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An Enchanting River’s Edge

Jul 17 2013.

“A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is Earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature." The words of Henry David Thoreau comes to life approximately 88kms from Colombo in a fishing hamlet called Pathegama in Balapitiya.

‘Roman Lake Balapitya’ is reflected on the shimmering waters adding to the ethereal and tranquil atmosphere of the glistening ‘Madhu Ganga’ banks that has inspired visitors for years.

It is located a kilometer from the Pathegama Railway Station and 2 kms from Madhu Ganga and the Balapitiya city centre.

We were greeted with a luscious ‘Kirala’ juice when we arrived on a warm Saturday afternoon and were shown to our large lake view room of simple yet classy interior.

The rooms are named after Roman emperors Trajan, Commodus, Augustus, Aurelius, Antoninus, Claudius, Tiberius and Julius. We stayed at ‘Julius’ , which was equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a personal safe and a wardrobe.

The en suite bathroom comes with shower facilities and authentic amenities.

What stood out the most were the moments of tranquility; sitting by the lake on the sun dappled terrace and serene swimming pool, enjoying a rich rice and curry.

Indulgences at Roman Lake Balapitya

The team headed by Chef Mangala served us a spectacular and flavourful lunch consisting of rice accompanied by Brinjal Moju, Banana Blossom, Tempered Potatoes, Bean Curry, Dhal Curry, Gotukola Sambol, Prawns, Pork Stew and a Deep Fried ‘Lake’ Fish.

A dip in the pool overlooking the glistening river is a must when you visit the hotel. The serene pool epitomises romance and gives you that feeling of the break you yearned for in a magical weekend away.

I’m more of a dinner person, and I like to dine like a queen tucked away from the usual setup, which the hotel voluntarily arranged. A candlelit table for two was setup on the pier connecting the hotel and river. Ah bliss!

Along came a creamy Pumpkin Soup followed by a delectable ‘must try’ at the hotel, a rack of lamb complemented by a juicy ratatouille and mint sauce. Dinner concluded with a mouthwatering yet simple chocolate mousse.

With the unparalleled location set on the banks of Madu Ganga, it is really impossible to be bored here. I was about to embark on my first boat ride in Sri Lanka, thanks to the friendly staff who arranged a boat ride across the Madhu Ganga waters and its islands.

‘Madhu Ganga’ is a story all by itself; the experience will be unfolded over the next few weeks. For now this was the highlight of that boat ride.

The much anticipated fish spa treatment.

For Honeymooners:

The honeymoon suite is equipped with a private Jacuzzi and complimentary cake and fruit basket

Romantic indulgences prepared by the chef

A romantically lit up balcony

Must Trys

The pumpkin Soup

The lamb rack with mint sauce and ratatouille

Chocolate Mousse and Panacotta

To Enjoy together:

Boat Ride

Dip in the pool

Candlelit al fresco dinner on the pier

It was really easy to spend a whole day just lounging by the pool glaring at the river. Take an afternoon walk while you build up an appetite for a candlelit al fresco. The softly lit pool area can make your worries drift away.