A journey of some 163 kilometres from the capital Colombo, through scenery that is spectacular and diverse, brings you to the heartland of Sri Lanka’s central plains and cultural triangle. Here stands an ancient marvel, the world renowned rock fortress of Sigiriya. Sitting quietly in its shadow is a hotel which pays homage to its unique beauty; Vil Uyana.
With commanding views by day of the Lion’s Rock at Sigiriya, dining at Vil Uyana offers an experience like no other; The Apsara offers fine dining with favourites from both the East and West, not to be missed however is the range of unique dishes offered by the Go Sri Lankan menu where each dish is a recipe unique to the area and as authentically Sri Lanka as you can get. For a more relaxed menu: The Sulang, open throughout the day and into the night, offers a wide selection of light meals and snacks, together with some deliciously different beverages. The ultimate romantic experience must be Tree House dining, tucked away in one of the many lofty trees in the grounds, and for just two people, delicious menus are prepared using the freshest and finest ingredients. Enveloped in the soothing breeze and serenaded by rustling leaves, this is a secret you will not wish to share.
Tempting though it maybe to bask in the peace and solitude, there is much else to discover. The beauty of the natural surroundings will make you want to venture and explore. The acreage of the property is vast and plenty of treks and walks beg to be taken to investigate the lush natural habitat and wildlife up close. Or venture further afield on a bike ride; why not take a delicious picnic meal to enjoy on your journey. Back in the hotel the infinity pool merging into the lake is large, and inviting enough to draw attention even from the rightful inhabitants of the water, who often hover in the vicinity unconcerned by your presence.
If peaceful inaction is more your style our Yoga instructor will help you find inner solace through meditation. Or enter the Spa, a world of bliss where peace and luxury heal and pamper the entire being.
You can in fact, choose to do nothing at all except laze all day on your terrace; Vil Uyana is a haven of tranquillity, where enchantment fills the senses and inspires the soul.
Just 25 luxurious dwellings are to be found in this retreat where wilderness cohabits with the gentle bustle of humanity. The stylish and comfortable accommodation blends in with a thriving eco system of specially created wetland in the heart of the dry central plains. Four different forms of dwelling await the guests, each in a different habitat, whether it is water, marsh paddy or forest. The Water Dwellings have a breath-taking location over the lake; high ceilings with cool wooden floors, muted colours and white linen complement the tones of the woven reed of the décor. Watch the herons perched on the water lilies and lotuses from the peace of the private balcony. The Marsh and Paddy dwellings give a sense of being at one with the natural environs. All are equally expansive and comfortably furnished in traditional rustic style and all have their own deck on which to sit and be inspired by the views over surrounding landscape. Two Marsh dwellings and all Paddy dwellings also have a private plunge pool set into the surroundings, where you may easily be tempted to enjoy an entire day of submerged leisure. Built from earth and stone to merge seamlessly into their surrounding the two storey Forest Dwellings are rustic on the outside, yet sumptuously indulgent on the inside. Each has a spacious bedroom with lounge area, while downstairs there is a dining room and a wonderfully tempting private swimming pool which fuses perfectly with the surrounding forest backdrop.
