Wattala Resorts

The surrounding environment is OK, just by the sea, relatively quiet

This hotel is in Wattala which is only 7km from the Fort train station but feels ages away. Service - excellent. As in all areas of Sri Lanka the staff are very friendly and helpful. All say hello and genuinely seem to enjoy their jobs. There seems to be an army of cleaners and wait staff and again, all are friendly with very good English. The doorman was my favourite with a massive smile and great personality! There were some issues with the half-board deal I was on regarding when and where you can have the half board - which is only breakfast and dinner although on Trip it reads like you have a choice of when you can have your two meals a day. So just clarify when you arrive to be sure. Facilities - big open ground, big swimming pool which you could do laps in if you wanted but also with decent steps on the side so younger children can play. There is also a small children's pool too which is adjacent to the big pool and next to the sun bathing area which has around 10 sun chairs in pairs with an umbrella and small table around the grass area, with more chairs and beanbags set up on the higher area. I have seen big groups playing team games, cricket, football, some weird waterpolo/volleyball/handball game in the pool and even a few keen cricket players today. Restaurant - the floor level open air restaurant is well staffed, nicely proportioned and the buffet breakfast, lunch or dinner is extensive (if a little repetitive after three days). On some occasions there was live music which was nice and not overpowering, playing mainly English music. Bar - The Fishery is the outdoor restaurant for al e carte food service and some drinks. You can choose to sit under the roof bar area or under trees next to it, on big picnic style seating. Gym - this is located next to the pool/restaurant and although it is a bit tired, it has everything you need. The running machines are a bit clunky but at least they work, the weight machines are a little stiff to move but again they are functional. There are free weights and area to work out - even a small space for yoga or stretching if thats your thing. There is also air conditioning - and in 30+ heat, very much needed! Downside - its a bit hard to get to and you have to take a taxi or tuk tuk (don't pay anything over 5,000 for this!). The beach which you can see and hear, is very close but not suitable for swimming - especially for young children. Also the beach isn't particularly clean - outside the hotel the beach is raked for appearances, but walk 50m to your left or right, and its not too pretty! Not really a downside but be aware that if you are here in weekend, this place seems to host a lot of parties, weddings and events - which is great energy with lots of noise and atmosphere. It is a lot quieter in the week days. And the pool becomes full in the afternoons!!!