Cinnamon Citadel Kandy

The white exterior of this hotel fits in nicely in the wide swath of green space all around it. Inside, the hotel successfully mixes contemporary style with authentic Sri Lankan elements to create a look that's pleasing, but never overdone. Traditional Kandyan art along with vibrant tones of red are used as highlights throughout public spaces and guest rooms. The lobby is a lovely, expansive, open-air space, with rich rugs atop white floors, white columns, and a high coffered ceiling highlighted by inset lighting. Multiple seating groups with a mix of contemporary sofas and traditional chairs provide plenty of places where guests can hang out and enjoy the pleasing setting. Views of the river and garden are beautiful, and a major highlight for the guests who flock here looking for a semi-secluded escape. Out back, stairs lead down to the river, and there are benches placed on the lawn for taking in the scenery. It's a quiet, laid-back place that primarily draws couples and families, but also a number of groups. 

This hotel is situated high up in the hill country overlooking the Mahaweli River, about a 15-minute drive from the center of Kandy. In addition to the forest, it is surrounded by local houses, but otherwise there's not much within an easy walk and a car will be helpful for exploring. The Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, is site of Sri Lanka's famed annual 10-day festival, Esala Perahera -- it can also be reached in 15 minutes by car. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya are about 20 minutes away. Shoppers looking for art and crafts can get to the Kandyan Art Association in about 20 minutes. Bandaranaike International Airport is about three hours west of the hotel. 

Rooms feature a mix of modern and Kandyan decor, with tile floors, high ceilings, striped accent walls, and rich red and orange accents in pillows and bed toppers. Lighting is crafted of rattan, and furniture is wood, and the more charming rooms even have hardwood ceilings. Floor plans are fairly generous, with even entry-level Superior Rooms offering at least 423 square feet of space (39 square meters). The hotel also offers two suites with separate living areas and two bathrooms. Ceiling fans supplement air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs are mounted on the wall. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, minibars, safes, and tea/coffee makers. Balconies are furnished with a table and two wicker chairs, and views are lovely, either of the river or the gardens. Many of the bathrooms are tiled all in black except for the floor, which is terra cotta. They're equipped with hairdryers, toiletries, generous granite countertops, and shower/tub combos (though Deluxe Rooms have separate showers and tubs). Robes and slippers are provided on request.

There are a number of features here that give this property a resort-like feel without losing the intimate charm. All meals are served as buffets at the hotel's main restaurant, Panorama. The cuisine is varied, and includes Indian, Thai, Italian, Chinese, and French dishes, as well as pasta, salads, and grilled items. Barbecue nights also happen on weekends. Guests can opt to dine inside at the wood tables and chairs, or out on the terrace. Both spots provide beautiful views of the river and mountains and food gets good reviews all around. Cafe C is a smaller venue near the pool serving a la carte contemporary fusion cuisine in a cozy space with red cushions atop wood and wicker seating. It also has lovely views from large windows. The open-air Lounge Bar in the the lobby also is by the pool and is a lively spot for live jazz and theme nights. Room service is available until late.

The large outdoor pool is surrounded by an expansive wooden pool deck lined with lounge chairs, cafe tables and chairs, and umbrellas. Views of the river and countryside are beautiful. In addition to the fitness center with cardio and weight-training equipment, indoor activities include ping-pong, badminton, darts, and chess. There's also a dock for boat tours on the river.

For guests who need to get in a little work, laptops are available, as are business services such as copying and online bookings. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The hotel has two meeting rooms, the main conference hall for groups of up to 80 people, and the more intimate mini-conference hall. Cafe C also can be reserved for private events. Audiovisual aids are supplied, and staff assists with details. Weddings can be held in the gardens by the river.