on a 145-acre former coconut plantation on the southern coastline of Sri Lanka. Nestled beside the Indian Ocean and framed by swaying king coconut trees, the resort doubles as a quiet retreat or spirited getaway, with some of the world’s most captivating wildlife and exotic birds in nearby national parks.
The island nation boasts a colourful heritage, and its southern coast caters to leisurely exploration with historic temples, quaint fishing villages and secluded beaches. Showcasing the essence of the tropical setting is the resort’s open-air lobby – made of natural materials and dotted with local handicrafts.
Beginning at 48 square metres, the guestrooms feature louvered shutters and polished wooden floors that lead to balconies suited for admiring the resort’s lush garden – where peacocks can be spotted roaming the grounds – or ocean vista. Handwoven rugs and ocean blue-coloured panels complement the modern luxury style, and spacious bathrooms are accessorised with stone-clad bathtubs and rain showers.
Each of the 21 suites, ranging in size from 96 to 240 square metres, provides the ultimate in privacy and butler service. Thoughtfully designed with a balcony and oversized rattan furniture to lounge in, the interiors reflect the island’s beauty through vibrant colours and look out to the emerald green hues of the fairways or Indian Ocean. All guests can stay connected with free Wi-Fi.
With pleasant temperatures most months of the year, outdoor experiences along nature trails are ideal as is taking up one of the resort’s many recreational pursuits, including beach volleyball, mountain biking and jogging. Enhancing the already extensive list of resort activities is an on-site Health Club offering state-of-the-art fitness facilities, yoga classes and stretching.
Providing a first-hand window into the local culture, Kadamandiya Village enables guests to learn about the artistry of rural craftsmen that keep the traditions of Sri Lanka alive. Five traditional studio huts house artisan weavers, sculptors, painters and potters. Their hand-crafted creations are available for purchase in the village to support the artists.
In the evening, Kadamandiya Village is transformed to stage scheduled dance, music and Angampora – Sri Lanka’s indigenous martial art – performances amid servings of local cuisine and refreshments.
