Amanwella, Galle, Sri Lanka

Amanwella is situated amidst a mature coconut grove fronting a crescent shaped beach close to the village of Tangalle in southern Sri Lanka. The resort derives its name by combining the words, aman, or “peace” in Sanskrit, and wella, the Sinhalese name for beach. All 30 suites of this beachfront resort feature their own private plunge pool and terrace.

The resort is accessed via a gravel road that opens onto a pebbled courtyard and entrance pavilion. An ascending colonnade leads to the public areas. The reception is on the left while to the right are two grassed courtyards, separated by the Library and a reflecting pool. Beyond one courtyard is the Lounge and Bar and adjacent to the other is the Restaurant. Elements drawn from Sri Lanka's most notable modern architect, Geoffrey Bawa, have been combined with use of traditional materials such as old Sri Lankan roof tiles and hand-hewn stone to create a retreat along the south coast's rugged terrain.

Steps lead to the unique, rectangular 45-metre infinity swimming pool. Overlooking the pool are two large sun terraces with sun loungers. Located in the coconut grove metres from the sea, is the Beach Club, an open pavilion with a wooden deck ideal for lounging and light, informal dining.

Suites, linked by pathways, are interspersed along the hillside to the west of the public areas. Most are within comfortable walking distance and a small resort vehicle is available for transport to the more elevated levels. There are sweeping views of the ocean and the beach, flanked by two rocky headlands.

All 30 suites are identical in layout and design and fall into two categories based on their location and views. The suites are contemporary in design yet blend local materials and styles like the distinctive terracotta roof tiles and hand-hewn stone. The suites open on both sides to let in cooling sea breezes.

Suites: Situated mostly on the hillside, the suites enjoy varying views of the coconut grove and ocean. Floor-to-ceiling glass and latticed panels form two sides of the dwelling – one opening onto a private walled-in entry courtyard and plunge pool, with the terrace side opposite affording open views. The private pool measures six by four metres and the courtyard features a banquette for lounging and dining. Timber sliding doors and panels reveal the interior spaces.

There is a combined sleeping and living room with a king-size bed, writing desk, armchair with foot-stool and a credenza featuring a personal bar with refreshments. Sliding screens divide this area from the open-plan bathroom featuring a freestanding bathtub, twin vanities, dressing area, shower and toilet. Access to the spacious terrace is again via sliding doors from the living areas and the bathroom. The terrace includes a dining table with two chairs and a double sun lounge. Terrazzo floors are finished in muted, sandy tones that reflect the beach setting. Three sets of suites share a connecting door on the terrace. These are ideal for families or couples travelling together.

Ocean Suites: Ocean suites are situated on the lower levels of the hill and enjoy uninterrupted views of the coconut grove and beach. Most are free-standing, although four sets of suites share a connecting door on the terrace. These are ideal for families or couples travelling together.

The Restaurant is located within the cluster of public buildings at the southern end of the resort and is open for breakfast and dinner. Perched eight metres above sea level, it offers stunning views across the pool towards the coconut grove and beach. Table seating is on two elevated levels and outdoor seating is available on another lower level. Inside the restaurant, doors open onto an internal grassed courtyard landscaped with frangipani trees and reflecting pools. The cuisine is Asian and Mediterranean with an emphasis on local seafood from the Indian Ocean.

Adjacent to the Restaurant is the Lounge and Bar which also enjoys panoramic views. Here drinks and light lunches are served along with exotic sundowners. A selection of cigars and post-prandial drinks is also available until late.

The Terrace adjacent to the swimming pool is ideal for alfresco dining. During the day, simple lunches as well as fresh young coconuts and local fruit are served. In the evening guests can dine on antipasti and home-style dishes while relaxing on the day beds and bolsters.

Located close to the beachfront amidst coconut trees and away from the main building, the Beach Club provides an alternative venue for lunch and private dinners. The menu includes simple Asian salads, Mediterranean classics using the local seafood, and granitas and freshly-churned ice-cream. Seafood is cooked over a coconut charcoal barbeque and served with garden fresh salads and local relishes.