Arachchi Heritage

Introduction

Arachchi Heritage has a serene and intimate feel that manages to delight history buffs, nature lovers and style gurus alike. This excellently designed contemporary property led one guest to remark that it felt as if they were in an “Architectural Digest photo shoot. The villa is also a wildlife haven with views over the Tissa Wewa reservoir to the famous steopas beyond; peacocks are often seen wandering by the side of the property. Sarath and Chithurika ensure gracious and caring service and freshly-cooked evening meals, relying heavily on locally-sourced ingredients, also win a lot of praise. The ceiling of the lounge is imaginatively decorated with a prescription of the late Sirisena Weda Mahatmaya, who was a renowned Ayurvedic doctor in Anuradhapura. The villa can be booked by the room or in its entirety.

Accommodation

An open staircase leads from the lounge to two spacious bedrooms with high ceilings and half-open bathrooms with sliding doors to the shower beyond. One of the bathrooms has a bathtub. Sliding doors open out to a balcony overlooking the reservoir – perfect for sunrise views. Rooms have a/c, phone, 43-inch cable TV, hair dryer, minibar, complimentary TV/coffee, iron and ironing board.

Facilities

There is a smallish but highly-attractive pool in a fresh and bright courtyard garden. The lake-cum-forest location is a particular delight for birdwatchers. A dining area also includes a lounging area with TV and a small outdoor terrace. The property has wi-fi. There is a 24-hour room service with butler and packed breakfasts can be provided for those departing early. BYO alcohol. Help can be given with transport and guides around Anuradhapura’s.

Why we like it

A serene setting in woodland on the edge of the Tissa Wewa combines with architectural flair and attentive service.

Location

A lakeside setting on the western edge of the Thisa Wewa means that Arachchi Heritage is barely five minutes from the ancient city of Anuradhapura and also just 45 minutes from Wilpattu national park.