엘리얀트 우다왈라웨

This is a great, boutique hotel. Nestled in the ‘jungle’ overlooking a lovely waterhole. A great welcome from the wonderful staff. Mika and his team were fab. We used this for a base to go on safari and to visit the Elephant rescue centre. The rooms were excellent, even an outdoor/indoor shower. The pool was refreshing after a long day in the jeep searching for wildlife.

Tucked away down a rough and muddy road you turn into a nondescript driveway that hides the relative luxury of Eliyanth. It was raining on our arrival and we were greeted wih large umbrellas and staff who whisked away our bags. After refreshing welcome drinks we checked into a very large king-bed room with several additional beds for guests in the loft. Immediate room appeal hits you as does its outstanding cleanliness. Other reviewers have mentioned the facilities, food, staff and grounds - with views of wildlife across a flowing river - which are first class, so I won't repeat them. There is an area-wide wi-fi/data reception issue that has nothing to do with the Eliyanth, as you may discover when you also take a safari, which we did and was arranged seamlessly by Eliyanth. Be prepared to pay with cash if cards don't upload. We tried for at least 3 minutes before success! Eliyanth had the nicest linens, softest towels and best pillows we experienced during our trip to Sri Lanka, and was complemented by a large and modern bathroom. Fans and airconditioning made for an exceptionally good night's sleep, which was important to us as we needed to be ready for a 5.30AM start to our safari the next day. Eliyanth is one place you can confidently book and expect a level of facilities and services that make holidays abroad a bit more special given it affordability. By the way, our safari from Eliyanth was brilliant.