Lake Cabin

Une belle adresse face au lac, au calme. Un bon petit-déjeuner. Notre hôte nous a fourni en location des vélos pour rejoindre le centre et le site archéologique de Polonnaruwa. Volonté de répondre à tous nos besoins? Hôte très disponible

Localisation au calme dans un écrin de verdure, mais qui nécessite un vélo pour rejoindre le centre car assez isolé

La terasse donnait sur le lac, c’était exceptionnel. Délicieux petit déjeuner inclus. On recommande le tour du lac le matin, proposé par l’hôte. Un moment magique où nous avons eu la chance de voir des éléphants et des buffles. On recommande également de louer des vélos pour visiter le site archéologique. Hôte arrangeant et de bon conseil pour les restaurants

Ottima posizione, staff molto accogliente e sempre disponibile.

Perfect location, right at the edge of the forest. So nice to sit outside and watch the fishermen and the birds. Breakfast was so good too.

We got kicked out halfway through our stay as there was apparently a glitch with booking.com so that was disappointing

Ottima posizione, struttura integrata nel territorio, bellissima vista sul lago. Molto apprezzata la disponibilità e gentilezza da parte dell’host.

tanti insetti

Absolutely amazing views from the cabin! We unfortunately didn't see any elephants, but sunrise was magical none the less. The balcony also feels very private. The cabin is simple, and a little sparse, but the bed is comfy and clean. Breakfast was good! This location is great if you want to get away from the very touristy crowds.

The owner uses mothballs against unwanted critters, but since the cabin is so small and the many mosquitos outside, it's impossible to get the smell out. It was too strong for us.

Hôte trés accueillant.

Posto spettacolare immerso nella natura, alla casina non manca nulla. Alla mattina è possibile vedere uccelli e animali selvatici. lo staff è gentile e disponibile, cena e colazione buonissime.

Fijne uitvalsbasis voor ancient city en mooi uitzicht vanaf de veranda

Beautiful place, very quiet, lovely view of the lake. Incredible value, the host bent over backwards to make the stay truly memorable and very informative.Such a nice guy.Room was lovely and extremely well equipped, electric kettle, cups,tea and sugar,bottled water, even a bottle opener tied to the outside balcony/terrace.Bathroom clean and well stocked,soap, shampoo, toilet paper and lots of towels plus hot water for the best shower, I didn't need that luxury as I am very happy to take a cold shower in the heat of the dry season. Air-conditioning worked really well, there's also a fan if you don't like aircon. Highly recommend staying here, it's very private and quiet and such value. Breakfast is included in the price and it was lovely.

Nothing, it's a super place.

Very unique stay, close to nature, very kind host and great activities to choose from! The cabin is clean and comfortable, parking spot is useful and very close to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The breakfast was delicious and we absolutely enjoyed the boat ride early in the morning out on the lake!

Small, cozy cabin on the lakeside. It had everything that was needed (hot water, ac, mosquito net, comfy bed), but note that it is indeed small, and a bit remote from the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Our host, Sanka was extremely helpful, and friendly, helped us organise our visit to the ancient city, and our transfer.

Fantastic view from the room, great if you are into bird watching. I had a stork-billed kingfisher from the balcony! The host was very nice and accommodating, renting bicycles to us to visit the nearby ancient city of Polonnaruwa - and the food was tasty.

This was just a wonderful place to stay. So peaceful sitting on the verandah watching life on the lake. It was also very thoughtfully equipped with tea, kettle, citronella coil etc. I'd definitely go back again.

Stunning lakeside location - lots of birds to watch. Sanka was a very helpful host and organised an elephant safari and took us to the ancient city.

It is fairly basic with not a lot around. As long as that is what you like it is a good place to stay.

This was the simplest accomodation I stayed in during my trip and also my favourite. The little chalet with the balcony on the lake was incredibly peaceful and relaxing, and Sanka was a very kind host. Little touches like a bottle opener and lighter/ mosquito coil were very thoughtful

A pair of binoculars to borrow to see the birds better would be very welcome

I loved the location over looking the lake watching the sun rise and set - birdie was amazing. The option to use their bicycle to different places was a real bonus.

I would have like the balcony to have fly screen to enjoy sitting outside longer and a fly screen over the window so I could have the window open instead of using the AC

We loved the place... and then Sanka served us our delicious breakfast on our balcony, which was the cherry on top.

Accueil excellent, notre hôte nous a attendu jusque tard dans la soirée. Petite cabine fonctionnelle mais avec une vue à couper le souffle.

位置清幽，環境舒適，晚餐烤雞腿超好吃

沒有

The location and the views are beautiful. We loved the Cabin. The host Sanka was outstanding. Super helpful. Very efficient. Delicious simple breakfast served with real style. Perfect location to visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Sanka arranged for us to go on a boat trip with Damith which was one of our highlights. We saw 4 elephants including a Tusker and an amazing array of birds. It is great value for money with a totally magical view of the Lake down the end of a residential road. A classical Sri Lankan fusion of both wilderness and the hustle bustle of life all mixed together.

Nothing.

Cute and simple little cabin,as expected from Booking.com. Really basic but ok for the price.

This is maybe my favorite place I stayed in two weeks in Sri Lanka. There is an absolutely glorious covered balcony/sitting area right on the lake, which you honestly could spend an entire day on, watching the buffalo migrate, the birds and monkeys, the sunset, and the fishermen launching out. The room is pleasingly minimalist and very clean, and you can sit on the bed and look out onto the lake and stars. I was worried about mosquitos, but outside of dawn and dusk, I really didn't encounter any (in spite of recent rains). The location is wonderful, down a quieter lane off the highway (about 10 minutes walk from the "Bendiwewa School" bus stop), and 10 minutes by bike to the Polonnoruwa ruins. Last but not least, hands down the best coconut roti I had in all of Sri Lanka. I genuinely would travel to Polonnoruwa again just to stay here.

Peaceful and beautiful view. Small but clean and had everything we needed. Proximity to the lake and wildlife.

N/A

Vue imprenable et hôte adorable. Idéal pour une retraite au calme à observer les oiseaux et les pêcheurs. Il n’a fait que pleuvoir pendant notre séjour mais nous avons quand même apprécié.

Cabane un peu humide, mais c’est normal.

Lage direkt am See. Tierbeobachtungen waren toll

De plek is erg mooi, aan het meer.

De cabin was wat stoffig en niet erg schoon.

Sauber und eher einfach, aber tolle Lage. Der Besitzer ist sehr entgegenkommend und das Essen lecker.

Die Moskitos haben uns vertrieben (nur 1 Nacht statt 2). Wir sind aber froh, waren wir eine Nacht an diesem schönen Ort.

Für mich war das ein Traumhäuschen! Die Größe entspricht dem eines Hotelzimmers. Im Garten wächst Yams, der See grenzt direkt an den Balkon, auf dem man am Morgen auch sein Frühstück serviert bekommt, das wirklich sehr lecker war! Am Abend schwamen Wasserbüffel vorbei, am Morgen ein Pelikan. Ein so erholsames und ruhespendendes kleines Paradies! Der Besitzer mit Familie lebt gegenüber und betreibt eine Holzschnitzerei. Er erklärte mir die verschiedenen verwendeten Hölzer und ich staunte wirklich! So eine herzliche Famile mit so wunderbaren Kindern! Hätte ich die Zeit gehabt, hätte ich gerne verlängert!

Alles war wirklich super!

Natur, Ausblick

Einfach, aber für den Preis in Ordnung

Cosy little cabins right on the lakeside. Sanka is a great host and has thought of all small details in the cabins like mosquito coils and a lighter for on the verandah. He arranged an early morning boat trip for us which was excellent. Sadly we had only booked one night as a stop over but wish we could’ve stayed long.

Nothing

It was quiet and comfortable, with a balcony at the back which looked over the lake. Really enjoyed watching the monkeys while eating breakfast. (Spectacularly good banana pancakes - no wonder the monkeys hung around!) Lovely warm shower. And the host, Sanka, is the most kind and generous person we’ve ever met. He is ready to help wherever needed, and will go the extra mile to make sure his guests are happy. Sanka, you’re doing a fabulous job - don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise!

Nothing.

The cabins are very nice although rather small, so having two large suitcases was a bit of a logistical challenge. All this was made up by great views and exceptional hospitality of the owner Mr Sanka.

Very special little place on (practically in) the lake. Super silent, great if you like observing nature and small cabins. Great breakfast and very friendly, reactive host (brought immediately a receiver when I wrote hin that I had no wifi).

I liked that it was a small place and I travelled alone but I imagine for couples it can be a bit small.

L’endroit est top et le propriétaire est aux petits soins. C’est très propre, le repas et le petit déjeuner très bons, un endroit que je recommande vivement !

Vynikající snídaně. Velmi ochotný majitel, který rád poradí. Možnost půjčení kol.

Mooie spot om vogels te kijken vanaf het terras. Dichtbij de oude stad, waar we op de fiets naar toe konden en een heel vriendelijke, behulpzame gastheer.

Het is vrij basic, maar als je dat geen probleem vindt is dat geen probleem.

Sehr freundlich und super Kommunikation. Obwohl ich die Ankunftszeit nicht genau sagen konnte (Fahrradreise) wurde ich erwartet. Die Cabin ist gemütlich, mit schöner Terrasse, einfach aber alles was es braucht. Da wegen einem Wirbelsturm die Weiterfahrt unsicher war, hätte ich noch bleiben können.

Durch den Ablauf im Bad kam öfters ein grösseres Insekt, aber verschwand auch immer wieder in seinem Loch.

The location of the property is fantastic.

Super nice view from the balcony, very calm place. Breakfast was good

Il check- in è stato molto sbrigativo e ho avuto poche informazioni al mio arrivo. Il posto è molto bello, unico nel suo genere. Si possono affittare delle biciclette per girare la zona e a piedi camminare vicino al lago. C’è scritto che ci sono molti insetti ma ho trovato in camera uno scarafaggio molto grande e tanti altri animali ma il proprietario è stato gentile a portarmi uno spray anti animali. Mi ha inoltre accompagnata a fare un massaggio splendido e portato la colazione al mattino.

It was a lovely experience, the host made our stay amazing, was very hospitable and caring and made feel not only welcomed but comfortable like in our home. The lake view is wonderful and the location is very closed to the archaeological site. The host also booked the tuktuk for us. The food was yummy and fresh. It was amazing stay, highly recommended!

Secluded, cozy little cabin with beautiful lakeside views. Isolated enough that you feel alone immersed in the natural surroundings but also very close to the town via foot or bicycle. Sanka took care of us and gave us so many recommendations for local activities and things to do. We hired the bicycles and rode around town which was the best way to see our surrounds.. we really felt like locals. An overall clean and extremely comfortable spot. A wonderful and unique stay. Don’t stay anywhere else. Highly recommend!

Everything was wonderful! Thank you Sanka!

The cabin is nice with a small balcony with view of the lake. The host was very friendly and took me quick to the two wild elephants which where around at the moment.

Die Lage war sensationell, mitten in einem Naturschutzgebiet, wir konnten am Morgen auf unserer kleinen Terasse das Frühstück einnehmen und es war wirkich schön. Der Manager hat uns auch Fahrräder zur Verfügung gestellt, so konnten wir in das nahe gelegene UNESCO Weltkulturerbe anschauen, was uns sehr gut gefallen hat.

Das Fahrrad war zu teuer USD 4, meiner Meinung nach.

Great little spot within a local community

Stunning views and a wonderful breakfast! The host was so nice and welcoming. It was perfect!

El dormir en una reserva natural y disponer de una terraza encarada al parque con posibilidad de visualizar animales

Algo alejado si no dispones de transporte

Lake Cabin ligt vlakbij de oude stad Polonnaruwa. Er worden 2 vrijstaande huisjes verhuurd. Wij hadden het huisje met het erg mooie uitzicht op het meer. De huurauto kon achter het hek op het terrein staan. De tuin zag er netjes en verzorgd uit. Het was er heerlijk rustig. Met een klein trapje ga je het huisje binnen. er is een prima bed, staat met 1 kant tegen de muur. Met koffie -en thee faciliteiten, klamboe en ventilator. Links van de ingang is een eigen badkamer, met blauw sanitair, wastafel, wc en douche (niet blauw) . Niet persé mijn smaak, maar alles werkte goed en het zag er heel schoon uit. Niet luxe, maar helemaal prima. Voldoende verlichting. Door de slaapkamer kom je uit op een overdekt terras met 2 gemakkelijke stoelen, een tafel met 2 krukjes en een fantastisch uitzicht op het meer. We hebben een grote kudde koeien zien badderen, diverse vogels gezien. De eigenaar was heel vriendelijk. Hij legde onze koeltas spullen bij hem in zijn koelkast. Hij heeft voor ons een heerlijke curry gemaakt. In de buurt is ook een man die prachtige houten olifantjes maakt. Helaas mochten wij het zwarte olifantje, ebbenhout, niet kopen, omdat wij dat niet mogen invoeren in NlL Ook heeft de eigenaar voor ons een mooie boottocht geregeld, tijdens de zonsondergang zijn we naar een eiland geroeid. Daar nog 5 olifanten gezien. Prachtig. Ze hadden op 2 van die smalle vissersbootjes een plateau gelegd en 2 plastic stoelen voor de gasten. Ik wilde ook graag roeien, er werd snel een extra peddel voor mij geregeld. Het is zo rustig om daar over dat meer te roeien, te luisteren naar de geluiden om je heen, geen menselijke stemmen te horen. Alleen het geklots van de roeispanen in het water. En dan bij de zonsondergang richting de olifanten roeien. Wow! Daar tenslotte aan land gegaan voor nog meer mooie foto's. Geweldig! We hebben 's avonds nog lekker lang buiten gezeten. We hebben genoten van de rust, het eten, het uitzicht en de boottocht. Aanrader!

Het huisje is eenvoudig, geen luxe maar prima voor ons. Alles werkt prima. Het huisje ligt erg mooi bij dat meer. Oh dit zijn eigenlijk helemaal geen nadelen. Er was ook niets dat ons tegengevallen is. Mss was het eten een klein beetje duurder dan normaal , maar €8 voor 1 persoon valt nog altijd best mee.

L’emplacement, le calme, le petit-déjeuner, le personnel

Casina piccola ma accogliente e pulita. Con aria condizionata e acqua calda. Colazione molto buona con pancakes, raccomandato!

Nulla

Un rincón mágico donde poder disfrutar en primera línea de la naturaleza del entorno. El gerente es súper amable y el desayuno de especialidad que prepara está delicioso!

Ligging: super! Mooi uitzicht, we zagen vanop het bakon veel vogels, aapjes, 2 hertjes. Je kan een wandeling maken langs het meer (gastheer Sanka geeft je uitleg) of een boot (vlot) tochtje : zeer rustgevend en mooi. Tijdens de boottocht zagen we ook enkele olifanten en de zonsondergang. We gingen met de fiets naar Polonnaruwa, wat zeer goed te doen was (wbt afstanden). Heel lekker en verzorgd ontbijt. Sanka is zeer behulpzaam, sympathiek en rustig en stond altijd klaar voor ons. De cabins zelf zijn zeer basic, maar proper. Meer heb je niet nodig! We zouden zeker terugkomen hier.

Small but nice! Surrounded by nature, with a beautiful view from the balcony! Delicious breakfast and a friendly, helpful owner. A wonderful place ☺️.

Unfortunately, in the middle of the night (starting around 3 a.m.), someone was hammering—not an animal noise, but a person, possibly chopping wood. It was very loud. If it hadn't been for that, it would have been perfect! Apart from that, it was quiet, just the sounds of nature.

Everything was great. Both cabins are very neat and clean and cozy with charming views on the lake. Dinner and breakfast were delightful. What makes it special is a fact that you can rent bikes and explore Polonnaruwa by yourself (or with the great host). There are many monkeys, birds and cows around. We slept like babies, no mosquitos.

Location good for birdwatching, and you could observe many birds from the balcony.

On arrival there was nothing appealing about the property. Nothing to give the impression it was cared for. Room was small and rudimentary. Although we were provided with a kettle there was nothing else except a few tea bags. Towels were provided. We were offered use of the bikes and the owner was obliging enough to supply stuff that should have already been in the room, however I just wish the room had been properly prepared beforehand and the place was cleaned up a bit.

Staying at Lake Cabin in Polonnaruwa was an unforgettable experience – not just for its peaceful setting, but for the genuine impact it has on the local community. Nestled in a humble village, this cozy cabin offers simple yet comfortable accommodation with stunning views of the nearby lake and lush surroundings. Western and Srilankan food are verry good 🍴 What truly sets this place apart is the way your visit supports more than just the lovely owners of the cabin. By choosing Lake Cabin, you're also helping local craftsmen , small village shops where you can buy daily essentials, and local guides who offer insightful and affordable excursions to explore the ancient city and surrounding nature. (Boat safari and elephant safari) 🐘 Highly recommended for travelers looking for authenticity, kindness, and purpose.

A fridge would be nice.

You need to understand that this is quite specific place, but if you understand what you are booking, then this place is just great.

We had a wonderful one night stay in the Lake Cabin, the location was perfect and Sanka provided great advice about the local area. We especially loved the view of the lake from our balcony and the banana pancakes for breakfast, also the AC was a treat in the hot weather! We would definitely recommend!

nothing

Very basic accommodation but with amazing view over the lake. Exceptionally good for people interested in bird life photography. We took great pictures of pelicans, kingfishers, herons, eagles and more.

Beautiful view and great watching the monkeys. Basic but clean. Kind staff.

Felt a bit unloved and in need of TLC.

The location was beyond expectations. Two separate cabins were situated next to each other. Each had two double beds, air conditioning, tea or coffee making facilities, a mosquito net and linen and toiletries. There was a small balcony with seating for four persons and the balcony was right next to the electric fence separating the forest reserve around Parakrama Samudraya man made lake. The view in the morning from the balcony was exceptional, and we could watch the sun rise amidst many water and land birds flying around us. We identified a grey heron, purple heron, many king fishers, peacocks, green and blue tailed bee eaters, a crimson backed golden back (woodpecker) among the numerous birds and two mongooses had a playful morning right before our eyes. The breakfast and dinner were delicious with three types of local fruits plus the meal. The host Sanka was lovely, providing us with our meals on the dot. He also found d accommodation for our driver in a nearby place. There is a wooden elephant making workshop right next to the cabins and our friend from Germany was delighted to watch elephant carving from wood and purchased 5 beautiful elephants. There are shops to buy common items within 200 meters of the cabins and bicycles are available for rent for those who like to cycle. We spent a lot more time in the cabin than we expected as we didn’t want to leave bird watching from our balcony!!

The room size was slightly small, but it was indicated in Booking.com. There was no hot water for shower, but as Polonnaruwa was quite hot the cold shower didn’t matter.

Lovely stay at the Lake Cabin beutifull view and lovely dinner on the balcony lots of wildlife all around and we had a wonderful sunset boat trip.

The reason to come here is that front porch. The rest of the cabin is small but functional. Give yourself a few hours to stay there and watch the animals of the lake. We were braced for clouds of insects, but there weren't many, maybe we got lucky. We also went for the morning lake tour which was fantastic. Excellent breakfast as well. The host was really helpful and easy to get ahold of.

The recommended restaurant was fine but quite expensive for what you get. There's a wood shop down the road where they hammer through the night, earplugs are a good idea.

Sanka is an excellent host, very friendly and helpful! And his wife is a great cook! Lovely breakfasts and dinners. The cabin is marvelously located overlooking the lake and the terrace is an absolute highlight, so nice to hang out. The cabin itself is small and basic, but with everything you need! Even coffee and tea facilities :-) We had a great time and enjoyed every minute.

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Review: An Unforgettable Stay at Lake Cabin Our stay at Lake Cabin was absolutely magical! The view was the most breathtaking we have ever seen— view of swimming monkeys, water buffalo, and countless beautiful birds was an experience we will never forget. The owner was amazing—so friendly and welcoming. He went above and beyond to make our stay perfect. He even brought us breakfast at 5 AM before our early morning safari, which was incredibly kind and thoughtful. We also highly recommend the cooking class hosted by his sister and niece. It was a fantastic experience, and we learned so much about local cuisine while enjoying a warm and friendly atmosphere. If you're looking for a place with stunning nature, exceptional hospitality, and unique experiences, Lake Cabin is the perfect choice!

Location of the lake cabin was amazing. A great spot to watch the world go by day or night! The room was comfortable and the staff were great. Thank you!

The owner is very friendly.And dinner and breakfast are provided, and the charge is reasonable.I spent a wonderful night here.

What a beautiful place this is. The views from the terrace were so lovely and overlooked the large lake The lake was teeming with wildlife, birds, fishermen and water buffalo. We did a boat trip on the lake which was really good. We also went to an amazing restaurant down a back street 5 mins walk away where the food was so good. The lady there even ran her own cookery classes. So close to the ancient city to explore it. We loved the banana pancakes for breakfast. As a bonus we saw an elephant on the lakeside as we drove round the lake.

Would have liked some glasses for our beer

The location is beautiful - so much wildlife to see! Sanka was extremely attentive and helpful, and even drove us to the bus stop at the end of our stay. He cooked delicious breakfasts both days of our stay. The cabin is well equipped with a verandah and tea making facilities. The bed was comfortable, and everything was very clean.

Cold shower - but this is stated in the description of the property, and it certainly isn’t a complaint.

The view was great, you can observe birds and monkeys while having your breakfast. The host can also provide bicycles to explore the city and bring you to the bus station.

A little bit expensive for what it is :)

It rained almost without stopping during our stay at Lake Cabin. However we had a happy time in the care of our excellent host who made us welcome and helped us find an excellent local place to eat as well as arranging a tour of the lake where we saw several elephants. There were good choices for breakfast. The lake view from the veranda was stunning with so many birds.

Wonderful view and so quite as well great welcome

Sanka was a fantastic and helpful host. We really enjoyed sitting on the deck overlooking the lake watching the sunset and abundance of wildlife. Sanka organised our various tours and his knowledge was invaluable. Big breakfast to start our day well.

Street dogs were noisy

A small romantic hotel on the lake with very friendly and helpful host. Picturesque view from the terrace. Good Srilankan breakfasts. Nice choice for a short visit to Polonnaruwa

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Everything was very good! The owner was very friendly and helpful. He organised a very nice boat tour with a friendly guide. Nice breakfast in front the lake! We recommend!

Incredible stay! Peaceful in front of the lake and nature! Superbe view for sunset sunrise and breakfast! We had a beer by the lake for sunset and saw water buffalo and monkeys! Very well located close to the bus station to/ from Dambulla, restaurants and main road to find tuktuk The room has AC, very good breakfast, one of the best of our trip in srilanka! Try the banane pancake! And most importantly incredible staff, very nice, welcoming warm and helpful! Thank you!! Perfect for nature lover

The view of this lake cabin is very beautiful. When you eat breakfast with this view, it feels fantastic 😊

I usually don't write negative comment. In my option, This guesthouse was the most uncomfortable one we stayed at during our entire trip. In my opinion, if it's not the season when elephants pass by here, do not book this guesthouse. The biggest problem for us was the position of the air conditioner, which blows directly at you. Even at 25 degrees, it felt extremely cold when it was blowing directly. The guesthouse provided only two thin sheets that couldn't even cover our entire bodies. We were woken up by the cold on both nights. Turning off the air conditioner made us wake up from the heat, and using the fan kept us awake due to the noise. If they had provided us with a slightly thicker blanket, we wouldn’t have been woken up by the cold while using the air conditioning. The whole night, we simply couldn't sleep at all... We could tolerate many other issues (including mosquitoes and lots of small animals, no free bottle water, a lot things will be charged extra ( like eggs for the breakfast, 2usd )), but this one was completely unbearable

The owner of the Lake Cabin was very nice. He arranged everything for our stay to our desire, from breakfast to dinner to activities. That made our stay very pleasant - we got everything we wanted out of our stay at Polonnaruwa!

We couldn’t manage the airco as we wanted to so it actually became very cold in the room. But maybe we just didn’t understand how it worked!

They're not enough stars for this amazing place, tranquility by the lake, amazing host... Nothing was too much trouble for him, he went over and above hospitality. OMG, takes your breath and senses into a different dimension. Organised lake trip with lady guide to see the birds, buffalo and spot elephants. I had a bad cough infection and his wife brewed me up a concoction. Have I mentioned how amazing this human being is that runs this place, warm, polite, beautiful breakfast. Went out of his way time and time again to help us... Lost for words.

Great location & nice view!

The view is absolutely amazing and we have been able to enjoy it from our private balcony. The host has been super welcoming and very helpful as he organised for us a visit of the ancient city and ayurvedic massages and everything was really amazing.

The room gets quite hot but with the AC it didn't bother us too much, except maybe in the bathroom