The Wallawwa

Just 20 minutes from the airport, The Wallawwa is a tranquil retreat ideal for easing into or winding down from a luxury vacation to Sri Lanka. Set within tropical, manicured gardens, this 200-year-old Dutch colonial manor blends timeless charm across 17 thoughtfully designed rooms with modern comfort. The open-air Veranda restaurant serves fresh, flavourful Sri Lankan and international dishes, while the Z Spa offers expert treatments in a peaceful, intimate setting. Its convenient yet secluded location makes it a perfect first or final stop on your journey.

Accommodation

Built over 200 years ago in the traditional Dutch warehouse style, the 17-bedroom property combines old and new concepts in chic Sri Lankan style. Relaxed rooms around a central courtyard feature traditional Sri Lankan furnishings and modern amenities. Outside, you'll find pretty manicured gardens with lush planting. There’s also a Family Suite available.

Food & Drink

Set amidst vibrant gardens, the open-sided restaurant offers a scenic welcome to Sri Lanka. Menus showcase the best local produce, from flavourful Sri Lankan curries to international favourites, alongside a wellness menu highlighting nourishing superfoods and fresh, regional ingredients. Locally inspired cocktails complete the experience, capturing the island’s spirit in every sip.

Activities

While it's tempting to stick around the hotel's beautiful garden and pool or enjoy a Sri Lankan cooking demo, the region offers plenty of activities. Start in Negombo, where you can explore on foot with a guide, visiting Catholic churches, a Dutch fort, and lively fish markets. Take a boat or kayak to explore the mangrove-fringed lagoon and Dutch canals. Colombo, just a 30-40-minute drive away, boasts high-end shopping, dining, and art galleries. A guided walking tour through the Fort area and Pettah Bazaar district is a delightful way to experience the city. If you want to unwind at the hotel, the 16m stone-lined pool is a good place to start. Surrounded by tropical foliage, it offers privacy away from the hotel. Head to the hotel spa for a soothing massage, before grabbing an aperitif and watching as the sun sets.

Sustainability

At The Wallawwa, the team fosters a familial atmosphere, extending warmth to guests and staff alike. They prioritise hiring locally and provide comprehensive training and mentoring opportunities to support career advancement. The staff actively engages in community initiatives, including our charitable foundation CARE (Creating a Rewarding Experience), which aids local causes. So far, CARE has facilitated the provision of medicine, food, and reading glasses to low-income families and has initiated programs to empower youth with employment opportunities.

Children

Families with young children are welcome. However, there are no specific facilities catered to entertain younger children.

Getting There

The drive from Colombo’s International Airport to The Wallawwa takes approximately 20 minutes by car, while from central Colombo takes 40 minutes to drive.