Natural charm One of the newest resorts to grace the Kalutara peninsula, Anantara Kalutara Resort unveils untouched natural wonders with plenty of adventure and culture just around the corner 22 worldtravellermagazine.com
WORLD TRAVELLER X ANANTARA KALUTARA RESORT Private cabanas on the beach Take some time to relfect by the Kalu Ganga River Unwind with an Ayurvedic therapy Royal Bawa Suite Warm Sri Lankan hospitality welcomes you the moment you set foot on this beautiful property. Whether it’s a traditional chanting ceremony or a simple friendly smile that greets you, you’ll be instantly immersed in the country’s vibrant way of life. Tucked away on a peninsula between the Indian Ocean and Kalu Ganga River, the tropical retreat feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the capital, yet by the clock it’s just an hour’s drive. With towering coconut palms, lush botanical gardens and an alluring mix of serene lagoons and white-sandy beaches, the resort hits every holiday mark. But what immediately draws you in is its dramatic scale and unique architecture that smoothly blends sunlit, breezy structures with nature – a signature style that’s inspired by the vision of the late Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect. Boasting stunning vistas that serve as a reminder of being in a distinctly exotic destination, the resort has 141 luxury guest rooms, suites and pool villas – each with private balconies offering views of the lush greenery, peaceful lagoon or rolling ocean. For a memorable stay, request the Royal Bawa Suite, which pays homage to Bawa’s unique aesthetic with indigenous artworks and plush textiles highlighting his trademark tropical modernism. Pause to reflect with a traditional high tea served on the Upper Deck, from which you can admire stunning views of the Kalu River and Indian Ocean. Get a slice of the action by zip-lining across the lagoon, testing your skills at abseiling, or rock climbing at Glider Adventure Tower. If you prefer to slow down the pace, however, the resort’s serene setting lends itself well to yoga and meditation. Head to Anantara Spa where, after a consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor, you can experience Royal Bawa Suite therapies such as Shirodhara, which involves gently pouring liquids over the forehead to lull you into a deep state of relaxation and help restore the flow of energy in the body. For authentic Thai and Indian delights, head to Spice Traders, which is a treat for the senses with its array of authentic Asian flavours. Or, you can soak up some more of the Sri Lankan culture by tasting signature dishes featuring fresh local ingredients, such as blue mussels, spiny lobster and king prawns. If you want to learn the secrets of creating such culinary gems, Spice Spoons cooking school is the place to go for some expert tips on mastering the art of the famously zesty cuisine. Let the resident foodies take you on a market tour so you can handpick ingredients to cook back at the resort, marking a delicious end to your Sri Lankan adventure. To find out more, visit anantara.com For a chance to win a stay, see page 79. worldtravellermagazine.com 23