Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, buzzes with people and energy. For most people on a tour of Sri Lanka – a stop in Colombo is part of their trip. It is then no surprise that the city is home to a wide range of accommodations, including larger resort-type 5-star hotels, quaint boutique hotels, grand heritage hotels and comfortable contemporary accommodations. While it is easy to be overwhelmed by the selection, an obvious choice for one of the best luxury hotels in Colombo is Residence by Uga Escapes.
Residence undoubtedly vies for a top spot on a list of favourite hotels in Colombo. Like its other sister properties by UGA Escapes, the hotel offers personalised services coupled with luxury. Boutique in style and size and hidden amid the urban jungle of Colombo is this beautifully restored Victorian home. This elegant property has welcomed governors, and maharajas, and is home to several Sri Lanka’s elite families in its 180-year-old history.
The property comprises 11 beautiful rooms converted into luxury suites for guests, out of which one is the larger Residence Suite. All suites have individual courtyards for privacy and can be used for private dining. The Residence Suite has the ultra-luxury of a large courtyard. All suites are designed to perfection with a mix of elegance, warm colour tones, varied textures and a bit of added fuss and luxury that makes it feel that you are royalty. We like the contrast of the more muted décor in the common areas to the suites, the leather sofas in the bar and the Belgian rugs.
Residence by UGA in Colombo boasts a swimming pool that is located centrally on the property giving easy access to guests. While you are unlikely to stay the entire day in the pool, it acts as a good option to cool off on a hot Colombo afternoon. The bar is known for a good range of whiskeys, however, don’t let it stop you if your choice is elsewhere, the bartenders do a good cocktail or just go for an afternoon with a glass of bubbles with a high tea. Who is to stop you with such sweet indulgences? We love the afternoon high tea for sure.
One of our favourite things about this property is the food. The cuisine is unmatchable. Rare, the hotel’s restaurant which is also open to the public, provides some of the best contemporary Sri Lanka fine dining we have tried across the country. Even if you aren’t staying at Residence, we strongly recommend making a booking for dinner at Rare. It’s one of the best things to do in Colombo and will provide you with a glimpse of the country’s up-and-coming food scene.
There are plenty of things to see and do nearby. Residence is centrally located in Colombo, allowing you easy access to many of the city’s top attractions. The Gangarama Temple is just a quick walk down the street, as is Beira Lake. You can explore Colombo’s upcoming designer wear in the adjoining Park Street Mews or walk up to Paradise Road Boutique to get a few chic souvenirs. Go for a walk down the street or catch a tuk-tuk to explore street food if you have some time to roam carelessly.
The residence is centrally located, as such giving easy access to shopping in Colombo, restaurants and bars. Step out and you will see Colombo in swing on Friday and Saturday nights. However, it’s guaranteed that you will not be disturbed inside the oasis of Residence.
This property is ideal for an overnight stay at the start or the end of a round tour. It is an easy 45-minute drive both ways to the airport. A two-night stay is recommended to explore Colombo in depth if you have the luxury of time. It is also the best option if you are looking for a mix of heritage, luxury and contemporary, a difficult mix indeed in one place which Residence by Uga Escapes offers. The cuisine is certainly a notch above the rest and another reason to pick this property.
