If getting away from city noises and immersing in a luxurious, yet intimate environment amidst tropical nature is top of your mind when coming to Sri Lanka, look no further. The Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, set on a mountain top overlooking UNESCO Natural World Heritage listed Knuckles Mountain Range, is one-of-a-kind place. In February 2023 when a friend of mine and I were traveling through Sri Lanka, I was so fortunate to stay in one of their 9 villas. 9 exclusive villas surrounded by tea, fruit and spice plantations revealing Sri Lanka's natural beauty.
Why coming to Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa? What's the vibe?
The name of the hotel, Aaarunya, meaning the first rays of the sun in ancient language of Sanskrit, perfectly catches the hotel's uniqueness and connectedness to nature but is also what comes to my mind when thinking of my stay at Aarunya: Waking up in the morning and watching those early sunrays breaking through the clouds illuminating the mountains in the distant. Another thing that sets the tone: When we arrived in the hotel, after an one hour drive from Kandy's city center, the first thing you grasp is the sound of birds and monkeys embracing you. The boutique hotel truly in one of those places which make you forget about worries and everyday life's to do's. Ideal for a couple's getaway, honeymoon or- as we did - an exceptional girl's trip to unwind and recharge.
What does the resort offer? How's the accommodation?
Apart from the main pool stretching to infinity towards the Sri Lankan jungle, each villa comes with its own pool and luxurious amenities. We stayed in the Superior Villa equipped with local antique furniture, a king size bed, generous bathroom and an outdoor jacuzzi looking out to the Mountain tops. If you want to upgrade your stay, you'll be wise to choose a Sky Villa or Habitat Villa with even more space and an outdoor plunge pool. What I loved was the intimate feels the villas provide - being not too close to each other rather scattered across the 7 acres - making you feel like you're the only visitor in the Sri Lankan jungle.
How was dining like?
During my 10 day travels through Sri Lanka, the dining at the Aarunya was by far the best. Dining takes place either at The Verandah, located in the main building overlooking the infinity pool, or at your private villa for an even more intimate experience. For dinner we indulged in a three course meal of Sri Lankan cuisine inspired by contemporary, international cooking. I started with Ceylonese Mulliga Tawny Soup, followed by tuna & shrimp tacos served on rotis (the Mexican, Sri Lankan fusion here was my absolute favorite!) and finally banana leave fish with mango salsa and cumin rice. Any of those was well balanced in taste and spice. The Sri Lankan cuisine was memorable itself but accompanied by views of the mountains even the more. The breakfast menu leans more into international cuisine but doesn't hold back compared to local kitchen the evening before.
And the service?
Staying at a destination with only a certain number of guests certainly has its perks. One of them is that the staff is even more thoughtful. The team at Aarunya was kind and attentive to details and special requests, making you feel just like home. The best part upon arrival was a 10-minute welcome neck message which gives you a glimpse of their Ayurvedic, therapeutic Spa services they provide.
What else is there to do?
Staying at Aarunya is all about slowing down and disconnecting. When we were strolling through the resort, we witnessed staff cultivating fresh pepper. I couldn't resist trying - I seriously didn't know how fresh and delicious pepper may taste. Apart from watching sunrise and sunset from your private pool, you may also indulge in their spa, the Aaroyga Luxury Spa, for a Ayurvedic treatment or therapeutic message, explore the environment by bike or opt for a Yoga class.
Staying at the Aarunya is an exceptional experience. Immersing in remote places amidst nature away from everyday life's hustle and bustle does something to you. Waking up in the morning to the sound of birds and monkeys and watching the first sunrays come out over the mountain tops nestled in mist, you'll never be more at ease during your Sri Lankan journey.
