Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House)
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Summary of reviewsNooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House) offers a unique blend of historic charm, serene surroundings and excellent location which makes it a favored choice among visitors. Situated in a historic Dutch colonial building on the former estate of the Dutch Governor, the hotel provides guests with a peaceful retreat while being conveniently close to Unawatuna Beach, vibrant entertainment districts, shops and restaurants. Guests appreciate the lush gardens, abundant wildlife and prime location which offers both relaxation and easy access to local attractions.
The hotel's breakfast is generally highlighted as a positive aspect of the stay, offering a large and varied buffet with both Sri Lankan and Western options in a picturesque setting. While some guests noted minor issues with temperature and repetitiveness, the overall experience is deemed wholesome and generous. Dinner at the hotel has also received high praise for its exceptional and delicious food, particularly the local dishes prepared by an excellent chef. Though some found the portions to be small and prices slightly high, most guests were satisfied with the quality and flavor of the meals.
Rooms at the hotel vary in quality with many guests appreciating the spacious, clean and well-decorated accommodations. Colonial-style furnishings, air conditioning and views from balconies enhance the charm. Deluxe rooms were particularly noted for their beauty and comfort. However, some guests experienced issues with cleanliness and outdated facilities, indicating a need for regular maintenance.
Cleanliness at the hotel is reviewed positively by many, who found the rooms and facilities to be well-maintained and spotless. The large swimming pool and beautifully landscaped grounds were especially commended. Nevertheless, inconsistencies were noted by a few guests, pointing out issues such as dirty dishes and occasional unclean rooms.
The staff at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel are widely praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and attentiveness. Guests found the team to be exceptionally polite and efficient, contributing significantly to their positive experience. The meticulous maintenance of the premises and warm demeanor of the staff, including management figures like Mr. Nimal and Jude, were particularly appreciated.
The pool area is another highlight for guests, featuring a large main pool and a smaller shaded option, both well-maintained and perfect for swimming and relaxation. While occasional issues with water clarity were noted, the overall sentiment is that the pool area greatly enhances the guest experience.
Families have mixed feedback about their stays with many finding the environment ideal due to the large tranquil surroundings, ample space for kids to play and secure areas. However, some reviews caution that the hotel might not be the best choice for all families. Extras like Ayurveda treatments add relaxation for parents.
WiFi at the hotel is a common concern with many guests finding the reception poor and intermittent, particularly in the rooms. While it performs better in communal areas and balconies, the connectivity challenges reflect the heritage nature of the building.
Feedback on bedding is mixed with some guests finding the beds comfortable, while others experienced issues with hard and creaky mattresses. Despite this, many found the overall accommodations conducive to a restful stay.
In summary, Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel provides a charming and historical ambiance with excellent service, good food and beautiful surroundings. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in room maintenance and WiFi, the overall experience is positive, leaving most guests satisfied with their stay.
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The hotel's breakfast is generally highlighted as a positive aspect of the stay, offering a large and varied buffet with both Sri Lankan and Western options in a picturesque setting. While some guests noted minor issues with temperature and repetitiveness, the overall experience is deemed wholesome and generous. Dinner at the hotel has also received high praise for its exceptional and delicious food, particularly the local dishes prepared by an excellent chef. Though some found the portions to be small and prices slightly high, most guests were satisfied with the quality and flavor of the meals.
Rooms at the hotel vary in quality with many guests appreciating the spacious, clean and well-decorated accommodations. Colonial-style furnishings, air conditioning and views from balconies enhance the charm. Deluxe rooms were particularly noted for their beauty and comfort. However, some guests experienced issues with cleanliness and outdated facilities, indicating a need for regular maintenance.
Cleanliness at the hotel is reviewed positively by many, who found the rooms and facilities to be well-maintained and spotless. The large swimming pool and beautifully landscaped grounds were especially commended. Nevertheless, inconsistencies were noted by a few guests, pointing out issues such as dirty dishes and occasional unclean rooms.
The staff at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel are widely praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and attentiveness. Guests found the team to be exceptionally polite and efficient, contributing significantly to their positive experience. The meticulous maintenance of the premises and warm demeanor of the staff, including management figures like Mr. Nimal and Jude, were particularly appreciated.
The pool area is another highlight for guests, featuring a large main pool and a smaller shaded option, both well-maintained and perfect for swimming and relaxation. While occasional issues with water clarity were noted, the overall sentiment is that the pool area greatly enhances the guest experience.
Families have mixed feedback about their stays with many finding the environment ideal due to the large tranquil surroundings, ample space for kids to play and secure areas. However, some reviews caution that the hotel might not be the best choice for all families. Extras like Ayurveda treatments add relaxation for parents.
WiFi at the hotel is a common concern with many guests finding the reception poor and intermittent, particularly in the rooms. While it performs better in communal areas and balconies, the connectivity challenges reflect the heritage nature of the building.
Feedback on bedding is mixed with some guests finding the beds comfortable, while others experienced issues with hard and creaky mattresses. Despite this, many found the overall accommodations conducive to a restful stay.
In summary, Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel provides a charming and historical ambiance with excellent service, good food and beautiful surroundings. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in room maintenance and WiFi, the overall experience is positive, leaving most guests satisfied with their stay.
Hotel with Spa
Offers a unique heritage experience with comfortable accommodations. Located in Unawatuna, providing access to nearby attractions. The hotel aims to provide a memorable and relaxing stay for its guests.
Family Friendly Hotel
A heritage hotel with a unique historical setting. Offers a family-friendly environment. Located in Unawatuna.
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Situated in Unawatuna, a coastal area recognized for its lively beach nightlife, providing guests with access to nearby bars and entertainment.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
This heritage hotel has a swimming pool. It combines historical charm with modern amenities.
Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
This hotel is recommended for business travelers due to its transport links. It offers an outdoor pool, room service, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a bar/lounge. Laundry services and a spa and wellness center are available.
Hotel with Parking
This heritage hotel offers parking facilities for its guests. Visitors can park their vehicles on the hotel grounds.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
This hotel boasts two outdoor pools, one of which is a children's pool, and a poolside bar. The pools are set within beautiful, tranquil gardens, offering a serene and varied swimming experience.
Hotel near The Beach
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
3-Star Hotel
Guest Reviews
Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel is perfectly situated in a historic Dutch colonial building, offering guests a serene retreat with a taste of rich history. The hotel boasts a prime location on the former grounds of the Dutch Governor’s estate, conveniently close to the vibrant entertainment district, shops and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Guests appreciate the peaceful, yet central setting, which places them within walking distance of Unawatuna Beach and other local attractions. Despite its proximity to the main street, the hotel provides an oasis of tranquility, surrounded by lush gardens and abundant wildlife, making it feel like a secluded haven away from the bustling areas.
The spacious grounds are beautifully landscaped, featuring a large swimming pool and verdant gardens that add to the hotel’s charm. Walking to the beach ranges from a brief 8 to 15 minutes, depending on pace and the convenience of being near both Unawatuna Beach and Jungle Beach is a plus.
Moreover, the staff is commended for their excellent service, enhancing the overall guest experience. The combination of a perfect location, serene environment and historical ambiance makes this hotel an ideal choice for those wanting both relaxation and easy access to Unawatuna’s attractions.
At Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel, guests generally find the breakfast to be a highlight of their stay with many describing it as delicious, hearty and wholesome. The breakfast offers a large and varied buffet, featuring a selection of fruits, Sri Lankan and Western options and fresh juice. The ample choice includes substantial elements such as eggs prepared in different ways, sausages, toast, butter, jam, coffee and tea. Many guests enjoy the plentiful and filling meals, which are often described as lovely and generous.
The atmosphere is enhanced by the picturesque views of mountains and a lake, making the breakfast experience even more delightful. Some guests appreciate the welcoming, almost family-like experience and commend the friendly staff for their excellent service.
However, a few reviews note room for improvement. Some guests find the breakfast repetitive with the same options served every day and mention that the food items can sometimes be cold or arrive slowly. While certain reviews highlight that the breakfast is substantial and varied, others have found it to be basic or meager.
Overall, despite occasional criticisms about monotony and temperature, the breakfast at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel is well-regarded for its extensive variety, quality and enjoyable dining experience.
The dinner experience at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel has largely received positive feedback from guests. Many praises highlight the exceptional and delicious food with some guests noting it as outstanding, fantastic and superb. The local cuisine, particularly the Sri Lankan pork curry, garnered special mentions with guests labeling it as a top favorite. Several reviews commend the excellent chef for preparing high-quality meals, including tasty curries and a delightful calamari curry.
Despite some comments about the portions being small and the menu a bit confusing, the overall quality of the food remains a strong point. A few guests found the restaurant's prices to be on the higher side compared to local cafes, yet others appreciated that dinner prices were reasonable. The consensus is that, while a bit pricey, the flavorful and well-prepared meals may justify the cost.
In summary with a mix of delicious dishes and commendable service, the dinner at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel seems to be a delightful experience for most guests.
The Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel originally the Dutch Governors House, offers rooms that vary in quality and comfort. Many guests appreciated the spacious, clean and well-decorated rooms, which often feature colonial-style furnishings and amenities like air conditioning, fridges and tea/coffee facilities. The tranquil surroundings and views from balconies overlooking the pond, jungle or mountains enhanced their stay.
However, some guests experienced issues with cleanliness, particularly in older and economy rooms, which were sometimes damp and had a musty smell. Regular maintenance appeared to be necessary, as several rooms were outdated and some facilities nonfunctional. The hard mattresses and dark interiors of certain rooms were also noted concerns.
Guests who stayed in deluxe rooms found them to be particularly beautiful and comfortable, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and garden views. Despite some inconsistencies in the room conditions, the general consensus highlighted the hotel's historic charm, friendly and helpful staff and the impressive gardens and pool area.
Overall, the Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel offers both charm and comfort, though the quality varies and some rooms could benefit from updates and improved maintenance.
Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel, a unique property known for its history and well-maintained ambiance, has received mixed feedback regarding its bedding. Many guests found the beds to be comfortable with several mentioning particularly comfy experiences. Some highlighted very large and comfortable rooms that add to the overall positive stay.
However, there are notable concerns about the beds being hard, fragile and creaky for others. Specific issues included hard mattresses that were difficult to sleep on, thin beds where slats could be felt and some mattresses described as low budget. There were also mentions of beds without mosquito nets, which might be a consideration for some travelers.
In summary, while some guests enjoyed a good night's rest, others found the beds lacking in comfort and reliability, indicating a varied experience when it comes to sleeping arrangements at this heritage hotel.
At 'Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House)', cleanliness receives mixed reviews from guests. On the positive side, many found the rooms and facilities to be exceptionally clean, mentioning daily cleaning routines and rooms equipped with necessary amenities for long-term stays. Guests often praised the immaculate conditions, highlighting spacious and spotless rooms and a well-maintained environment. The pool, described as large and perfect for swimming, is cleaned every morning and the beautiful grounds along with a pond of lotuses add to the property's charm.
However, some reviews indicate inconsistencies in cleanliness. Issues such as dirty or broken dishes, stains on the walls and the occasional presence of spiders and cobwebs were noted. Specific complaints included dirty sheets, unclean bathrooms and an unpleasant humidity smell in the rooms. While some guests found their rooms not fully clean, others pointed out that the initial rooms offered were unclean and smelled of mold. Additionally, the pool, at times, was reported to need better maintenance.
Overall, 'Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel' offers a generally clean and comfortable stay, though attention to more consistent upkeep could enhance the guest experience.
Nestled in a serene and well-located area, Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel is renowned for its exceptional staff. Guests consistently praise the team for being friendly, helpful and exceedingly polite. The staff's attentiveness and efficiency are clear highlights with many going the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay.
The reception staff stand out for their responsiveness and warm demeanor with special mentions for management figures like Mr. Nimal and Jude, who are noted for their accommodating and helpful nature. The pool staff also receive commendations for their service.
Guests appreciate the staff's ability to maintain the hotel's premises meticulously, contributing to an overall atmosphere of comfort and care. The team excels in assisting guests with travel plans and other needs, further enhancing the hotel's reputation for excellent service. Courteous, professional and genuinely caring, the staff of Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel make every effort to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.
Many guests of Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel have shared their experiences regarding the hotel’s WiFi, highlighting several issues but also acknowledging some positive aspects. While the WiFi reception is generally poor in many areas and often intermittent or unstable in rooms, it appears to work better in communal areas and on balconies. Some guests noted that the internet wasn't very good and mentioned that WiFi signals were weak or not reaching their rooms at all. Despite these issues, a few guests pointed out that WiFi worked fine in some instances, although it was not super fast. The heritage nature of the building might contribute to these connectivity challenges and it's something to keep in mind when staying at this historically charming hotel.
The reviews of the pool at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel highlight consistent positive experiences from guests. Visitors frequently praised the pool area as nice, superb and well-maintained. It appears that the hotel boasts both a large main pool and a smaller, shaded option, which are highly appreciated by guests, particularly families with children. The large pool, often described as clean and beautifully surrounded by nature, serves as a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing on loungers. Many guests were delighted by the attractive garden setting and found the pool to be an excellent refreshment after a hot day. Comments also reflect positive aspects such as the good bar-restaurant service near the pool area, enhancing the overall guest experience. Although a few guests noted occasional issues with the clarity and maintenance of the water, the general sentiment remains that the pools are a significant highlight of their stay, contributing to the hotel's relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere.
Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel, situated in the former Dutch Governors House, has garnered mixed feedback regarding its suitability for families with children. Many guests highlight the hotel's ideal family-friendly environment, noting excellent staff, large tranquil surroundings and abundant space for kids to play. The hotel's secured area and rooms with safes provide peace of mind for parents. Some families appreciated the availability of interconnecting rooms and spacious family rooms with separate outdoor seating areas, which added to their comfort.
However, not all reviews were positive. A few visitors cautioned that the hotel might not be the best choice for families, indicating variability in experiences. Despite this, the hotel's location is advantageous with easy access to nearby attractions, such as Galle Fort and transportation hubs via tuctuc. Extras like Ayurveda body treatments add a touch of relaxation for the parents, enhancing the overall family experience.
Overall, while Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel may appeal to families seeking a relaxed and secure environment with adequate space for children, it's important to consider the varied guest experiences when making a decision.
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Location
Guests appreciate the peaceful, yet central setting, which places them within walking distance of Unawatuna Beach and other local attractions. Despite its proximity to the main street, the hotel provides an oasis of tranquility, surrounded by lush gardens and abundant wildlife, making it feel like a secluded haven away from the bustling areas.
The spacious grounds are beautifully landscaped, featuring a large swimming pool and verdant gardens that add to the hotel’s charm. Walking to the beach ranges from a brief 8 to 15 minutes, depending on pace and the convenience of being near both Unawatuna Beach and Jungle Beach is a plus.
Moreover, the staff is commended for their excellent service, enhancing the overall guest experience. The combination of a perfect location, serene environment and historical ambiance makes this hotel an ideal choice for those wanting both relaxation and easy access to Unawatuna’s attractions.
Breakfast
The atmosphere is enhanced by the picturesque views of mountains and a lake, making the breakfast experience even more delightful. Some guests appreciate the welcoming, almost family-like experience and commend the friendly staff for their excellent service.
However, a few reviews note room for improvement. Some guests find the breakfast repetitive with the same options served every day and mention that the food items can sometimes be cold or arrive slowly. While certain reviews highlight that the breakfast is substantial and varied, others have found it to be basic or meager.
Overall, despite occasional criticisms about monotony and temperature, the breakfast at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel is well-regarded for its extensive variety, quality and enjoyable dining experience.
Dinner
Despite some comments about the portions being small and the menu a bit confusing, the overall quality of the food remains a strong point. A few guests found the restaurant's prices to be on the higher side compared to local cafes, yet others appreciated that dinner prices were reasonable. The consensus is that, while a bit pricey, the flavorful and well-prepared meals may justify the cost.
In summary with a mix of delicious dishes and commendable service, the dinner at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel seems to be a delightful experience for most guests.
Rooms
However, some guests experienced issues with cleanliness, particularly in older and economy rooms, which were sometimes damp and had a musty smell. Regular maintenance appeared to be necessary, as several rooms were outdated and some facilities nonfunctional. The hard mattresses and dark interiors of certain rooms were also noted concerns.
Guests who stayed in deluxe rooms found them to be particularly beautiful and comfortable, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and garden views. Despite some inconsistencies in the room conditions, the general consensus highlighted the hotel's historic charm, friendly and helpful staff and the impressive gardens and pool area.
Overall, the Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel offers both charm and comfort, though the quality varies and some rooms could benefit from updates and improved maintenance.
Beds
However, there are notable concerns about the beds being hard, fragile and creaky for others. Specific issues included hard mattresses that were difficult to sleep on, thin beds where slats could be felt and some mattresses described as low budget. There were also mentions of beds without mosquito nets, which might be a consideration for some travelers.
In summary, while some guests enjoyed a good night's rest, others found the beds lacking in comfort and reliability, indicating a varied experience when it comes to sleeping arrangements at this heritage hotel.
Cleanliness
However, some reviews indicate inconsistencies in cleanliness. Issues such as dirty or broken dishes, stains on the walls and the occasional presence of spiders and cobwebs were noted. Specific complaints included dirty sheets, unclean bathrooms and an unpleasant humidity smell in the rooms. While some guests found their rooms not fully clean, others pointed out that the initial rooms offered were unclean and smelled of mold. Additionally, the pool, at times, was reported to need better maintenance.
Overall, 'Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel' offers a generally clean and comfortable stay, though attention to more consistent upkeep could enhance the guest experience.
Staff
The reception staff stand out for their responsiveness and warm demeanor with special mentions for management figures like Mr. Nimal and Jude, who are noted for their accommodating and helpful nature. The pool staff also receive commendations for their service.
Guests appreciate the staff's ability to maintain the hotel's premises meticulously, contributing to an overall atmosphere of comfort and care. The team excels in assisting guests with travel plans and other needs, further enhancing the hotel's reputation for excellent service. Courteous, professional and genuinely caring, the staff of Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel make every effort to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.
Wi-Fi
Pool
Family
However, not all reviews were positive. A few visitors cautioned that the hotel might not be the best choice for families, indicating variability in experiences. Despite this, the hotel's location is advantageous with easy access to nearby attractions, such as Galle Fort and transportation hubs via tuctuc. Extras like Ayurveda body treatments add a touch of relaxation for the parents, enhancing the overall family experience.
Overall, while Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel may appeal to families seeking a relaxed and secure environment with adequate space for children, it's important to consider the varied guest experiences when making a decision.
Yes, Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House) has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House).
No, Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House) doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House).
No, Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (Original Dutch Governors House) doesn't have a gym.
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