A place where the wildlife from the bush also roams the beach, Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s raw beauties.
Travelling from Colombo, Yala National Park is a good six-hour drive that takes you through the beautiful countryside towns and along the coastline. As you get closer to Yala National Park, the wildlife greets you and you can often spot elephants grazing by the road.
Here you will find Jetwing Yala and Jetwing Safari camp, positioned between the Indian Ocean and the natural wonders of Yala National Park. These two Jetwing properties rest within an uncharted patch of coastal wilderness at the end of Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. However, they are both very different in their style and offering.
Jetwing Yala
A place to really immerse yourself in nature while still enjoying the luxury of a 5-star property, Jetwing Yala sits harmoniously in its surroundings with a tread lightly approach to tourism. There is no time or schedules. Just a relaxed atmosphere where you can fill your days at your own pace.
The Hotel
There are only a handful of places on earth where you may wake up to the calls of a tropical wild while also listening to the sound of crashing waves on the beach. Emerging out of the coastal wilderness, Jetwing Yala embodies the true spirit of nature with a balance of sustainable coexistence. This commitment to sustainability remains at the heart of Jetwing properties, and it is no different at Jetwing Yala. The property sets an example for responsible tourism with a number of initiatives that preserve, protect, and promote the luxurious surroundings.
The Rooms
As one of the largest hotels in Yala, Jetwing Yala boasts 80 luxurious rooms amidst the coastal wilds. Like the rest of the property, these rooms are designed to harmoniously coexist with the magnificent natural surroundings. The rooms feature hues of red and green to immerse you in the tropical vibrancy while being tastefully designed as contemporary spaces. Modern amenities come as a standard, including a well-stocked mini-bar, free Wi-Fi and telephone and eco-friendly bathroom amenities. There is a dedicated sitting area and plush bathroom with a luxury shower enclosure and an open-air balcony or terrace, which seamlessly integrates with the beauty of the natural surroundings. There are three types of rooms; 45 Superior Rooms are available with either a private balcony or terrace that looks out into the resident coastal wilderness, 34 Deluxe Rooms share the same features with the luxury of added space, and the exclusive Family Room with a generous 106 square metres of elegance that also includes a separate living area.
The Dining
There are a number of dining options at Jetwing Yala to suit any mood or occasion. Overlooking the coastline, The Restaurant is the prime dining space. Live action stations plate up a range of global and local delicacies that include seafood, tapas, and more, for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For a more fine dining experience there is Thambapanni – an alternative dining option specializing in Asian Fusion cuisine with dishes that draw inspiration from Sri Lanka and nations from India to Indonesia and beyond. The Bar is located past the reception and also looks out onto the horizon, with both indoor and outdoor seating to experience the best of Yala’s inviting ambience. For a refreshing treat there is the Pool Bar which serves as a more laid-back option to enjoy a cocktail. Towards the edge of the ocean is the Beach Bar with an exclusive lounge area, a great spot to watch the sun set over the blue sea with a refreshing drink in hand. For something extra special, why not indulge in a Signature Dining experiences, including meals amidst unique settings within the resident landscapes. For instance, you may choose to enjoy your dinner atop the characteristic dunes of Yala’s coastline, or alfresco under the starlit sky of our wild landscapes. The option of dining by our poolside is also available, along with the preparation of a Wild BBQ for the more adventurous. But if you wish to keep things simple, you may also dine from the privacy and comforts of your own room.
The Details
Address: Jetwing Yala, Palatupana, Kirinda, Yala, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 47-4710710
Reservations: +94 114 709 400 or email resv.yala@jetwinghotels.com
Website: http://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingyala
Jetwing Safari Camp
Glamping in Sri Lanka doesn’t get much better than at Jetwing Safari Camp, located in the picturesque dunes of coastal Yala. A sister property to Jetwing Yala, at Jetwing Safari Camp you can really get amongst nature while still enjoying the luxury of Jetwing Yala.
The Camp
Ten rustic tents are a graceful step up from the simple collapsible poles and fabric, but remain a natural fit to the surrounds, complemented by the soothing rumble of the ocean and the cooling breeze. Each tent has a spacious wooden deck where guests can sit and enjoy the surrounds and watch wildlife such as deer, wild boars, birds and reptiles that occasionally visit the grounds. There is a main reception area with a small dining room and rooftop view point for drinks in the afternoon to watch the sun set.
The Rooms
Elegant tents bring together the pleasure of camping with creature comforts of modern living. Fitted with a modern shower enclosure and washroom, an air cooler, and freely available Wi-Fi, these tents have all you need. A large comfortable bed sits in the centre of the tent and there is plenty of space for storage. A very large bathroom is stocked with eco-friendly amenities and there is even an outdoor shower for those who really want to feel at one with nature.
The Dining
A stay at Jetwing Safari Camp comes with a personalised butler at your service. Meals can be pre-ordered and enjoyed on your deck. Alternatively, you can choose to sip on seaside cocktails at the Beach Bar or enjoy your food and beverage at any one the five dining options at Jetwing Yala – located just short buggy ride away.
The Details
Address: Jetwing Safari Camp, Palatupana, Kirinda, Yala, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 47 471 0755
Reservations: +94 11 470 9400 or email resv.safaricamp@jetwinghotels.com
Website: http://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingsafaricamp