Dilmah opens Cape Weligama in October

Dilmah’s leisure arm, Resplendent Ceylon will be opening its beach resort, Cape Weligama situated 30 minutes east of Galle and costing Rs.3 billion, in October, the company stated.

The resort would comprise 40 villas and suites overlooking the Indian Ocean with a unique view from a cliff top due to its location. The company said the project was designed by renowned Thai architect Lek Bunnag, whose former projects include Oberoi Mauritius, Four Seasons Langkawi and the Ritz Carlton Phulay Bay.

Mr. Bunnag has designed large villas and suites for Cape Weligama ranging from 130-300 square metres, set within an area of 12 acres. The resort is designed with contemporary interiors, exquisite custom-made furnishings, ocean-facing terraces, private gardens with pools and private butler service. The release noted that dining options were available at a cliff edge Teppanyaki pavilion, an alfresco Sri Lankan restaurant and a spectacular ocean view dining pavilion where guests interact with chefs to select fresh seafood at the “Pola” or market.

Other highlights include a spectacular crescent shaped cliff-top infinity pool; in-villa spa experiences with bespoke products made from local teas and spices; a fully-equipped gym and beachside Dive Centre that also offers whale watching in Cape Weligama’s own luxury craft. Villas are arranged in “Wattas” (Gardens) named after old Ceylon explorers and the suites are in “Walauwas” (Mansions), named after artists and writers who lived in the country.

Like Tea Trails, Cape Weligama will be part of Relais and Chateaux, the Parisian association of the world’s finest hoteliers, chefs and restaurateurs, the release stated.

The signature Resplendent Ceylon “no bills to sign” rates include breakfast, lunch or dinner (offering the option of a meal in nearby Galle or Mirissa), all beverages around the clock, including spirits and wines, snacks, room service, laundry, taxes and service charges. Two other Dilmah projects are currently underway; Wild Coast Lodge scheduled for opening in November 2015 on a secluded beach in the Yala National Park, and Red Rocks Beach Camp scheduled for opening in March 2016 in Kuchaveli, near the famed seaport of Trincomalee.

Both will feature a custom designed air-conditioned 45 square metre tent with a 25 square metre deck, offering the experience of a jungle camp with the luxury of a deluxe hotel room, with a plumbed toilet and shower, it was stated adding that 28 tents are planned in each of the two locations. (SD)