Aliya Resort and Spa - Thema Collection

We were lucky enough to stay in a suite and it was huge. The kids loved the outside space. The breakfast buffet was great, loads of choice. We didn't have the dinner buffet but the al a carte menu was good. The night trail guided walk was great.

There was a bit of a mix up in the beginning about whether the kids were allowed in the infinity pool and we were made to feel a bit unwelcome there on our first day. I spoke to reception and they cleared up the matter quickly and the kids had a great time in the pool for the rest of our stay.

The pool is the centrepiece of the hotel and is absolutely beautiful with great views of Lion's rock and pool bar service available all day. The rooms are comfortable, clean and spacious. The staff were all very helpful throughout our stay, but I must give a special mention to Shashi! She was incredibly helpful to me from before we arrived in arranging a surprise proposal for my partner. She arranged floral room decorations, candles, champagne and a cake and everything was executed perfectly! Thank you Shashi for making our stay so great!

Amazing pool and breakfast and dinner options

Not close to any shops but the hotel has everything onsite

Loved the lush setting, the pool and the staff. Easy access to elephant reserves and Sigiriya Lion Rock.

It was a total surprise to be greeted with such an amazing vista from reception and it continued to amaze us throughout our stay. The pool was fabulous and such a haven of peace and tranquility while the complimentary activities such as pottery making, elephant paining and yoga were much appreciated.

Nothing other than quite weak coffee at breakfast.

A lovely location with beautiful views looking out to Sigiriya Rock. The rooms were clean and a nice size and the food was delicious. We enjoyed the infinity swimming pool with the outstanding views that stretched for miles.

Leaving

The cabin room is incredible. You have this feeling of being in the wild while in reality you are surrounded by comfort. The entrance is as well scenic particularly if you arrive at night. Unfortunately we had just one night so we could not have the time for the spa or the rest of facilities. The pool is well designed to compensate the few beds. We tried the Sri Lanka restaurant. We recommend it but not late booking since you could risk got finished before you can do a second round.

If I have to find something, the common area with the bar and breakfast restaurant is not at the level, I believe they could upgrade the space a bit keeping the same line of the rest of the resort. The cappuccino machine was also broken however the staff is good so they compensate with smiles and service.

Location and view

Nothing

Pool itself is amazing/ massive and the view is outstanding/magical. Usually a good rice and curry selection. Rooms are very spacious with amenities and fresh fruit basket. Very friendly staff in spa and reception, very helpful Organising transport to Sigiriya. Spa treatments very relaxing and reasonably priced! Grounds are beautifully kept. Signature cocktails are delicious!

Not enough space for people to sit and enjoy the view. Especially at dinner time since dinner buffet doesn’t open till 7.30pm so everyone is like hungry sitting ducks, but if you are not sat say before 6.30pm there is no other space for guests to be other than their room? It’s a shame/ lack of utilisation of space. Same with pool area, could even put some more tables down below for people to sit. The Sri Lankan restaurant, nice service and atmosphere but very overpriced, and was too Much food for just two people (& we are Big Eaters) Can only hope it didn’t go to waste , not sure how well t’s working as a concept/ could be advertised more to offer an alternative to buffet. Rooms are very comfortable however unfortunately we had a bottom room Near the start of the entrance so felt like we just couldn’t have our blinds up or everyone could see in. Thus, was quite dark. Also occasionally slow service with drinks both in buffet breakfast / dinner and at pool. The hotel has so Much potential to really reach 5 * , but at times felt like 3* . Compared to other hotels I’ve stayed in Sri Lanka For the same price it didn’t quite have the same feeling of luxury/ seamless service/ use of facilities . Would definitely stay again though (mostly for the view alone)! I’m only being so critical because of the higher price.