19 August 2010 03:02 pm Views - 10123
We were sold, hook line and sinker so decided to head to Sigiriya to see for ourselves what the resort had to offer. Having left Colombo fairly early, the drive was smooth and traffic free and we arrived in time for lunch. First impressions count and being greeted with warm towels and cool papaya drinks eased us into our holiday in style..
Wild Grass has 5 villas designed for double and triple occupancy with twin villas that can house four adults and 2 children. A twin villa was our abode for the night and we came across many a lizard and the unfamiliar sounds of insects and bugs buzzing away in broad day light. The large villa, ideally for families, stood tall.
Designed with glass doors and windows furnished with simple wood. My favorite feature of the villa was that they had used wood instead of metal for furnishing and I think nothing brings out atmosphere and coziness in a room like wood. Each villa consists one living room, bedroom, terrace, private garden and an open air solar shower.
In addition, the villa was equipped with a large flat screen television provided with an infinite number of channels and an interesting selection of books for those who prefer the quiet of in-room holidaying.
After exploring the villa, we decided to head towards a lake located close to the resort. Our tired minds were automatically refreshed at the sight of un-spoilt greenery bedecked with a small lake in the middle of it. Stalks and eagles flew freely above us enjoying unlimited air space.
In the perspective of activities, one can explore the outdoors and the forest by mountain hiking, cycling (which the resort provides), fishing, animal and bird watching. Wild Grass also organizes trips to heritage sites including the Rock Fortress in Sigiriya, Dambulla and the Minneriya sanctuary.
While ambling about the premises, one is bound to cross paths or witness a graceful peacock sauntering about casually. Apart from all the hiking and cycling, the resort also has a pool for those who want to unwind and relax with a swim.
Meals at Wild Grass were delicious. For lunch we were served yellow rice, brinjal moju, chicken curry, dhal curry and fried ‘wew malu’ which was divine! Dinner was served at the roof top of the restaurant.
The ambience was lovely as the view of the entire surrounding was presented to us while we sat a notch closer to the night skies of Sigiriya. The three course meal included seafood ravioli, mushroom soup, stuffed yellow fin jack and crepe suzette for dessert. I was impressed with the meals - and my taste buds are difficult to please.
The man behind these impressive meals is none other than Tissa Perera, General Manager of Wild Grass who is also the Chef at the restaurant.
Speaking to Mr. Perera, he said he entered the hospitality industry at the age of 21 and has been consumed by it. His passion has taken him overseas to the Middle East and the Maldives.
I personally enjoyed my experience at Wild Grass. After a stressful week, it was nice to get away from the hassle of city life by escaping to the jungle. The hospitality and service provided by the staff at the resort was great as everyone was friendly and willing to help - even when I displayed my clumsiness quite openly.
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