Chena Huts: Wildlife meets Indulgence
For centuries in the deep south, Sri Lanka’s oldest and second-largest forest reserve, Yala; has insistently been divided by a belt of semi-protected jungles in which people have farmed minor clearings known as ‘Chena’ whilst inhabiting modest huts to protect their crops from Wild animals. Implicating such a rustic form to the most lavish and distinctive setting; Chena Huts Yala, Sri Lanka’s first luxury safari lodge is now pristinely nestled among the dunes and in the wilderness of these semi-protected jungles. Fringed one side by the virgin seashore, this lavish dwelling embraces the spirit of the location beyond just design and furniture; ascertaining a real soul into the entire property.
Fringed by a seashore habituated by sea-turtles at night and seldom visits by elephants from the nearby jungle; Chena Huts is enclosed by the tropical jungle on one landward side and the waters of the Indian Ocean and salty lake on the other; a truly enthralling experience in a terrific location! Located 315km from the Colombo International airport and 20km from the nearest town, Tissamaharama; Chena Huts lies at the end of a specially constructed road, well off the beaten track; endowing the fervent traveler the opportunity to commune closely with nature.
Transported by a comfortable buggy from the resort’s parking entrance to the main reception; we were warmly greeted by a refreshing wood apple juice and gracious staff, who undeniably went out of their way to ease the check-in process with their amiable persona and service. Implicating the rural outset yet irrefutably in a luxurious form, the framework of the reception is tailored to a modern-style hut enclosed by a well-rounded pond in which lush green lotus leaves & plants and different types of fish/insects adorn the setting. Subsequently connected by a miniature wooden bridge, the reception leads to an outer-deck of the resort; which encompasses of the plush Basses restaurant, a modest bar and an open-air deck perfected by an alluring beachfront and an enchanting lake bordering the property.
Besides, the spectacular daily safari escapades to witness elephants, exotic bird life and leopards OR perhaps exploring the nearby pristine beach or a lake (you might be lucky enough to witness elephants bathing!); when not out-and-about on a wildlife expedition, you can relax in your plush accommodation in one of the 14 elegant cabins! Maintaining the rustic-hut style approach this spacious 7-acre property accommodates 14 elegant Guest Cabins, each designed to complement the jungle environment with interiors moderately accentuating a slight ‘Safari Theme’ of earthly interiors, sumptuous soft furnishings and African-style & pastoral motifs that belie the contemporary conception within; an authentic rendezvous in which wildlife meets indulgence.
Each guest cabin is encompassed of a living area, a cozy Bedroom, an en suite bathroom and to complete the frost on the cake; a shaded private deck perfected by your own 5m plunge pool (ideal for honeymooners!!) making one feel submerged in this fantastic location! What bliss it would be at the end of the day to simply sink into the your plunge pool with a refreshing cocktail and perhaps a good book; while sounds of distant wildlife and the salty fresh air truly harmonize your wilderness experience.
Imbibing its name from the adjacent reefs and lighthouse, the fine dining experience at the Basses restaurant is a worthy mention. Although the meal options are fairly limited; the 3-course meal was presented eloquently with much detail and never failed to surprise one with its delectable and distinctive flavors.
A noteworthy mention must be made to the lip-smacking desserts; particularly the home-made tiramisu! For those seeking unique dining options; Chena Huts offers a spectacularly out-of-the way-location to either take your meals by the beach under the stars or near a bonfire!
An intriguing sight that caught my attention was the breathtaking vista of the swimming pool. The green-tiled design of the pool, its adjacent cascading waterfall-like style and the impeccable harmonization with the surrounding wilderness is indeed a picture-perfect sight!
Further, amid such a secluded sanctuary Chena Huts also offers a perfect retreat for personal pampering in its luxurious spa boutique. Artistically erected by a pile of cinnamon sticks the entrance to the luxury spa is adorned in an Arch-style distinctive underpass; creating an ideal atmosphere in which to experience the serenity of the Ayurveda treatments.
You only need to engage in a short walk in any direction to find yourself surrounded by the pristine wildness and at the same time enjoy comfort in luxurious isolated pavilions or ‘huts’ offering panoramic views of the wildlife and ocean. I believe I have gotten you all excited now? So come witness and experience this unspoiled environment within the secluded lavish sanctuary of Chena Huts.
For more information email: [email protected] Call 00 9411 2462 7739 or visit our website for more information: www.srilankatailormade.com
