Anilana, Nilaveli Sri Lanka, East Coast

Anilana Nilaveli offers a contemporary style in a good location on Nilaveli Beach just north of Trincomalee. Nilaveli is a great base for enjoying the beach, sailing trips, diving, snorkelling and whale watching in Trincomalee Bay, as well as local excursions to places like the hot springs and the various temples locally. There are plenty of scenic natural surroundings for exploring inland, too. Downtime at the hotel is all about the lovely pool and beach frontage, the rejuvenating spa treatments, and enjoying drinks on the rooftop bar.

There are several room types: deluxe rooms, pool chalets, studios, and suites. They are all well furnished, spacious, and feature modern technology and a private terrace or balcony. The pool chalets are by far the best rooms as you can step directly to the poolside and you are close to the glorious beach. They also have rooftops for sun soaking and outdoor showers. For extra space, book an Anilana Studio with an oversized king bed and private balcony.

The great plus points for Anilana Nilaveli are the spacious modern rooms, a pool, and the beautiful beach front. The buffet meals and the large building housing the majority of the rooms means that it does lack that exclusive feel, though. The service, as with many places on the east coast, is a little rusty.

A good comfortable option for a few days relaxing on the lovely Nilaveli sands.