7 July 2023 10:17 am Views - 94
The adventurous can do the Loris Trail where the Grey Selder Loris could be spotted. The natural forest
is magical...
The Sigiriya Rock, a World Heritage site, is rich in history. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle, the Cùavamsa, this area was a large forest. This site was selected by King Kashyapa (AD 477–495) for his new capital. He built his palace on top of the rock in the area and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of the rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place originated from this structure: Sìnhàgiri, the Lion Rock. Climbing this rock is necessary to recognize the amazing capabilities of how such a structure was built back in the day. It is mystifying.
Just five kilometers away from this wonder, by the forest is another property, Jetwing Vil Uyana, a place that exudes calmness, coolness, equanimity, serenity and stillness. Vil Uyana can be enjoyed throughout the year since there is not much rain in the area, the reason for renowned architect Sunela Jayawardane designing this amazing Resort around open concepts. There are five categories of dwellings at Vil Uyana.
Forest Dwellings, with a private swimming pool, are built at the highest point of the property. Water Dwellings are built on stilts over the resident lake. Paddy Dwellings looking over the luscious paddy fields feature private plunge pools. Marsh Dwellings look over the scrublands, two of which have plunge pools. Garden Dwellings are of varying sizes and share the pleasure of a private lounge area. All the Dwellings are super comfortable and very private.
The Apsara Restaurant is where the general dining happens. Alternative dining experiences are available on request. Kamatha, dining near the paddy fields or, if feeling adventurous, dinner in the tree house is also possible. Secluded dining at the edge of the pool deck or on the helipad area can also be requested. A Farmers’ Lunch on the farm premises is where the Hotel’s vegetables are grown and cooked for a diner’s pleasure. Five acres of the property is paddy land with two harvests in the Yala and Maha seasons. A Unique Wine Cellar, built with railway sleepers, offers wines from all regions of the world. The Graphite, and air-conditioned Bar, boasts of prints of the Sigiriya frescoes on its walls.
The adventurous can do the Loris Trail where the Grey Selder Loris could be spotted. The natural forest is magical and the chances of sighting a crocodile or an elephant and fishing cats are likely. The bird life is also amazing.
The Island Spa at the Resort offers a menu with a variety of Balinese style treatments. Chef Asanka Buddika whips out flavourful dishes using all local ingredients as much as possible. These are delicious. Seated in the Sulang cafe I had a chat with Priyanthika, Director of Vil Uyana and Jetwing Lake, who is doing an excellent job of running both properties. She recommended Vil Uyana for total relaxation, being that it is close to nature and allows for the enjoyment of the environment and, most of all, the personalized service. The staff are extremely hospitable and always with a smile, something that all Jetwing properties can boast about.
I had not been to Vil Uyana for many years. I enjoyed every moment and will be happy to spend a longer vacation in the near future.