Tintagel Colombo

About

Tintagel,is named after a dramatic 13th century English castle famous as the birth place of the legendary King Arthur. Like its namesake,Tintagel Colombo is a historical landmark. Nestled in the most elite neighbourhood of Colombo and dating back to the 1930s it was first home to 100 British military officers and then the personal residence of three of the most well known political leaders of Sri Lanka. Amongst them Mrs Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the first female prime minister in the world.

As you approach along the majestic drive you are welcomed by the smiling staff. A sense of history pervades your senses as you take in the stunning, classically white structure in the style of a colonial mansion. As you walk in, the soporific sound of running water, the perfume of freshly gathered flowers and the quiet strains of classical music immediately soothes you. Tintagel, Colombo's foremost luxury hotel, is the concept of Shan Fernando of Paradise Road fame. From the Parisian gilt chandeliers, mirrors and candelabra from the Napoleonic Era, the hand painted elegant columns and polished warm wooden flooring to the handpicked paintings, photographs and antiques, it is an expression of his signature style and love of classical art and culture. Tintagel offers much to the guest who wants only to enjoy a quiet holiday within its own confines.

A personal favourite is the cosy little library with wall to wall shelves of leather bound books. From PD Wodehouse to Paulo Coelho to Shan's personal collection of books on art and design, it is a library to entice and excite any book lover. Throw in a well equipped mini gym, pool, sauna and massage room and you have for yourself an oasis of comfort and luxury in the heart of the city. If you are a history buff you can be sure they will be only too eager to intrigue you with stories about Tintagel.

Created with a passion for beauty, art and attention to detail, Tintagel promises an experience of serenity, intimacy and history to the discerning traveller looking forward to a private and luxurious getaway, in the heart of paradise.

Rooms

Tintagel boasts 10 individually designed suites complete with all modern amenities and services including complementary wifi services and cable tv connections.

Rare antiques furnish each room underlining the sense of history that is so characteristic of Tintagel. Pristine white linen on the four poster beds and custom made soft furnishings highlight the individual design of each room creating an aura of cultured and luxurious comfort. The 3 Superior suites, with their spacious sitting room areas can be converted to comfortably house a party of four.

The renowned Tintagel experience has beckoned many travellers to enjoy the comforts and pleasures it offers. Among one of the most recent is Ms Olivia Harris, wife of George Harris of Beatles fame. Her favourite room is the South West Suite, which was formerly the room of Mrs Sirimavo Bandaranaike.

The North West Suite

This delightful Honeymoon Suite is complete with its own personal plunge pool set in a tiny intimate garden. From its spacious sitting room and generous walk- in closet area, the inviting four poster with its crisp white linen, to the sunlight that streams in to bathe its grey striped walls, this suite makes you want to stay forever. The bathroom, complete with a bathtub for two, is huge and evident of Bawa influence in its minimalistic elegance. Its tasteful design and layout transport you back to a by-gone era of luxury and comfort, from the custom made furnishing, to the handpicked paintings, photographs and antiques, it is an expression of his signature style and love of classical art and culture.

Dining

Shan is as famous for his Gallery Cafe as he is for Paradise Road. A lover of food as he is of art, Gallery Cafe has been long famed in Colombo for its fabulous fusion menu. His love for all things culinary spills over to the food served at Tintagel.
Your personal preference is paramount. Choose room service if you crave privacy, socialse at the Red Bar, or choose the sunkissed patio with its white rattan furniture for a perfect brunch. A candle lit dinner on your suite balcony is one option or maybe you would rather join the cheerful buzz in the dining room that is always busy with non-resident diners who like to treat themselves to a Tintagel Signature Dish. Whatever your preference the staff of Tintagel will happily comply.
Fusion is Shan’s style. His all day fusion menus combine the best of ingredients and flavours, both local and imported, giving them a special twist. Even some of the popular continental dishes have a Sri Lankan or Asian flavour. The extensive menu includes the best cuts of imported steak, local fresh sea food prepared with exotic dressings, and many vegetarian options. The lobster and crab Fettucine, baked tart of crab and coriander, walnut and feta filled mushrooms wrapped in bacon with balsamic dressing, and the succulent and tender New Zealand rack of lamb are just few of the delights. But make sure you leave room for the desserts. The home made ice cream is just lovely on a tropical afternoon, especially the creamy coconut one. The creme brule, double chocolate cheese cake are fabulous too but don’t miss the Black cherry, strawberry and white wine pudding served with fresh whipped cream.
The daily high tea and the set menu for lunch are alternatives to check out. Experiment with the juices made with exotic local fruit but the homemade gingerbeer chilled to perfection is the pick on a lazy afternoon.
The quality of the food is consistent, the presentation artistic and service is typical of Tintagel’s impeccable style with its flexibility and eagerness to serve and delight.