Jungle Beach

Introduction

Jungle Beach fronts a secluded bay on Sri Lanka's east coast at one end and the tranquil Periyakarachchi Lagoon at the other, offering a rare beach experience that is immersed in nature. Being the only hotel on the bay, the beach is virtually deserted. This eco-friendly resort is set amidst a scrub jungle and consists of 48 luxurious cabins thatched with Illuk grass. Paved pathways through shrubs, creepers and winding roots connect the cabins to the restaurant, swimming pool and the ocean. Private terraces and decks are built around tall trees that attract numerous birds and the occasional monkey. Jungle Beach is the sister property of the highly-praised Ulagalla Resort in Anuradhapura.

Accommodation

Accommodation is split into: Lagoon Cabins, Beach Cabins, Jungle Cabins and Jungle Clusters, all set amidst lush foliage providing much privacy. The cabins are 650 sq. ft in size and consist of a bedroom and lounging area opening out to a private terraces or deck furnished with lounge chairs. They have polished cement floors, a vaulted ceiling and thatched grass roof and minimalist interiors tastefully decorated with local materials. In-room facilities include a/c and an overhead fan, tea/coffee facilities, a mini-bar, 32 inch LCD TV with satellite channels, iPod dock, a safe, cotton bathrobes and slippers. Ensuite bathrooms have indoor and outdoor rain showers.

Lagoon Cabins: The 18 Lagoon Cabins open out to views of the gardens or the Periyakarachchi Lagoon. Interiors are furnished with twin or king-sized beds.

Jungle Cabins: These 13 cabins have spectacular views of the jungle and offer guests seclusion. Interiors are furnished with king-sized beds.

Beach Cabins: The 14 Beach Cabins are set closer to the sea with pathways leading directly on to the beach.

Jungle Clusters: There are three Jungle Clusters that are ideal for families or friends travelling together. Each cluster shares a swimming pool.

Facilities

Dine at the open air restaurant or on your own veranda. Jungle Beach can even arrange romantic dinners on the beach or under a tree in the gardens. Sri Lankan and international cuisine is served, prepared with fresh seafood purchased from the village fisherman and local vegetables. There is also a well-stocked bar, a gym, a swimming pool and an in-house spa offering relaxing Balinese massages. Jungle Beach also offers Sri Lankan cookery sessions and kite-making for kids.

Why we like it

We particularly like the beach cabanas in one of the East Coast's leading resorts.

Location

Jungle Beach is an upmarket eco-retreat set on 10 acres of shrub jungle flanked by turquoise seas in the remote village of Kuchchaveli in the north-east, 30km north of Trincomalee.