Overview
Inspired by a water theme, the Water Garden has 30 villas scattered across 35 acres of dry and open land , once jungle to the local wildlife. Enter via a ‘Wizard of Oz’ style golden sandstone path to reach the hotel, perched upon a green belt and a lake, a quiet contrast to this dry zone of the island in the heart of the Cultural Triangle.
The 30 separate villas ensure privacy whilst maintaining contact and 24 hours service if and when required. Their 30 villas are furnished and equipped to pamper the even the ‘hardcore’ sightsee-er. The ensuite bathrooms with rain showers and bath tubs, private lounge areas within the suites, cosy verandahs, private pools with jacuzziall entice you back to be indulged and relaxed.. The spa. home to professionally trained Balinese therapeutic masseurs, yoga, the swimming pool and game room are some of the indoor treats when you are in ’no mood’ to venture out.
The grounds are full of lush tropical plantation, indoor ponds with lotus blooms and green green grass. Venturing out of the grounds, you will discover Sri Lanka’s rich past. Guided safari tours, nature treks, bird watching and access to bicycle rides and tours of the historic sights are some of the must do’s while in the vicinity. With easy access to the Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla caves, and past kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, staying at the Water Gardens is a smart move as well as indulgent.
Rooms
Water Garden Sigiriya boasts 30 beautiful villas come in three styles. Each villa boasts a little bit of glamour with four post beds covered with netting and mahogany hued wall decors and window posts. An ensuite bathroom and the best of modern amenities-Wifi for internet access, an iPod deck, TV’s with satellite channels, tea/coffee facilities, Air-conditioning and ceiling fans, hairdryers, bathrobes and slippers and safety deposit boxes are some of the common basic features offered to all guests no matter which room you choose. The rooms are painted in light shades to maximize the tropical lighting with soothing colors of bed spreads with contrasting dark hued decor such as cushions, arms chairs, carpeting and window seats. The flooring is cool to tired feet.
The 4 Duplex villas are ideal for larger families and groups, this suite gives you the privacy whilst giving the opportunity to indulge in the tropical natural environment within your own enclave. Next come the 13 Superior Deluxe villas enjoy breathtaking views of Sigiriya Rock Fortress to one side and the green forests to the other.
For those who focus on the sightseeingby day and are a little less demanding of home comforts by evening, there are 13 Deluxe villas.
The set up of the villas are to create space for each person staying whether a couple, a family or a group. The bathrooms come with double wash basins, separated bath tub and rain shower, and ample internal space within the villa. When you step outside, you still get your own private space to indulge in, with your own mini pool with jacuzzi and the deck with sun-beds and seating.
Dining
The restaurant and bar adorned with unique furniture and fixings, are built in an aesthetically pleasing manner for the views of Sigiriya rock, While the restaurant boasts a beautifully carved hand made chandelier hanging form the ceiling, the bar boasts a terrace with a view which will take your breath away.
The restaurant caters for all three meals with buffet and a-la-carte options. Ranging from local to International flavors, the staff cook up mouth watering recipes. The bar offers a plethora of delicious cocktails, are one of the best you would find in the region. All food lovers must visit and taste the food and beverages of Water Garden Sigiriya to truly appreciate good cooking and attention to detail.
The food, made with all organic and local farms fresh ingredients not only tastes great thanks to the head chef and his superbly talented staff, but is also healthy and fresh thanks to the local farmers and markets from where it was sourced.
Things to do & local tips
Situated in the heart of the dry zone of the island, Water Garden Sigirya will give you access to many an adventure: Hikes, treks, bicycles rides, boat rides are some of the activities you can arrange through the hotel. Natural forests, rock climbing, bird watching and safaris for the real enthusiast.
Within driving distance, you can see some of the country’s most important heritage sights, from history to religion, one can cover the main milestones in Sri Lanka’s past by visiting these preserved ruins from kingdoms past.
Some of the highlights recommended are:
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Dambulla Cave Temples
Mihinthale Rock climb
Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa historic sights
Minneriya Elephant safari and bird watching
Popham's Arboretum
Upon returning from sight seeing, the staff’s unwavering attention and catering to your every need will dissipate any thoughts of leaving this wonderful luxurious island within the island and you would want to continue your stay surrounded by water within Water Garden Sigiriya.