Introduction
Kalundewa Retreat is set on a 115-acre paddy and vegetable estate near Dambulla with picturesque hills as a backdrop. It consists of three luxurious, contemporary chalets created by young Sri Lankan architect, Sarath Liyanage. The chalets are set well away from each other by a man-made lake strewn with mangroves and tall tropical trees that attract exotic birds and butterflies. The chalets have high timber roofs, polished cement floors and large glass windows that offer spectacular jungle and lake views. Steel beams and large glass panels glint in the dappled sunlight and confident wooden decking juts outwards. Minimalist interiors have great views, modern furniture and art by Sri Lankan artist and landscape architect Laki Senanayake. To get to the two chalets, take a short ferry ride winding around massive Milla trees or take a short walk along a gravel path. You can be active and go on nature trails, village walks and bird watching; or merely take in the peace of this wonderful holiday retreat. Kalundewa Retreat can be booked by the room and is ideal for nature lovers. It is also well suited for a romantic honeymoon.
NOTE: Kalundewa Retreat is not suitable for very young children due to the surrounding lake.
Accommodation
Nika / Ahela (max 2 adults): Deluxe room in the Luxury Bungalow with a king size bed, an ensuite rain shower bathroom, and private balcony with views of the mountains and paddy fields.
Note: Bungalow can be booked exclusively
Damunu Suite: (max 3 adults): Suite in the Damunu Chalet with a king sized bed, one roll-away bed, an ensuite rain shower bathroom, a living area, and private balcony with views of the mountains and paddy fields.
Upper Bakmee: (max 3 adults): Upper floor room in the Bakmee Chalet with a king sized bed, a rollaway bed, an ensuite rain shower bathroom, a living area, and private balcony with a BBQ area and views of the lake and gardens.
Lower Bakmee: (max 3 adults): Lower floor room in the Bakmee Chalet with a king sized bedroom, a rain shower bathroom, a living area, a dining area, and private balcony with a Jacuzzi plunge pool and views of the lake and gardens.
Note: Bakmee chalet can be booked exclusively
Kumbuk Chalet: (max 3 adults): (max 3 adults): Chalet with a king size bed, rollaway bed, an ensuite rain shower bathroom, a living and dining area, and a balcony with a Jacuzzi plunge pool and lake views. Also referred to as the Romantic Lake Chalet.
Features in all chalets: Phone, iPod dock, Internet Connection, Safe box, Air-Conditioning, Jacuzzi/hot tub (private),Terrace/balcony (private),Hairdryer, Bathrobes, Complimentary toiletries, Minibar, Coffee/tea making, Coffee maker
Facilities
Guests can dine in the villa or across the water at the reception/dining area. There is a set menu of Sri Lankan and western dishes. Meals are prepared with rice, fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruit grown on the estate. Nature lovers will revel in opportunities for bird watching, trekking, boating, fishing and cycling. Staff includes a manager who also overlooks the plantation and is happy to take you around on a conducted tour; chef, housekeeping staff, and personal butler for the chalets.
Why We Like It
Huge glass windows make the most of the natural landscape and rich wildlife.
Location
Kalundewa Retreat is situated in the village of Kalundewa near Dambulla and is a convenient base for exploring the major historical and wildlife sites of the cultural triangle region.
Location: Dambulla, Cultural Triangle
Style: Boutique Hotel
No. of Rooms: 6
Key Features: Beautiful setting; wildlife; peaceful atmosphere