Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara

Introduction

Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara, a Beruwela wellness retreat, offers an ideal setting for those wanting to destress, detox and rejuvenate within a nurturing environment that promotes Ayurvedic wellness, yoga and guided meditation. An original creation of the late Geoffrey Bawa, the resort is set amidst sprawling gardens scattered with swaying palms and lush tropical foliage leading to the Indian Ocean. Wake up early and immerse yourself in yoga followed by a nutritious breakfast, before beginning the day’s treatments at the in-house Ayurvedic Centre, which is staffed with some of Sri Lanka’s most reputable Ayurvedic doctors. In between, laze by the poolside, read a book in the privacy of your own balcony, or take a stroll along the sandy beach. Six to 14-day wellness packages are tailored to suit individual needs. Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara is one of four Heritance properties owned by Aitken Spence. The other resorts are Heritance Ahungalle, Heritance Kandalama in the Cultural Triangle and Heritance Tea Factory in the central hills.

Accommodation

There are 64 luxurious bedrooms categorised into Standard, Deluxe, Suites and Corner Rooms set in a horseshoe-shaped, three-storey building overlooking the central swimming pool. All bedrooms open out to a private terrace or balcony with sea views. Bedrooms are tastefully decorated in soothing neutral tones and are furnished with twin or double beds. In-room facilities include a/c, overhead fans, telephone, a range of soothing music, safe, bathrobe, hair-dryer, mini-fridge (on request),room service and laundry service. Ensuite bathrooms have h/w showers.

Standard Rooms (290 sq ft): The 16 Standard Rooms open on to a private terrace or balcony with sea views and have all standard facilities listed above.

Deluxe Rooms (320 sq ft): More spacious than the Standard Rooms, these 36 bedrooms also have sea views.

Suites (612 sq ft): Theseven suites are spacious and have living and dining areas. In addition to the standard facilities, there is also cable TV.

Corner Rooms (580 sq ft): The five corner roomsare spacious and open out to a broad balcony where you can dine or take in the spectacular sunsets. These rooms are located closer to the sea and have lovely views.

Facilities

The Ayurvedic centre has a team of highly qualified doctors who provide Ayurvedic treatments, acupuncture, energy healing, and counselling. The chief consultant physician has much training in Kerala and Sri Lanka and is supported by 36 trained male and female therapists. The centre is designed with lotus-filled ponds and individual therapy and consultation rooms. Programmes include stress management and weight loss, which require a minimum stay of 14 days, and rejuvenation and regeneration which require a minimum stay of six days. Guests have a consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor who then plans a wellness programme based on their needs, encompassing mind and body wellness, proper nutrition, herbal tonics and Ayurvedic medications and relaxation of the mind and body through Yoga, meditation and counselling. The restaurant serves nutritious fresh juices and Ayurvedic meals prepared with fresh village vegetables, fish and chicken. Meal preparations are supervised by the in-house doctors and include traditional Sri Lankan and western cuisine.

Guests receive guidance on how to prepare such meals upon their return home. Other resort facilities include a yoga and meditation hall, twin swimming pools, library and Wi-Fi. Traditional Sri Lankan dances related to healing are performed occasionally in the evenings. Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara supports the local community by encouraging traditional arts and crafts, which are a major source of income for the villagers. There is an in-house Arts & Crafts centre where local artisans come daily to do handloom weaving, beeralu lace making, and mask carving – guests can try their hand at these traditional skills. There is also a small sales centre with all proceeds going to the craftsmen and women.

Why We Like It

Authentic Ayurveda treatements, emphasising relaxation and detoxification, in an attractive setting.

Sustainability

The Aitken Spence chain of hotels has been working on sustainability throughout their hotels over the past couple of years. All Aitken Spence hotels are keen on energy and water saving, educating their staff and inspiring their guests to go green while also being Travelife Gold certified.

Location

Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara is a wellness retreat set on the sun-kissed beaches of Beruwala on Sri Lanka’s west coast. The journey form Colombo’s international airport will take about two hours.