Leading new-generation hotel operator, Cantaloupe Hotels Group, has launched a series of unique natural habitat guest experiences that blend the spirit of sustainability with a stylish stay at each of its two boutique hotels in Galle, on Sri Lanka’s stunning south coast.
Cantaloupe Aqua, which opened in Talpe in 2013, features 15 contemporary rooms overlooking the beach, while Cantaloupe Levels, opened shortly afterwards, faces Galle Bay in Rumassala, looking out over the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort with short-walk access to Jungle Beach near the iconic Peace Pagoda.
Cantaloupe Hotels Galle – Aqua
Cantaloupe Hotels Galle – Levels
The two hip hideaways have combined to offer ‘Big Blue’ experiences, taking guests out into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and to the heart of one of the most ideal breeding grounds for marine animals in the world.
With nothing but an expanse of ocean separating Sri Lanka from Antarctica, the waters off the island’s south coast are home to a breath-taking array of marine mammals, including dolphins, sperm whales, pilot whales and blue whales.
And with the breeding ground for a 200-strong pod of blue whales lying just six miles offshore, there are few better places to see the largest animal ever to inhabit the Earth in its natural environment.
“It’s a celebration more than anything else,”
said Cantaloupe Hotels Group Director, Nadeem Rajabdeen.
“We are blessed with an incredible environment so we want to showcase this to guests. It is a marine safari if you like – but one that needs to be delivered with sensitivity and insight.
“It is a core part of our philosophy as hoteliers. We feel incredibly excited about revealing our heritage, culture, environment and food – which is another huge area that is undergoing a massive renaissance. And there’s no better place than Galle to start this journey.”
Cantaloupe Hotels Galle Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Guests at both Cantaloupe Aqua and Cantaloupe Levels can encounter these leviathans in the company of an expert guide, with a series of energising multi-day experiences that also include visits to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.
This not-for-profit organisation is dedicated to the conservation of five of the seven recognised species of sea turtle worldwide, which return to Sri Lanka’s beaches every year to lay their eggs. Some discovered are up to 150 years old.
Cantaloupe Hotels Galle – Levels
At Cantaloupe Aqua, the Big Blue package rates start from USD $880 (approximately AUD $1,100) for a three-night/four-day package, and from USD $1,350 (approximately AUD $1,700) for a seven-night/eight-day package, based on double occupancy.
This package includes accommodation in an Aqua Ocean Play room with daily breakfast and Wi-Fi, airport transfers, a whale-watching experience and a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, plus a Sri Lankan dining experience for two.
Cantaloupe Hotels Galle – Levels
At Cantaloupe Levels, the Big Blue packages start from USD $1,100 (approximately AUD $1,390) for a three-night/four-day package, and from USD $1,800 (approximately AUD $2,275) for a seven-night/eight-day package, based on double occupancy.
This package includes accommodation in a Deluxe Silhouette room with daily breakfast and Wi-Fi, an airport transfer, plus the whale-watching experience, visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery and Sri Lankan dining experience.
The dining element of the packages demonstrates the company’s commitment to authentic cooking techniques and locally-sourced ingredients.
Sri Lankan cuisine is famed for its fresh flavours and incredible seafood, and guests at both hotels will be able to experience the country’s culinary traditions throughout their stay.
Cantaloupe Hotels Galle
While travel to Sri Lanka is growing in popularity, the country still only welcomed two million arrivals in 2016, meaning it is still relatively untouched by global tourism.
Conservation is the key to the country’s sustainable growth and development, and with Cantaloupe Hotels Group’s young team having pledged to preserve their natural habitat and native culture, the future of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry is entering exciting times.
Package rates valid for travel from 1st October to 23rd December 2017. Other rates apply for alternative dates of stay.
For more information and bookings, click here
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