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Ocean meets jungle

Resplendent Ceylon’s latest creation is Wild Coast Tented Lodge, adjacent to the world famous Yala National Park, renowned for its dense leopard population.

30 April 2020

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This spectacular luxury tented camp is situated in a stunning location where the jungle meets a pristine beach, overlooking the blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge’s design, masterminded by a consortium of Dutch, English and Sri Lankan designers, sees the man-made structures blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape thanks to the use of carefully selected natural materials. The use of arched fabric structures allows each of the twenty eight cocoon tents to take on the shape and colour of the rocks and boulders that lay scattered nearby, whilst a clever layout in the shape of a leopard’s paw print alludes to the area’s most famous resident.

While the main buildings, made of bamboo, blend in with the distinctive rock formations of Yala, the tents, called Cocoons & Urchins, truly represent a luxury five star resort room under canvas, offering state-of-the art amenities including air-conditioning.

The open-air bamboo-clad Bar and Dining Pavilion – designed to mirror the boulders scattered across the golden beach beyond – wrap around the resort’s enormous free-form swimming pool.

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Guests can enjoy creative daily-changing menus of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in the restaurant, as well as sundowner cocktails and picnics al fresco on the sand dunes, watching dusk settle over the Indian Ocean. The library doubles up as an educational centre where guests learn about the wildlife in the park and watch documentaries, further explained by the lodge’s expert guides.

All Resplendent Ceylon resorts are underpinned by an unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical business practice, which Wild Coast exemplifies. Water is desalinated from the ocean and recycled into water holes for animals to drink from, a solar plant meets energy needs, and organic waste is composted on site. The hotel is building a conservation centre dedicated to monitoring and protecting vulnerable wildlife within the surrounding area, including the Sri Lankan leopard.

The 55-square-metre, king-bedded Cocoon Suites boast soaring vaulted ceilings, offering jungle views from the double-height double glazed facades.

The interiors fuse colonial expedition chic with contemporary design innovations, from freestanding handmade copper bathtubs to sumptuous four-poster beds. Teak floors and canvas walls complement dark leather touches and repurposed metallic hardware for an eclectic and design-led aesthetic. The Cocoons are dotted around watering holes attracting wildlife, which can be viewed from outdoor decks. Four secluded beachside Cocoon Pool Suites also offer private plunge pools. The Family Cocoon Suites sport an adjoining twin-bedded 20-square-metre Urchin, perfect for older kids, offering privacy and space for parents and children alike. All rooms offer air conditioning, teak floors, wi-fi, included minibar and Sonos audio.

A nature-lover’s paradise, Wild Coast offers exceptional wilderness experiences, allowing guests to immerse themselves in some of the richest biodiversity in Sri Lanka. Vehicles will whisk guests to the quietest corners of Yala National Park, whilst rangers will be on hand to talk guests through the incredible diversity of flora and fauna, including elephants, sloth bears and leopards. A variety of lectures and workshops, with focuses ranging from wild elephant behaviour to bird watching and nature walks, will offer an insight into the fascinating natural surroundings.

When dining at Wild Coast Tented Lodge you’ll be treated to an array of gourmet safari cuisine with a Sri Lankan flair, served in the elegant bamboo Dining Pavilion open to the ocean breezes.

Breakfast features a wide array of traditional Sri Lankan & international breakfast favourites. Lunch is a la carte with perennial favourites featuring a wild coast twist. Post evening game drive cocktails and snacks takes place on the beach. Dinner is a wondrous affair featuring uniquely wild coast fare, inspired by nature and the freshness of local produce.

The Sanctuary Spa at Wild Coast Tented Lodge is a tropical haven for the Spa enthusiast. Situated in one of the most vibrant and spectacular settings in Sri Lanka, bordering pristine ocean and dense bush, it is blessed with fresh ocean breezes. Key to their wellness experience are two native Sri Lankan ingredients, Ceylon Tea and Ceylon Cinnamon, both of which are used liberally in oils, scrubs and poultices.

resplendentceylon.com

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