by Lucas Raven
Anantara Peace Haven Resort in Tangalle, Sri Lanka, is a luxury international resort offering five-star comfort and facilities, including standout dining outlets. It enjoys a blissfully quiet location near Tangalle, on its own stretch of beach frequented by nesting turtles and the staff are some of the most welcoming on the island. A true haven where the sound of the ocean is louder than patrons’ chatter. The respect for Ceylonese traditions involves a traditional high-tea served with single estate brews from the highlands, and generous accompaniments of expected scones and artisanal jams. I’m just getting started.
Located on the outskirts of Tangalle, near Goyambokka, the resort’s 22 acres are diverse – there’s an elevated clifftop, a sandy beach and gardens sliced by a mangrove-fringed stream. The beach is a vital turtle nesting ground. It’s close to wildlife reserves too – both Yala (famous for leopards) and Udawalawe (best for elephants) can be visited on day trips, while Kalametiya and Bundala (better for migratory birds), are even closer. Goyambokka, a beach strip with simple restaurants frequented by locals, sits at the far western end of the bay, and offers seasonal swimming.
This is an attractive, highly styled resort. It’s three-storey buildings and pavilions are spread over a large area with the bulk of the rooms and restaurants surrounding a split-level swimming pool. The resort’s design incorporates local touches, such as a Bawa-styled entrance pavilion and the open spaces and clean lines typical of tropical modernist designs (another Bawa concept), despite the lavish spaces, there’s a feeling of warmth in every corner – this is quite hard to achieve for such a large property with a big name. It may be safe to say that Anantara Peace Haven has achieved the impossible. There are villas as well as rooms, and the villas feel exclusive from the main area and offer a more intimate experience for those who seek privacy above all.
Perhaps my favorite part of all, the farm to table experience. A well-thought lunch at the tree house within the resort’s rice paddies and vegetable garden. An interactive concept where I got to see and understand the source of my food, alongside with Anantara Peace Haven’s Chef de Cuisine, I was transported to a one of a kind, sensory, barefoot experience. I highly recommend it. The staff are very sharp and pay close attention to detail. The butlers stand out for their punctuality and dedication, service runs smoothly throughout. On the team are two outstanding naturalists offering resort walks and day trips to game reserves.
The facilities are first-class – a split-level swimming pool, a sizeable spa (with resident Ayurvedic doctor) and a fitness centre. There’s also a great kids’ club. Perfect for families and honeymooners alike.
You can thank me later.
