Cape Weligama

Rooms

Made up of residences and villas, Cape Weligama has 40 bedrooms in total. The residences are in clusters of two or three, sharing a swimming pool. These clusters are known as wattas (the Sinhalese word for ‘garden’). In addition, there are four spacious villas surrounding the Cove Pool, which has areas for swimming laps and shallow areas for children. Each villa is home to four suites, which can interconnect, so are perfect for families or friends. Finally, the Cape Weligama Residence, at 307 sq m (3,304 sq ft), boasts an infinity pool on the upper floor, ocean views from both bedrooms and ample dining, lounge and relaxation areas. All residences and villas enjoy private butler service.

Location

A scenic 30-minute drive from the colonial Dutch fort of Galle, Cape Weligama is perched at the top of the cliffs at the southern tip of Sri Lanka. Its location means the hotel boasts panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and has two beaches. The larger beach, ideal for those who enjoy water sports, is reached down a slope and the smaller, more private beach to the west is accessible down quite a few steps.

Food and drink

Although each residence has a spacious terrace for private dining, guests have lots of options at Cape Weligama, where both half board and full board basis are available. Its coastal location means seafood plays a large part in the menus.

At Pola (the Sinhalese word for ‘market’) you can hand-pick your dinner and discuss with the chef how you'd like it prepared. Enjoy dinner in the De Mauny restaurant, overlooking the Indian Ocean. For traditional cuisine, Kumbuk is an open-air Sri Lankan restaurant where you can eat with your hands and sample some of the island's most popular dishes. Rouge is the hotel's steakhouse and grill, set dramatically at the cliff edge. With amazing views and an intimate atmosphere, it's worth booking in advance or on arrival.

Afternoon tea, cocktails and endless Sri Lankan and international snacks are also available, just discuss preferences with your butler.

Families

Water sports, beach activities and the Cove Pool are all ideal for children although please note that there isn't a children's club at the hotel. The villas are best for families as they are private units with interconnecting bedrooms.

Honeymooners

Perfect for honeymooners, Cape Weligama is very private and the need to leave your residence is minimal. Spa treatments, dinners and sundowners can all be arranged at your room; either near the pool or on your veranda. Private dining elsewhere can also be arranged, and there are lots of options. The hotel can also arrange private excursions, cooking classes or something more active, including diving, surfing or cycling.

Facilities and activities

In addition to each Watta's pool, Cape Weligama also boasts the 20 m Cove Pool and the impressive 60 m Moon Pool, which has 270-degree ocean views. Underneath the Moon Pool is the Cybex Gymnasium as well as the Moon Bar. Here, casual drinks can be enjoyed, movie nights are held and unmissable international sports fixtures are screened.

The beaches either side of the hotel are public but quiet due to the lack of other hotels in the area. The eastern beach is home to the professionally-staffed sports centre, which is the place to arrange all activities or from where to hire equipment. Swim, snorkel, kayak, or learn to surf and dive. PADI courses are available. Sunset cruises, whale and dolphin watching and fishing are all possible too.

Away from the resort, you can get a taste of the island by hiring bicycles to explore, head to Galle to soak up the Dutch history, walk through spice plantations or consider a day trip to Uda Walawe or Yala National Park if you haven't already been during your holiday.

Environmental and social responsibility

The property also works closely with the MJF Foundation Community Centre, where the local community come together to learn through training, vocational programmes and more.

Spa Facilities

Cape Weligama encourages Ceylonese indulgence and all within the privacy of your Residence (although there is a small spa if you prefer). The expert therapists only use organic ingredients, whether you choose to enjoy an oil massage incorporating Ceylon tea or a scrub, made with locally grown spices. For further relaxation, a herbal steam experience can be arranged or your bathtub can be filled with aromatherapy oils. Every Residence and Villa has a steam room and large standalone bathtub.