The South - Sri Lanka - page 262

Frangipani Tree BOUTIQUE HOTEL
( 228 3711; www.thefrangipanitree.com ;Galle-Matara Rd;ste from US$250; )
Cement of all things is the basis for this starkly modern vision of contemporary architec-
ture on the beach. There are nine suites in three beach houses here and you can pick from
various sizes. All have soaring ceilings, private verandahs and views of the ocean. The
narrow beach is the very picture of a palm-shaded cliche.
Why House BOUTIQUE HOTEL
( 222 7599; www.whyhousesrilanka.com ;off Galle-Matara Rd;r from US$250; )
Well, why not? You'll feel like you're staying at a private estate at this small hotel set in-
land in a green respite. Rooms are in the colonial main house or cottages. Personal service
is emphasised, children are catered to and all manner of meals can be prepared. Look for
the turn off the main road at the 124km marker.
Era Beach Hotel BOUTIQUE HOTEL
( 228 2302; www.jetwinghotels.com ;Galle-Matara Rd;r US$90-200; )
Small boutique hotel where wood and stone combine to create a Zen-like sense of happi-
ness (the beachside setting and gorgeous pool help out with this too). However, some of
the six rooms catch a little road noise. The pool is vast and angles around the public
spaces. The beach is dreamy.
Wijaya INTERNATIONAL
( 228 3610;Galle-Matara Rd;mains from Rs 800; 9am-11pm; )
The high-class option along the coast, Wijaya is hugely popular with local expats, who
flock in for its pizza cooked in wood-burning ovens. Many never quite get past the dramat-
ic views at this seaside location just 2km east of Unawatuna. The bar is skilled and the sea-
food specials also win raves.