Luxury hotel holiday Anantaya Resort & Spa Chilaw Chilaw

The Anantaya Resort and Spa in Chilaw, on the west coast of Sri Lanka, is bordered by the Bangadeniya Lagoon on one side, and the crystal clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean on the other. A grassy stretch, lined with swaying palms and sun loungers, creates a pretty pathway between the hotel buildings and the beach. The main building is a wooden structure with white-washed walls and an abundance of glass, which sleekly blends traditional Sri Lankan design with striking modernity. Light, open rooms are decorated with warm, neutral colours, while authentic wooden furnishings and cross-hatched screens add character and individuality. Glass walls and large balconies encourage guests to gaze out over the water of the lagoon or the sea. The stylish feel of the Anantaya Resort & Spa is perhaps most apparent in the spa buildings, which extend across the lagoon waters on stilts and have large verandas. A range of spa treatments are available, from Ayurvedic to aromatherapy. Asian design and flavours dominate in the enchanting main bar and fine-dining restaurant. The large open windows in the restaurant look out across the sea, and let in a delicate sea breeze, creating the perfect setting in which to enjoy the international cuisine, which is always expertly prepared and presented. More casual snacking and dining options are available at the open-air poolside bar. The large swimming pool, along with bike rentals, a gym, beach and water sports, and an exclusive shopping arcade offer more than enough activity to keep guests entertained. Otherwise, walk into the quaint village of Chilaw to see traditional Sri Lankan life unfold. We would highly recommend the Anantaya Resort in Chilaw for a relaxing and idyllic stop on one of Expressions Holidays' Sri Lankan tours, perhaps combining it with boutique rural villas, rustic accommodation in the National Parks, or sophisticated city hotels.