Have you ever experienced luxury from two eras simultaneously? Old Sri Lankan times blended with splendid modern comfort? You’re about to find out how.
A ‘Walawwa’ is defined as a colonial manor house built by the native headmen of a village in the early years. The aristocrats of the village often met for a feast or an occasional chat and it is believed that the luxuries were often experienced with good food and splendid comfort at the ‘Walawwa’.
This time around I wanted to immerse myself in history and the finer things in life complemented by the tranquility and lush greenery in a village known as ‘Aranwella’ located in Beliatta, Tangalle.
Driving through the entrance of ‘Maya Tangalle’ instantly brought in a sense of nostalgia from the old Sinhalese movies and books that talked about the events that unfolded at the ‘Walawwa’. I felt like I was being whisked back to an era of ancient luxury.
After a 4 hour journey from Colombo , we were greeted with an authentic sweet and sour ‘Weralu’ drink (plucked from their own garden) upon our arrival. It was undoubtedly a breath of fresh air. Yum!
The Aranwella Walawwa was a dilapidated old Colonial bungalow dating back to the late 19th to early 20th century. The architecture relatesto that era, with Dutch and British influences and was originally owned by an aristocratic family that had presided over the village.
The extremely talented interior designer Niki Fairchild had discovered the property in 2004 and has restored it with modern and stylish furnishing, tying in perfectly with the ancient architecture.
Crammed with artistic attractions are 5 charming and spacious rooms (Amba, Thekka, Ahala, Kohomba,Kumbuk, named after the trees in the garden) with three rooms in the new wing and two rooms in the old wing respectively.
They all have en suite bathrooms with rain showers and are built around the pristine swimming pool.
The living room in the old house opens to a veranda with a large collection of timeless classics and contemporary literature. If you’re in the mood for a good old fashioned British comedy, you could grab one from the versatile DVD collection or you could simply pick a board game for some quirky fun.
What I found quite amazing is that certain furniture from the old times have been preserved to ensure the feeling of the traditional ‘Walawwa’ remains during your stay at the hotel.
Enveloping the house is a luscious 2-acre garden, home to melodious armies of exotic birds, large trees and a well-trimmed lawn, and this setting enticed me to just grab a book and perch myself on the bench outside (remnant of the old house).
The enchanting sea of paddy fields rolling out beyond its emerald lawns is something you could bask in the whole day while lounging on the steel seats placed nearby.
The colours change chameleon-like according to the season, and is a stunning backdrop to the ’hammock’ and ‘swing’ built in the garden.
Parked out in the garden were 2 bicycles you could use to peddle around this sleepy little village, or take a tuk-tuk to the Tangalle beach, 8km away.
The relaxing tranquil atmosphere would be perfect for some impeccable pampering at Maya. The hotel will arrange a massage for you on request. That’s not all, if you’d like to step out of the property and visit the sandy beaches, safaris or cultural sights, this can be arranged too.
Time for Maya Indulgences!
The friendly team headed by Perera, the manager of the property, ensured we spent a luxurious and serene vacation. We were invited to dine by the swimming pool overlooking an open pavilion with a 12 seater dining table and lounging sofas.
The setting couldn’t get any better than with the cool breeze flowing across the property encompassed with the candle-lit ambiance.
Along came a traditional rice and curry for dinner with an unending number of delectable accompaniments including Breadfruit, Chicken, Prawns, Gotukola & Pol Sambol, Brinjals, Okra, Dhal, Banana Blossom and of course, crunchy Papadam.
According to Perera, alfresco meals can be arranged anytime and anywhere in the property.
The cold breeze never stopped! It was a refreshing feeling away from the bustle in the city.
After a delicious English breakfast, we had a brief chat with chef Dharshana, an expert in authentic Sri Lankan & Western cuisine, who looked rather enthusiastic about presenting his signature dishes.
Must Trys
Watermelon and feta cheese salad
Thai grilled chicken leg with roasted butternut and sweet chilli sauce
Pan fried ‘para’ fish with egg & bell pepper rice topped with homemade garlic mayonnaise
Roasted bell pepper, tomato & feta cheese with basil sauce
Maya Kulfi
The ‘Maya’ team strives to maintain the calm and quiet atmosphere to ensure guests bask in the true meaning of a serene vacation.
To Enjoy Together
A long romantic walk
Alfresco dining in the garden or by the pool
Dip in the pool
Endless views of the luscious emerald green paddy field
The location was perfect to simply stroll in the garden and appreciate the calm and natural atmosphere bathed in the backdrop of old Sri Lankan times.
How to book
T: 94 (0) 47 567 9025 / 6
By Keshiya Leitch
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