Description
Designed by Channa Daswatte, a sought-after local architect and protégé of the famous Geoffrey Bawa, Frangipani Tree is a tranquil and luxurious setting. Windows and verandahs that open onto the Indian Ocean, high-clay tiled roofs, cooling cement floors, courtyards with frangipani trees, white washed walls and interiors with contemporary timber and steel furniture make this a luxurious yet homely getaway. Frangipani Tree's Pakistani owner also owns Fort Printers, another exquisite boutique hotel inside Galle's Dutch Fort.
The main entrance opens onto a spectacular view of the pool and the ocean beyond. An aromatherapy Spa with an array of relaxing therapies is located in the garden just by the beach. Personal yoga sessions are arranged upon request. Western and Sri Lankan dishes are served at Frangipani Tree prepared with locally purchased fresh vegetables and seafood brought right to the doorstep. Meal times are special here with much care taken over creating the right ambience. They are served according to the guests wishes including on your own verandah, in the garden, by the poolside or even on the beach.
Most guests may never want to Frangipani and its secluded beach, which is relatively safe for swimming especially from November to February. Observe the fascinating nesting ritual of the marine turtles. Globally, all seven species of marine turtles existing are endangered. Of these, five come ashore in Sri Lanka. The process of marine turtles nesting, hatchlings being born, and swimming back to sea is a ritual that can be observed at night just by Frangipani Tree. For those interested in surfing and watersports, the beaches of Unawatuna and Mirissa are ideal. Other activities on offer include sailing, fishing, coastal cruises, river trips, sea kayaking, snorkelling and boating. Koggala Lake, with its many tiny islands inhabited with several species of birds, is another wonderful experience. We recommend a visit to the historic 17th Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow streets lined with Dutch and British colonial era buildings which are still in use, sturdy ramparts looking out to sea, the lighthouse, and a growing collection of art galleries and several boutique hotels. Stop by at Frangipani Tree’s sister property - the Fort Printers for a sumptuous meal. The staff there will be happy to assist guests with information on the Galle Fort.
Accommodation
Frangipani Tree has ten luxurious and utterly private suites in four villas named after the marine turtles of Sri Lanka that come to nest on a nearby beach. Each of the elegantly-furnished suites can be rented individually. They have covered terraces and verandahs which are perfect for private dining, a/c and overhead fans, customised bedroom furniture and bathroom fittings including stylish cement bath tubs. High-quality linen, including your choice of pillows, iPod station and iPod.
Childcare
Children are welcome but there are no specific facilities.
Facilities
Facilities at the hotel include a swimming pool, tennis court, an aromatherapy Spa with an array of relaxing therapies located in the garden just by the beach. Western and Sri Lankan dishes are served at Frangipani Tree prepared with locally purchased fresh vegetables and seafood brought right to the doorstep.
Activities
Activities on offer at the hotel include swimming, tennis, yoga classes and spa treatments. Other activities nearby include watersports, sailing, fishing, coastal cruises, river trips, sea kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving and boating.
When to travel
From May to August the Yala monsoon brings rain to the island’s southwestern half. The southwest has the highest rainfall – up to 4000mm a year. There is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November when rain can occur in many parts of the island. Colombo and the low-lying coastal regions have an average temperature of 27°C. The sea stays at around 27°C all year. Climatically speaking, the driest (and best) seasons in Sri Lanka are from December to March for the west and south coasts.
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Best time to visit
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Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
South Coast, Sri Lanka
Frangipani Tree is set at the edge of a secluded beach in the fishing village of Thalpe, ideally located to explore the diverse southern heritage and the sun-kissed beaches of the south coast.
How to get there
10-hour 45-minute direct flight to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From the airport to we recommend leaving 4-hours for the journey to The Frangipani Tree.
