Wallawwa
Near Colombo, Colombo & around, Sri Lanka
Reviewed by
Kate Parsons
Whether you are disembarking from a long flight or preparing to jet off, an ice-cold drink, a friendly face and a restful room seem heaven-sent. But Wallawwa’s small spa, excellent chef, gorgeous shaded pool and 200 year old exotic gardens make it the kind of place you want to linger longer in. In the 18 spacious and comfy rooms, dark woods offset muted colours in cream, blue and green, and fresh flowers waft their scent throughout.
Once a country estate belonging to the head chieftain of Galle, history buffs will love the hotel’s fascinating heritage; tired bodies will luxuriate in the comfy beds. It's beautifully quiet and just 20 minutes from the airport – perfect for a couple of days' gentle acclimatisation. Equally, it’s an ideal base for exploring Colombo’s shops, museums and nearby golf courses (40-60 minutes away). Best of all, the staff are stand-out – you get to know them by name and it feels like being with family. Wallawwa is a great hotel by any standards – not just a great stopover on your way in or out of Sri Lanka.
Once a country estate belonging to the head chieftain of Galle, history buffs will love the hotel’s fascinating heritage; tired bodies will luxuriate in the comfy beds. It's beautifully quiet and just 20 minutes from the airport – perfect for a couple of days' gentle acclimatisation. Equally, it’s an ideal base for exploring Colombo’s shops, museums and nearby golf courses (40-60 minutes away). Best of all, the staff are stand-out – you get to know them by name and it feels like being with family. Wallawwa is a great hotel by any standards – not just a great stopover on your way in or out of Sri Lanka.
Highs
- Wondrously spacious rooms decorated in a contemporary colonial style; outside you'll find perfectly manicured gardens with lush planting
- Just 20 minutes from the airport – ideal for pre- or post-flight stopovers (and it's worth staying longer if you can)
- Truly excellent service; staff have been trained in some of the best hotels in Sri Lanka and it shows
- A refreshingly varied menu combining Sri Lankan curries plus adventurous western styles, using produce from their own herb, fruit, vegetable and spice garden
- On-site spa with an excellent masseuse and wellness menu (a yoga shala is planned in the grounds too)
Lows
- You're a fair way out of Colombo and need to take a taxi to other restaurants and shops
- Rooms are on the pricey side, but rates include breakfast, afternoon tea and a 5pm daily social hour; you'll leave here feeling totally spoilt and refreshed
- You’re in the jungle so expect creepy crawlies, keep your doors and windows closed
Best time to go
Any time of year – this hotel is open all year and is an ideal place to stop off on your way in or out of the country. A great base if you want to explore Colombo but not stay right in the city.
Our top tips
If this is your first stop after a long-haul flight, be sure to book a 40-minute head and neck massage – you get 15% off by booking through i-escape. It's a refreshing way to beat the jet lag and soothe yourself into an easy sleep. Or try the complimentary yoga session to unwind and stretch out.