Negombo7.27117400,
79.84907900,
No. 106/a, St. Mary's Road, Pallansena, Kochchikade(Show on Map)
8.9
Excellent
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Summary of reviewsWaterland, situated at the mouth of the Maoya River near Negombo, offers an idyllic retreat that combines stunning natural beauty with modern luxury. Guests consistently praise its tranquil setting, which provides breathtaking river views while remaining conveniently close to the airport. The boutique-style accommodation at Waterland features modern villas equipped with private pools, creating an intimate and luxurious experience.
The breakfast experience at Waterland is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, offering a delightful array of fresh and delicious options, from freshly ground coffee to memorable French toast. A unique aspect is the ability to enjoy breakfast on floating trays in the pool, adding an enjoyable twist to mornings at the resort. Dinner experiences, while mixed due to cost and menu limitations, are generally celebrated for their authentic Sri Lankan flavors and settings, such as dining on the terrace or pool deck. Particularly noted is the coconut and lemongrass soup, showcasing exceptional culinary skills.
The rooms at Waterland receive high praise for their spacious and beautifully appointed interiors, combining kitschy decor with polished marble finishes to create charming and sophisticated spaces. Guests enjoy the magnificent views, especially from the Elephant Villa, which is lauded for its hidden gem status and stunning surroundings. Cleanliness is a hallmark of Waterland, with both rooms and villas maintained to high standards. The attentive and friendly staff further enhance the experience, consistently providing exceptional service and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Despite mixed reviews regarding Wi-Fi connectivity, the overall guest experience remains positive, with the impressive private pools often being a highlight. These pools offer a serene and luxurious getaway, complemented by scenic surroundings and attentive service. Finally, the beds at Waterland are frequently commended for their comfort, ensuring restful nights for guests.
Overall, Waterland delivers a memorable and indulgent experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility, stunning views, and modern amenities in a serene river village setting. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Luxury Hotel
This 5-star boutique hotel offers luxurious villas with private pools, set amidst natural beauty bordered by a river, canal, and coconut plantation. It provides a tranquil retreat with amenities like an infinity-edge plunge pool with each villa, an on-site spa offering various treatments, and a restaurant with diverse cuisine.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Waterland sources over 90% of its electricity from solar power. The hotel was developed from a coconut plantation and focuses on providing a tranquil, natural environment.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Waterland provides a unique experience with its distinctive setting and tranquil atmosphere. The hotel's design and amenities create a memorable and relaxing stay for couples.
Romantic Hotel
Offers a unique experience with its eco-friendly design and tranquil surroundings. Its peaceful atmosphere and natural setting make it a relaxing choice for couples seeking a quiet getaway.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Waterland provides private villas, each with its own infinity-edge plunge pool. This feature allows for a secluded and luxurious swimming experience, complemented by beautifully appointed rooms and relaxing grounds.
Private Pool Outdoor Pool
Small Hotel
This hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and a picnic area. Shuttle service is available. It is also known for exceptional service, attention to detail, and unique design elements.
5-Star Hotel
Waterland is known for its tranquil setting and personalized service. It offers comfortable accommodations, a serene atmosphere, and various amenities, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay. It has been rated with excellent reviews.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Waterland offers a unique pool experience with each of its five villas featuring a private infinity-edge plunge pool. This provides an exclusive and intimate swimming environment for guests.
Hotel with Private Pool Rooms
Waterland offers an exceptional private pool experience with spacious pools, some featuring stunning river views and infinity-edge plunge pools within fully enclosed private courtyards. The property provides various villa types with private pools, ensuring a luxurious and intimate getaway.
Hotel with Parking
Room Types
Studio Villa with Private Pool - Two Beers per Room per StayStudio Villa with Private Pool (Lotus and Fire Villa):
- Fully enclosed pool area for maximum privacy
- Completely private 8 foot x 14 foot infinity-edge plunge pool. The plunge pool is 4 feet deep.
- 2 Sun beds
- King size 4-poster bed
- Sofa and coffee table
- Bathroom with rain shower
- Side deck with chairs and table for private dining
Deluxe Two Bedroom Villa with Private PoolDeluxe Two Bedroom Villa with Private Pool (Peacock Villa)
- 2 King size beds
- 2 En suite bathrooms with rain showers
- Magnificent upstairs deck serves as outdoor living room with panoramic views of the surrounding water. From the upstairs deck, watch the sunset over the ocean and watch hundreds of bats migrate over the river as the sun sets.
- Downstairs is a spacious dining room for private dining. The dining room has lovely views and a gentle breeze from the permeable walls. The dining room also has a games table. Several games in the villa provide added entertainment for children.
- Large triangle-shaped infinity-edge plunge pool. The plunge pool is 4 feet deep
- Private garden
Superior Studio Villa with Private PoolStudio Villa with Private Pool (Elephant Villa)
- River-front studio villa with panoramic views of the river
- Private riverside dining
- 8 foot x 14 foot infinity-edge plunge pool. The plunge pool is 4 feet deep.
- 2 Sun beds
- King size bed with spectacular canopy
- Bathroom with rain shower and private garden
- Sofa and coffee table
Three Bedroom Villa with Private PoolThe Monsoon Villa features hardwood floors, carved antique doors, and colonial era almaris (wardrobes).
This family villa has 2 air-conditioned bedrooms and 1 fan-cooled bedroom. The 2 air-conditioned bedrooms have kind size 4-poster beds. The fan-cooled bedroom has a queen size bed. The villa has 2 stunning bathrooms. The bathrooms have waterfall faucets, wall-mounted toilets, and soothing rain fall showers.
Indoor and outdoor spaces blend together. The accommodation includes a living room built in a Balinese style, with 3 walls and the 4th side open to the elements. A shallow reflecting pool in the living room merges into the outdoor infinity-edge plunge pool. The plunge pool is 3 feet 6 inches deep.
Large picture windows in the bedrooms provide lovely views of a neighboring coconut plantation.
From the living room, pool, and deck, there are commanding views of the Dutch Canal.
The Monsoon Villa Suite is 1 floor up and has no garden.
Guest Reviews
8.9
Excellent
Location
Nestled at the mouth of the Maoya River, Waterland offers an unparalleled location that captivates with its beauty and tranquility. The property's unique position provides breathtaking views of the river and lush natural surroundings, creating an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Negombo. Despite its secluded charm, the retreat remains conveniently close to the airport, easily accessible within a 35-minute drive, yet comfortably distant from the city's traffic and noise.
Guests speak highly of the serene setting, describing it as a peaceful haven where the only interruptions to the quiet come from the occasional motorboat. The boutique-style accommodation features modern villas, each equipped with a private pool, ample comfort, and thoughtful amenities, making the stay both luxurious and intimate.
Waterland's ambiance is complemented by attentive service, with the friendly staff and exemplary host ensuring a relaxed and memorable experience. While the dining area is described as quiet, some visitors noted a preference for more flexible meal planning. Nonetheless, the overall experience is one of relaxation and indulgence, set against the stunning backdrop of a beautiful river village.
Breakfast
Breakfast at Waterland is truly an experience worth waking up for, featuring a delightful and delicious spread that guests have praised for its excellence. The food is consistently described as delicious, with a variety of fresh and flavorful options catering to different tastes. Guests can indulge in a wide range of delicious offerings, from freshly ground morning coffee to yummy French toast that leaves a lasting impression. A particularly unique and cherished aspect is the ability to enjoy breakfast in the pool on floating trays, adding a novel twist to the start of the day.
While there is a highlight on the abundant and large servings, some reviews mention limitations in the menu variety, suggesting room for improvement in this area. Nonetheless, guests frequently commend the breakfast for its freshness and taste, citing it as one of their favorite meals during their stay. Despite some critiques regarding a simpler menu, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many guests rating their breakfast experience highly, making it a standout feature of the dining options at Waterland.
Dinner
Dinner at Waterland offers a mixed experience but leans significantly towards the positive. Guests have found the dinner excellent, describing it as exquisite and enjoyable, particularly when served on the terrace. Many praised the authentic Sri Lankan flavors, with specific mention of a standout coconut and lemongrass soup. Despite some limitations in food choice, the meals are generally well-organized, delicious, and can be enjoyed in unique settings like the pool deck. However, there are concerns about cost, with some guests feeling that meals are expensive for what’s offered. Ordering dinner in advance is necessary, and while the experience can occasionally lack novelty, the taste usually compensates. Although some found dinner only adequate or lacking in flavor, many emphasize the impressive culinary skill evident in each dish.
Rooms
Waterland offers an exceptional accommodation experience, characterized by spacious and beautifully appointed rooms that cater to a wide range of preferences. Guests praise the unique decor, which may lean towards the kitschy side but ultimately contributes to the charming atmosphere. One standout option is the Elephant Villa, described as a hidden gem, offering stunning views and a magnificent private pool surrounded by lush greenery.
The villas boast interiors that are both well-designed and elegantly furnished, with polished marble finishes adding a touch of sophistication. The rooms are equipped with everything guests could desire, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests appreciate the large bathrooms and spacious living areas, contributing to a pampering experience.
Waterland stands out for its cleanliness, with both the rooms and the entire facility maintaining high standards. The grounds feature spectacular villas with private pools, allowing for moments of peace away from the hustle and bustle. The location is noted for its proximity to the airport, making it an ideal choice for a first or last night stay.
The views from the rooms are another highlight, with guests enjoying lovely vistas of the river from balconies on the second floor. The accommodation offers ample opportunities to relax, whether around the garden or on the terrace. Despite a weaker Wifi signal, the quality of service and amenities are highly regarded.
Dining options at Waterland are noted for their delicious offerings, though some guests may find the restaurant prices a bit steep for Sri Lanka. Overall, Waterland provides a charming and personal environment, perfect for travelers seeking spacious, well-maintained, and beautifully appointed accommodations with exceptional private pools.
Beds
Waterland receives high praise for its beds, often described as extremely comfortable and cozy. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional comfort of the bedding, making sleep a delight. These large, inviting beds offer plenty of space, ensuring a restful experience. Many reviewers rank their stay at Waterland highly, crediting their restful nights to the superior quality and comfort of the beds and pillows. The accommodation strikes an ideal balance between comfort and size, with bedding and air conditioning enhancing the overall experience.
Cleanliness
Waterland stands out for its exceptional dedication to cleanliness, offering a pristine experience that guests consistently appreciate. The villa and bungalows are described as spotless and well-maintained, contributing to a sense of comfort and luxury. Rooms are not only very clean but also spacious and beautifully appointed, ensuring guests have everything they could need for a relaxing stay. The spacious bathrooms, often featuring rain showers, further enhance the luxurious feel.
The warm and kind staff complement the immaculate environment, adding to the overall exceptional experience, particularly with features such as private pools enhancing the setting. While the property is somewhat isolated, requiring transportation to reach town, the tranquil atmosphere of Waterland is a perfect retreat from the bustling city life.
Staff
The staff at Waterland consistently receive glowing praise for their exceptional service and welcoming demeanor. Guests frequently note the friendliness and attentiveness of the entire team, highlighting their ability to not only meet but often exceed expectations. The staff are described as being polite, respectful, and incredibly helpful, always eager to assist with any needs, whether it's arranging transportation or packing a takeaway breakfast for an early start. From the efficient check-in process upon arrival to their consistent helpfulness throughout guests' stays, the staff ensure a seamless experience. Their unwavering kindness and positive attitude create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making guests feel valued and well-cared-for. The staff's commitment to providing outstanding service is reflected in their attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile, making a stay at Waterland an unforgettable experience.
Wi-Fi
Travelers visiting Waterland can expect mixed reviews when it comes to the hotel's Wi-Fi connectivity. While some guests have found the Wi-Fi to work perfectly and praised its reliability, others have encountered issues with weak signals and patchy service. Feedback indicates that the Wi-Fi experience tends to vary across different areas of the hotel, such as the Fire Villa, where it was described as adequate, but room for improvement exists. For those who prioritize stable internet access during their stay, it might be wise to consider purchasing a SIM card from the airport to ensure seamless connectivity. Despite these varied experiences, it seems that expectations should be managed regarding the hotel's current Wi-Fi offerings.
Pool
Waterland offers an exceptional retreat characterized by its stunning array of private pools that impress guests with both their size and their luxurious features. Visitors delight in the unique experience of having a private plunge pool, some of which offer a dreamlike seclusion and even partially extend into the living room. The infinity pool is consistently highlighted as amazing and offers a breathtaking view over the river, making it a favored spot for relaxation. Each villa, elegantly designed and limited to just five in total, ensures privacy and tranquility, creating an idyllic escape. The allure of these private pools is further enhanced by the scenic surroundings and the luxury of unobstructed views. Accompanying the poolside enjoyment is a large, delicious breakfast that is perfectly served by the pool, adding to the overall charm and appeal. Finally, visitors appreciate the attentive staff who help make their stay as comfortable as possible while enjoying the calm environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet within a convenient half-hour walk from the center.
Private Pool
Waterland offers an exceptional experience with its private pools, consistently impressing guests. These spacious pools, often accompanied by stunning views of the river, elevate the overall stay, providing a luxurious and intimate getaway. The villas, described as beautiful and exceptionally well-appointed, host these pools, making the accommodations equally remarkable. Guests commend the beautiful setting and the kindness of the staff, further enhancing their experience. Such amenities, including the sublime private pools, create a memorable and special retreat for all who visit.
Yes, Waterland has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Private Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Waterland.
No, Waterland doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Waterland.