Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo

Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo, a Michelin Key Selected property, stands as a distinguished boutique hotel in Sri Lanka's capital, offering a unique blend of history, sophisticated design, and attentive service. Once a political abode, this revamped mansion has garnered significant praise for its intimate ambiance and luxurious offerings.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus among guests is overwhelmingly positive, with the hotel frequently described as "exceptional" and "one of the best" they have ever stayed in. It consistently receives high ratings for staff (9.6 on Booking.com, 9.4 on Hotels.com), cleanliness (9.2 on Booking.com, 9.4 on Hotels.com), and comfort (9.1 on Booking.com). Many consider it a "sanctuary" and a "special and very relaxing place" in the bustling city.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo:

• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's "history-steeped designer haven" aesthetic, with its elegant interiors, curated art, and blend of colonial charm with contemporary elegance, is a major draw. The signature ivory and black monochrome palette, along with original period features, creates a luxurious and artful environment.
• Service & Staff: The "outstanding," "exceptionally helpful and kind," and "attentive" staff receive widespread acclaim. Guests frequently highlight the personalized and professional service, with staff going "the extra mile" to ensure a memorable stay.
• Location: Situated in the "elite environs" of Cinnamon Gardens, the hotel offers a tranquil and peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Its proximity to embassies, government buildings, and attractions like the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre is also appreciated.
• Amenities: The hotel boasts a lap pool, a gym, a steam room, a library, and private dining options, all contributing to a luxurious and relaxing experience.

3. Room Quality

The 10 individually designed suites are considered real gems. They are described as spacious, beautifully appointed, and exuding history and occasion. Features include:

• Comfort: "Marshmallow-soft, Egyptian cotton sheets" and "possibly the most comfortable beds" are frequently mentioned.
• Design: Rooms are decorated in "rich, dark colors" with plush contemporary furnishings, often featuring goth black floors and dark antique furniture with brass fittings.
• Luxurious Bathrooms: En-suite bathrooms are decked in earth stone, often featuring his-and-her sinks, rain showers, and generous deep soaking bathtubs.
• Suite Variations: Superior Suites may offer private plunge pools and leafy terraces, while Executive Suites often have balconies or terraces with sun loungers. Royal Suites, one of which hosted King Charles, are particularly noted for their exceptional design.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo is generally highly praised.

• Restaurant Quality: The two on-site restaurants, including The Dining Room and The Courtyard, serve international cuisine. The food is consistently rated as "excellent," "delicious," and "top-notch," with some guests even noting "Michelin star flavors." The dinner menu is well-curated, and the service quality is considered on par with the food.
• Breakfast: A "massive breakfast" is included, with options ranging from Continental, Full English/Irish, and Asian to Vegetarian, Halal, and Gluten-free, available à la carte. The Sri Lankan breakfast is particularly recommended, though it often requires ordering the night before. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the air-conditioned Dining Room or on the Courtyard's veranda.
• Bars & Cafes: The hotel also features a sultry bar, "The Red Bar," described as a dramatic and snug space, along with a coffee shop/cafe.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff are consistently highlighted as a major strength of Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo.

• Hospitality: Guests describe the staff as "warm and attentive," "friendly," "well-trained," and "professional." They are praised for making guests feel welcomed and well taken care of.
• Above and Beyond: Numerous anecdotes illustrate the staff's dedication, such as surprising guests with celebration cakes for honeymoons or even shipping forgotten reading glasses internationally.
• Efficiency: Check-in is often described as swift and seamless.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel is ideally located in the "well-heeled Cinnamon Gardens district" of Colombo.

• Neighborhood: This area is known for its lush greenery, elegant colonial architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, offering a tranquil sanctuary away from the city's noise. It's often referred to as Colombo's diplomatic quarter.
• Attractions: Many places of interest are within easy walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride, including Odel department store, the Gallery Café, and the Saskia Fernando Gallery. The Royal Colombo Golf Club is also a short drive away.
• Transport: The hotel is approximately an hour from Bandaranaike International Airport and about 30 minutes from Ratmalana Airport, with taxis or private transfers being convenient options.

7. Value & Pricing

Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo is a luxury property, with prices starting from approximately $250.00 per night. While some reviews don't explicitly discuss "value for money," the overwhelming positive sentiment and the description of the hotel as an "opulently appointed historic home" suggest that guests generally find the experience to be worth the cost. The Michelin Key selection also implies a certain level of quality and value.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor issues have been noted by guests:

• Dining Room Lighting: The indoor breakfast room can be "a little low on light" or "low light in downstairs dining room."
• Food Dating: One review suggested that while the food is good, it "feels dated," and there's "some work to be done" to make the dining truly top-notch for a boutique hotel.
• Maintenance: Some exterior areas, such as the breakfast patio walls and patio umbrellas, have shown signs of damp and mould, suggesting a need for more consistent exterior maintenance due to the challenging climate.
• Air Conditioning: On one occasion, the air conditioning was noted as being "too cold" and needing adjustment.
• Laundry Service Cost: One guest found the laundry service to be very expensive, suggesting it would be cheaper to buy new clothes.

Sources

1. mrandmrssmith.com
2. agoda.com
3. booking.com
4. booking.com
5. hotels.com
6. makemytrip.com
7. eatgosee.com
8. michelin.com
9. trip.com
10. expedia.com