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Far from the crowds of the Cultural Triangle's main sights, Ulagalla has an appealing sense of tranquility. A delight for romantics, wildlife aficionados and families, it's the jewel in this homegrown hotel group's crown — and a deserving one at that. A beautifully restored historic manor house sits within 58 acres of verdant grounds — some still cultivated for rice — and guests are invited to unwind at this central hub throughout the day. Dotted around the paddy fields are 25 lavish villas, each of which boasts its own private pool, terrace and sitting room. Think draped four-poster beds, wooden beamed ceilings, cream and green textiles and black-and-white sketches of animals and rural scenes adorning white walls. Bathrooms are indulgent, with big rain showers; Deluxe Pool Villas have free-standing tubs.
It’s tempting to simply hide away in your own little slice of the jungle, but there’s plenty to explore on the hotel’s bicycles, too. Make for the spa, where pampering massages await, or hit the gym and the huge — though generally very quiet — main swimming pool. Ulagalla takes its wildlife efforts seriously, and the Elephant Conservation Centre is fascinating, filled with objects, photos and information about the animals which plod through the resort’s grounds. Don’t miss speaking to the team about their work, or signing little ones up to the Junior Ranger programme. Activity highlights include horse riding, village bicycle tours and 4WD rides out to dazzling Nachchaduwa Tank for splendid sunset picnics. Venture further afield to the sacred sites of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and Dambulla, or on safari to Kaudulla and Minneriya. In short, you can be as busy or as relaxed as you like at Ulagalla.
Round off fantastic days with traditional rice and curry feasts at Kamatha, a traditional clay-floored restaurant set amidst the paddies, or sip gin & tonics in the main building before dinner at Liyawela.
A classic Sri Lankan escape with a warm team and a well-deserved reputation with guests who return again and again.
Romantic Break
Wildlife Area
Active Holiday
Restaurant
Riding
Other Activities
Sights nearby
Historic
Eco
Learning
Cycling
Outstanding location
Lakeside
Private Pool
Gourmet
Remote
Intimate
Quiet
Rooms with balcony/terrace
Good wine list
Full of character
Archery
Trekking
Barefoot Luxury
Sit-out Terrace
Landmark
Child friendly
Gym
Watersports
Chic
Kayaking
Boutique
Fishing
Great walks
Spa
Hills & mountains
Secluded setting
Wellbeing
Charming
Luxury
Air conditioning
Birdwatching
Romantic
Views
Rooms
25 rooms in this hotelRestaurant
Savour traditional cooking at Kamatha, surrounded by paddies, or dine on Sri Lankan and western cuisine at LiyaWela RestaurantGarden
The hotel has well-tended gardens as well as farmed paddy fields and sections of protected forest for wildlifeSwimming Pool
Enormous 30 m pool in front of the restaurant, and private plunge pools in each cabinPrivate Pool
All villas come with a private poolBath robes
Bar
Parking
Bicycles available
Rooms with balcony/terrace
Private chef / butler
Airport transfer
Outdoor dining
Safe
Sauna/Steam
Cots available
Massage
No pets
Private dining room
Billiard/pool table
Sit-out Terrace
Good wine list
24 Hour room service
Room service
Sitting Room
Child friendly
Gym
Spa
Suites
Private villas
Hot Tub
Concierge
Satellite / Cable TV
Air conditioning
Wifi
Wildlife Area
Riding
Other Activities
Sights nearby
Learning
Cycling
Archery
Trekking
Climbing
Watersports
Kayaking
Fishing
Great walks
Birdwatching
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