Tamarind Hill by Asia Leisure

Travelers choose the Tamarind Hill for its sophisticated retreat feel. Beautifully restored features here consist of fine woods, rug-flanked floors, intricate Sri Lankan accents, and contemporary finishes. Expect tamarind shades in cream-hued lounges, rope-suspended art, brass fixtures, and brocades. High ceilings and white archways frame semi-outdoor lounges, and courtyard counterparts have a sanctuary vibe with a pond garden and furnished galleried terraces for al fresco dining. The tranquil, natural setting is enhanced by hopping bunnies and tree-swinging monkeys -- especially by the outdoor pool, which backs onto a jungle. The lack of kid-specific amenities makes this best suited to couples or groups. While a stay here is certainly elegant, amenities don't quite reach the advertised luxury status. Fortunately, rates are extremely reasonable for the offerings.

The hotels occupies a peaceful spot on the Giniganga River's banks, where a wooden deck overlooks jungle-surrounded waters. There's little in the immediate surrounds, although downtown Galle is 14 minutes by car or tuk-tuk, with the city's historic attractions slightly closer. These include the 1588-built Galle Dutch Fort, Galle's National Museum, and Lighthouse. The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a 20-minute ride. Journeys south along Galle Road lead to beaches, and whale watching an hour's drive away at Mirissa makes for great day trips. Galle's train and bus stations are a five-minute drive. The hotel books tuk-tuks for guests, but these are often overpriced, and it's fairly easy to hail one from the nearby Colombo - Galle Main Road. Bandaranaike International Airport is just over two hours by car. 

The huge 646-square-foot (60-square-meter) ground-level rooms are outfitted in lovely antique colonial decor, consisting of deep wood furniture, neutral-tone linens and artwork, wood-beam ceilings (often painted white and vaulted), and poster beds with sheer drapes or ottomans. Concrete or hard wood floors, antiques, and ceramics add additional elegance. Wood-trim doorways open onto private furnished verandas under lantern-flanked beams, plus private gardens, although some outdoor spaces are more appealing than others. Phones, cable flat-screen TVs, kettles for tea- and coffee- making, minibars or mini-fridges, and AC come standard, plus safes, slippers, and robes in heavy oak wardrobes.

At 1066 and 2110 square feet (99 and 196 square meters), respectively, two upper-level Suites are veritably palatial, with expansive living rooms, and staggeringly huge bathrooms with clawfoot tubs and double vanities. Their private balconies are extensively furnished, and private butlers are available 24/7. Note, however, that they're reached by stairs. Tired-looking wet rooms aren't always in keeping with otherwise lavish decor in rooms, but they're large and have rainfall showerheads, mirrors, and ample toiletries. Note, Wi-Fi can be weak in some rooms.

Features aren't the most extensive here, but they're mostly high-end. The infinity outdoor pool is a serene space, bordered by jungle on one end, and a handful of cushioned loungers, sofas, and umbrellas at the other. Exotic foliage here shades white wrought-iron seating, although these are tired-looking. Guests tend to appreciate the various Ayurvedic spa treatments on offer, but there's only one treatment room and no other wellness facilities.  is incense-filled, and woods here echo the colonial theme. Boat trips along the river are particularly popular, with wildlife easy to spot here. 

Floor-to-ceiling windows fill large archways at The Tamarind Hill Restaurant, where international cuisine includes Sri Lankan delicacies. Included in some packages, a la carte breakfasts offer local options (to be booked the night before), plus made-to-order American and continental dishes, fresh-squeezed juices, tea, and coffee. Semi-outdoor lounges with wicker seating offer charming courtyard vistas under beamed ceilings, and Ceylon teas are popular here. Sit-up stools at a white bar are traditional, as are its menu of cocktails and soft drinks. The 24-hour concierge can arrange transport and laundry, and guest computer use is free. Parking is free, as is Wi-Fi throughout.