Uga Chena Huts

Introduction

Uga Chena Huts is an enchanting boutique hotel sprawled across seven acres of scrubland edged by the sea, just a five minute drive from the main entrance to Yala National Park.. The first boutique accommodation to be offered in the Yala area, Chena Huts is comprised of fourteen luxurious cabins, set apart from each other and shaded by trees to offer guests maximum privacy; a reception and dining area on the edge of the sea, and a pool and spa. The resort is innovatively designed: each building is in the style of a local village house, with a palm-thatched roof and artfully mottled walls, and winding wooden walkways lead between the cabins, surrounded on either side by the scrubland plants of the deep south. The rooms also have interesting unique notes, such as the free-standing bath and large flower-shaped fan. Chena Huts provides wonderful service and delicious food in an enchanting environment.

The hotel operates on an all-inclusive basis covering luxury accommodation in cabins; two game drives per day in a customized vehicle accompanied by an experienced guide; snacks and drinks on game drives; breakfast, lunch and dinner at camp; water, fruit juices, soft drinks, tea and coffee; wine, beer, imported spirits; and all park entry fees. If guests are interested in going on a private game drive accompanied by a naturalist an additional supplement is applicable.

Accommodation

There are 14 cabins, all complete with a private outdoor deck with sun loungers, shower and plunge pool, sheltered from the neighbouring rooms by the natural landscape. All cabins but one have a king-sized bed – number 5 has twin beds and is connected to 6 via a short walkway and decking area, perfect for families. Rooms are spacious and decorated in a tasteful ‘rustic’ style, with small unique touches such as the free-standing bath. There is also an indoor shower, w/c and large twin sink area with a full complement of toiletries. In-room facilities include a comfortable circular sofa piled high with cushions, desk, table and chairs, TV, tea and coffee facilities, minibar, torch and a safe. All rooms can be tripled.

Facilities

Relax in the turquoise pool, which has an artificial waterfall cascading in front of the pool bar, or enjoy a treatment at the spa. Go on a night-time bush walk with one of their knowledgeable team of rangers, who will also accompany you on game drives into nearby Yala National Park. Their restaurant, The Basses, has glass walls which offer uninterrupted views of the beach, where wild boar, hares and occasionally elephants roam. They serve a wide range of beautifully-presented Western and Asian cuisine, as well as offering BBQs and bonfires on the beach. There is also a bar with an extensive drinks menu, including alcoholic beverages. Chena Huts provides complimentary Wi-Fi and 24/7 service but no room service, as it would attract wildlife to the chalets. Note: It is not safe to walk on the beach due to the wild animals which inhabit the area.

Why We Like It

A personal splash pool just adds to the overall impression of 5-star quality.

Location

Uga Chena Huts is a few minutes from the main entrance to Yala National Park in the far south-east of Sri Lanka. The journey time is less than two hours from the end of the coastal motorway at Hambantota.