C Beyond

Introduction

C Beyond deserves to be recognised as one of the leading boutique hotels on Sri Lanka’s north-east coast. This beautifully-designed property makes full use of its water-dominated position, with a placid white-sand beach to the east and a lagoon to the south. The property feels like it is on the water and when the moon is bright the reflection over the sea and lagoon can be magical. Here you can find chic beach living blended with an air of informality. C Beyond was designed by one of Sri Lanka’s most influential artists and architects, Laki Senanayake, who spent much time in this area during childhood and who has celebrated these memories with a graceful and understated design that has enabled the blues of the sea and lagoon to take precedence. Original artwork and sculptures by Laki, one of Sri Lanka’s most creative minds, adorns the walls and public areas. The escapist beach settlement of Nilaveli is just to the south via Irrakkakandi Bridge, although the neck of the lagoon is so shallow here some prefer to go by boat – or even wade across during the season when the water is only waist deep!

Accommodation

There are seven rooms (with plans for a further two). Four deluxe rooms are on the first floor, between 28 to 38sqm, and are accessed by stairs. All possess contemporary, neutral tones, en suite with shower, sea views, four-poster king bed and single bed with mosquito netting, sofa, hardwood floors, a/c, kettle and tea/coffee facilities, in-built wardrobes, in-room safe, mini fridge, working area, balcony with outdoor seating and sea views. Palymyrah and Araliya are best for couples while Tamarind and Karanda can take two adults and two children. Another ground-floor deluxe room in the main house overlooks the sea and lagoon. These rooms can have cable tv and Blu Ray player on request. A separate two-room deluxe suite of 55sqm with a king bed and two single beds, as well as indoor and outdoor showers, is ideal for a family, and also has a flat-screen tv with cable channels and Blu Ray player.

Facilities

A bright, contemporary public area with high ceilings and great sea views has a range of sofas and tables and also houses a casual breakfast room. Board games are available. Outside there is a small garden with flowering shrubs and outdoor seating area, an outdoor dining area, and an infinity swimming pool. BBQs can be held on the beach with atmospheric lighting. BYO alcohol at the time of writing although there are plans to apply for a licence. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. A short stroll takes you to a quiet, unspoiled beach. Pigeon Island, and a lesser-known but equally rewarding snorkelling and scuba diving spot, Coral Island, are nearby. The restaurant serves a mix of Western and Sri Lankan dishes.

Why we like it

Take a sunset boat ride from C Beyond across the shallow lagoon

Location

C Beyond, flanked on two sides by a lagoon and the sea, lies on the northern outskirts of Nilaveli in the East Coast village of Kumpurupiddi. About six hours to Colombo’s main airport.