RIU - resplendent resort at Ahungalle | Sunday Observer

RIU - resplendent resort at Ahungalle

2 July, 2017

The magnificent white structure of the RIU resort boldly rises on the shoreline of the serene Ahungalle beach. With 501 rooms this is Sri Lanka’s largest all inclusive resort, that has been in operation for almost a year. The large and spacious lobby gives you glimpses of the emerald blue waters of the ocean. The lobby lights encased in cane frames suspended from the ceiling enhance the exotic ambience that permeates the property.

Structural planning and positioning are imperative for a successful hotel operation, and RIU brilliantly redefines luxury with a new style of building that allows for easy access. On the left side are the hotel’s restaurants, taking you on a culinary voyage.

The lounge and bars are positioned on the right. At the centre of the resort is a green natural promenade bursting with tropical palms, which serenade you towards the infinity swimming pool.

As you unwind and enjoy your vacation the resort has a mélange of food. The Riti Panna restaurant has a succulent buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The venue has seating facilities in air-conditioned comfort or you can be seated in the open verandah with the sea breeze gently drifting in. The in-house yogurts at breakfast are splendid. The Saute restaurant gives diners an opulent experience as one can enjoy prime cuts of steak cooked to your desire. For those who want to indulge in Asian flavours the Kaori restaurant dishes out fusion cuisine that reflects Asian regions. The Ceylon restaurant has local cuisine which can be relished by the foreign and local gourmet. For those who crave Italian delicacies the La Forchetta serves authentic Italian delights.

In addition to these eating options, RIU resort has a cozy poolside bar named Flamingo where snacks and beverages are served. The view from the infinity pool is total bliss. After walking on the beach and soaking in the majestic view of the sunset I enjoyed a cup of coffee at the Purple Lounge.

You can let yourself be captivated at the Renova Spa and allow your mind to be rejuvenated and also patronize the gym.

The rooms at RIU bring in a new dimension to comfort, with large windows that open out to a private balcony. The white interior in bold tones of brown are well balanced. All the rooms display a different angle of the ocean, as the waves keep relentlessly coming ashore.

It was lovely to see a catamaran with her sail, navigating the vast sea. After dinner, the resort is alive and happening with theme shows at their custom built stage. The manifestation of dance acts to pulsating music by the in-house animation team is truly admirable. The music overwhelms you long after you can enter the Pacha Disco and move to the vibrant grooves.

Resident Manager Nandana Jayasuriya tells me that “RIU is happy to invest in Sri Lanka, and offer guests a unique, all inclusive form of hospitality”. Having worked with RIU chain in many countries Nandana is happy to be back after a spell of 35 years. All RIU hotels are administered by their head office based in Spain. The resort is ideal for a holiday, as Ahungalle is a destination with its own unique charm.

Comments