A fusion of tropical modernism and colonial charm, the recently renovated Avani Kalutara is a sprawling property that effortlessly embodies R&R (rest and rejuvenation) with plenty of adventures to keep you busy! Along with the refurbishment, Avani Kalutara also introduced revamped suites, dining experiences at the Mangroves Restaurant, and the Ganga Ballroom with stunning 360-degree views, and an upgraded pool. The hotel is once again open to the locals for the month of April, and there’s no better time to head over than this festive season! 

Tucked away behind Anantara Kalutara, enveloped by the Indian Ocean and the Kalu river, both hotels were designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, whose design ethos comprised tastefully blending the building with its surrounds. Avani too seamlessly incorporates the island’s distinctive features into its design. 

Avani Kalutara Resort comprises 105 rooms and suites, a swimming pool, spa services in-resort, water sports centre, fishing on the lagoon, archery and rifle shooting, fish feed golfing on the lagoon, kids activities, a newly refurbished ballroom and so much more! 

Rooms and Suites
The refurbished rooms at Avani are light and airy, the space is minimalistic and uncluttered; affording views of the ocean or lagoon from the sizeable balcony depending on the room category you pick. Three new room categories were introduced when the property was refurbished, including two new Avani Ocean View Pool Suites, four Avani Ocean View Suites and twelve Avani Ocean Deluxe Rooms. The Avani Ocean View Pool Suite has its own private plunge pool, 360-degree views of the tropical gardens, Indian Ocean and lagoon. The interiors are light, airy and spacious with whitewashed furnishings, premium bedding and a bathtub that overlooks the private pool area.  The Avani Ocean View Suites feature a bar area, lounge area and two balconies with views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean. More space, light-coloured furnishings, fittings and spaces for family time make it the perfect home away from home. The Deluxe Ocean View Rooms have also been upgraded to match the contemporary vibe of the suites, with the inclusion of thoughtful personal touches like AvaniFIT yoga mats, dumbbells and upon request, a Sony PlayStation! 

Dining
The revamped dining experience at Avani, meant that not only were the interiors upgraded, but the menu too featured a plethora of delicious cuisine. Mangroves Restaurant, the resort’s all-day dining venue offers guests themed international cuisine nights, a lavish buffet spread and à la carte menus. Guests also have the opportunity to enjoy meals al fresco overlooking the pool. Bound to be a memorable dining experience is their recently introduced Miracle Dining, where guests ‘can enjoy the island’s seafood bounty and fine meats, cooked precisely to their liking by a private chef by the beach – or even by their suite’. 

The resort has added two new bars to their repertoire; Karadiya Bar, a new outdoor lounge that also includes large hanging chairs that guests can sit in while enjoying and drink and taking in the gorgeous sunsets, and Miridiya Bar, which offers views of the lagoon.

Things to Do
If you are a guest at Avani, you’re unlikely to find yourself bored. You can indulge in a number of exciting activities that are made available to you or even wind down at the Anantara Spa that is accessible to all guests at Avani. The Spa is dedicated to Ayurvedic wellness and offers massages, scrubs and wellness packages. However, among the most exciting services offered is their brand new Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio by Bastian Gonzalez, a first in the country. French chiropodist Bertrand Li, trained by Bastien himself, has been appointed as the Anantara Spa Manager. Spa opening times may vary due to current safety regulations.

If you want to get your feet wet, you will be spoilt for choice with the many water sports activities on offer! But should you prefer not to, there are just as many activities for you to partake in on dry land, including cycling and golfing.

Safety
The safety of the guests is of utmost priority at Avani Kalutara. From the moment of arrival to the course of the stay, the hotel ensured that all safety protocols are in place. Their restaurants too had sanitisers that were easily accessible, offering guests gloves they could use when serving themselves at the buffet. Despite the temperature checks and protocols during check-in, they made sure that we were comfortable and weren’t inconvenienced in any way. The procedures were all done within a minimal timeframe, and we were soon led to our rooms after enjoying a welcome drink.

Overall
Avani Kalutara is an attractive resort with a multitude of things to see and do. The serene atmosphere paired with the amenities and the excellent staff - who are friendly and helpful without being intrusive- will ensure you have the best time.

Photo Credit: Avani Kalutara