Step back in time at the Tamarind Hill hotel, a traditional and tranquil haven nestled by the Gin Ginga river on the outskirts of Galle – the southern tip of Sri Lanka.
The boutique residence is perfectly positioned to explore the area from whale watching to river safaris, and from the moonstone mines to the 17th century fort. But with a residence that offers pure relaxation in stunning surroundings you may be tempted to stay put.
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Rooms at Tamarind Hill hotel
Our room was opposite the main building, meaning we got to enjoy staring up at the grandeur of the main building which was an Admiral’s residence during the Dutch’s rule (staff are on hand to give you full a history lesson should you want it.) Bright while walls are contrasted with huge wooden shutters, exposed beams and ceiling fans with quirky touches from the past take your imagination to a bygone era.
The rooms have modern facilities think rainwater showers and flats screen TV alongside four poster beds draped in white curtains (extra beds and cots available for kids). The floors are mahogany with large chests and drawers and windows with shutters to peek out at the kaleidoscope of flora and fauna which surrounds the property.
Every room looks out onto the courtyard and there are a few steps down to the rooms and then again to the pool, but not too much to move a push chair down and staff are always on hand to help.
At night time for turn down, you’ll return to your room to find a selection of sweet treats to enjoy before bed with a kettle and selection of herbal teas to settle you into a relaxed sleep.
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Food at Tamarind Hill hotel
Picture this, breakfast on the veranda in the Sri Lankan sunshine as you watch monkeys play on the roof tops and in the trees. The perfect entertainment to start your day.
There’s a small outside bar by the pool shielded from the sun where you’ll want to relax in the afternoons for some shade as you look out over the pool and the palm trees.
You can choose from tempting traditional treats, Sri Lankan curries pack a powerful punch with incredible flavours, and seafood is their speciality. Should you want a taste from back home there is also a selection of Western dishes – but what really stands out here is the hospitality of the staff and the presentation of the food. It’s luxury on a whole new level.
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Swimming pool at Tamarind Hill hotel
The real gem in the Tamarind Hill’s armoury is the pool – enough to enjoy some length but also ideal for a dreamy lazy float. The water is flanked by an incredible array of plants and flowers, you’ll look up to see palm trees starring back at you, and pungent purple flowers around you. And of course the wildlife come too, so you’ll share the pool with some birds too.
The circular day beds let you cuddle up with a book and really relax. There’s also a spa at the hotel offering the standard treatments.
If you are after a bigger pool, sister hotel, Le Grand is just a 10 minute drive way and has a modern sleek design with views of the Galle Fort.
What to do when staying at Tamarind Hill hotel
You will be anything but lost for ideas in the Galle area – the old colonial town has a very different feel to the rest of the country. But you’ll want top at the Galle Fort look out into the ocean and look for turtles in the waves. You can soak up the history and see the impact of colonialization on the local area too and as the light fades in the evenings you’ll watch the stick fisherman. Whale watching is another option but keep an eye on the right seasons for this.
The hotel has its own jetty and access to the Gin Ginga river, the river safari is not to be missed, you’ll sail along the waters waving at locals, watching fisherman and see all manner of wildlife in shocking colours – it’s a natural paradise.
Nearby is a moonstone mine, where all of the traditional techniques are employed you’ll see the entire process from start to finish and be able to purchase items in the shop.
Prices at Tamarind Hill start from £77 per night for bed and breakfast, see www.asialeisure.lk/tamarindhill