Set amidst a scenic backdrop of a verdant jungle, a soaring mountain and the Siyambalawewa lake which reflects nature in all its glory is the Jetwing Lake, one of the newest resorts to open its doors in Dambulla. One of the cornerstones that forms the cultural triangle Dambulla is a magnet for visiting tourists due to its close proximity to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and of course Sigiriya which is virtually on the doorstep of Dambulla. 

Jetwing Lake is a star class resort which combines contemporary architecture with nature. Spread over 13 acres, the hotel exudes a calm atmosphere. The rooms of the hotel all offer expansive views of the lake and the jungle beyond. The large balconies of each room offer the perfect opportunity to relax and watch nature put on a beautiful performance with the birds aplenty while trees sway to the hypnotic rhythms of the breezes. 

The hotel has 78 deluxe rooms, 12 super deluxe rooms and 4 suites. All the rooms have spacious private balconies. The rooms are tastefully furnished with interiors that complement the design ethos of the hotel. Earthy colours have been used throughout which reflect the hotels closeness to its natural habitat. The rooms are of generous proportions with equally spacious bathrooms. It is to the hotel's credit that all 98 rooms have wheelchair access, probably the first of its kind in the island. The rooms are all equipped with all modern conveniences befitting a star class hotel. The most luxurious aspect of the room that I personally loved was the large king sized bed that offered me an insomniac, a night of uninterrupted sleep. I was only awoken by the melodious chirping of a bird that had decided to land on my balcony. 

The dining options at Jetwing Lake are varied. There is the main restaurant which opens out to the large garden area. This restaurant serves both a la carte and buffet meals. The cuisine ranges from local to international fare. Local produce is used in abundance and the flavours are fresh, and exciting. The hotel also has its own authentic Chinese restaurant which offers cuisine representative of most regions of China. The food at this restaurant is exceptionally good and the chef should take a bow for the fare he created. The textures and flavours were second to none and combined they played a grand symphony on our tastebuds. Situated on the upper floor of the hotel the Chinese restaurant is adjacent to the bar which allows guests to have a quiet drink soaking up the atmosphere. For those wish to dine in private or celebrate a special occasion under the stars, the hotel will pull out the stops and arrange a private dining experience by the lake. 

The hotel also has a fully fledged spa which offers a vast selection of ayurvedic and balinese massages. Using a great combination of luxury oils and treatments ranging from herbal wraps, oil treatmens and much more, the masseurs are adept in providing the best treatments. There is also an ayurvedic doctor who can be consulted and will design a therapeutic programe to suit your needs. For those who are keen to maintain their fitness even while on holiday, the fully equipped gym will help you maintain your fitness routine while aiding you you get rid the excess calories consumed at the hotels' restaurants! 

Another winner at the hotel is the swimming pool which is 71 meters long and faces the lake and mountains. Immerse yourself in the temperate waters of the pool just before sunset and marvel at the spectacular views as mother nature puts on one of her most impressive shows with the sky changing colour from blue to purple to orange and various hues in between, as the setting sun creates a kaleidoscope of colours. 

The Lake Dambulla also boasts a conference hall. This is perfect for companies that wish to combine a weekend getaway coupled with a training or motivational course. The hotel also has its own naturalist who is will help identify both endemic and migratory birds along with with animals that venture to the banks of the lake. The hotel also organises various tours to the safari parks close by and other cultural sites. 

For a weekend retreat, a midweek getaway or a special celebratory treat, Jetwing Lake has all the essentials and more to ensure you have a memorable time at this retreat ensconced by nature.