Thambapanni Retreat

As the middle child of Unawatuna's three Thambapanni/Thaproban boutiques, Thambapanni Retreat opened its garden gates in 2002 as a low-key, dependable mid-range boutique. Since then, though, the hotel has added two Superior Bungalows and upgraded their spa to an Ayurvedic treatment facility, and the hotel has a bright and fresh look that combines traditional South Asian architecture with classic colonial elements. Expect to see hardwood and polished cement floors, carved wood decor, A-frame roofs, rattan and cane furniture, and modern minimalist accents. The result is a perfectly balanced vibe of old and new. 

The hotel is split into two buildings, a main building that houses most hotel features (and many of the rooms), and an annex building next door. The annex building has less personality, but may be better for those seeking more privacy, peace, and quiet. However, the hotel's main building has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere as well, with piped music in the dining area, people splashing or sunning by the pool, a few guests quietly reading on their balconies or in the poolside lounge area, or having a spirited meal in the restaurant. If you're looking to party, this is probably not the place -- guests include couples and families.

Thambapanni Retreat's location down the end of a quiet side street is a nice respite from the hectic car, tuk-tuk, and pedestrian traffic that clutters the tourist-heavy town's narrow main drag. Even so, the hotel is within easy walking distance to several shops, tour operators, restaurants, hotel bars, and the beach. It's a 10-minute walk to hotel's sister property, Thaproban Beach House, at the edge of Unawatuna's more lively environs. While the beach is physically only about a 5-minute walk from the hotel, finding a spot to access the beach can be a little tricky. For a less built-up beach experience, Jungle Beach, located in a reserve adjacent to Unawatuna town, is 15-minutes away by road. Day trips to Sinharaja Forest Reserve are 2 hours each way, while popular sights like the Galle Fort and Galle Fort Lighthouse are only 15-minutes north by car. Seasonal whale watching in Mirissa is an hour away. Colombo International Airport should take just over two hours to reach by road.

There's an undeniable charm and simplicity to the fresh, homey rooms at this hotel. White walls provide a blank canvas for attractive accents, like hardwood or patterned glazed concrete floors, distressed wood furniture, carved wooden canopy beds, quilts, and bright textiles. Some have painted wooden ceilings, lending an extra dash of rustic flavor. There are several different room categories available, ranging from Standard Rooms to Superior Bungalows, but amenities are consistent across the board and the main variable is size. All rooms include air-conditioning, skylights, flat-screen TVs, desks, cinnamon essential oil, and minibars. Rooms above the Standard category also have furnished balconies or terraces, though some are shared. Additionally, second floor Standard Rooms in the main building are privy to the sounds of early morning yoga.  Bathrooms vary, but all are modern, and include rainfall showerheads. Many bathrooms are partially outdoors, and have shower/tub combos or fully private outdoor tubs. All include shampoo, lotion, dental kits, and bar soap. Some guests report humid conditions in the annex building's Standard Rooms, especially during monsoon season. For an extra sense of privacy, opt for one of the new Superior Bungalows or Tower Suites; these have lots of space, a totally private outdoor garden tub, a large dressing area between the bedroom and bathroom, and a private balcony with rattan chairs that overlook the pool and garden. 

Thambapanni Retreat may be a small mid-range boutique, but that doesn't stop it from offering as many features as it can comfortably fit on or off site. While some may give it a pass because it's not directly kissing the sands of Unawatuna Bay, the bang-for-the-buck features range from the Ayurvedic spa to the outdoor swimming pool with a small bar. The spa and Ayurveda program is led by a certified Ayurvedic practitioner and there's a wellness regimen (including meals) plus a full-range of Ayurvedic spa treatments on offer. The hotel also runs free morning yoga classes (pre-registration required), and there's a nightly themed live cooking station with a selection of fresh-caught local fish. The restaurant has a hearty breakfast including Sri Lankan or Western items, though the menu stays the same for lunch and dinner service and the selection is a bit slim with inclusive meal plans. Note that there is no beef on the menu, and breakfast is not included with room rates. 

The Thambapanni Retreat provides free transport to both Thaproban Beach House (directly on a wide stretch of red Unawatuna Bay sand) and Thaproban Pavilion (against a wild and rocky coastline with a separate manmade private beach). Thambapanni Retreat guests get full access to all facilities at these properties, and can even charge food and drink purchases back to their room. The hotel also has a selection of licensed and insured excursions that cover the most popular spots across Sri Lanka. Wi-Fi and parking are free, and most ground-floor areas are wheelchair accessible.