DEFINED BY ITS SIMPLE, STYLISH DESIGN AND DÉCOR.

It is understated, unpretentious and very charming. The hotel's harmonious natural style begins at the entrance, where the driveway opens onto a large, circular, natural mangrove and lily pond; home to more than 20 species of birds.

The connection with nature continues throughout the hotel. The simple white lines of the building are complemented by the white flowers of the Araliya trees. Interiors blend with the exterior, the restaurant merges with the pool, the pool is aligned with the sea.

Of the 144 rooms, 84 are in the main building, built on two floors in a U-shape around the pool. A further 20 rooms are in the 'Garden Wing' - a single storey row along the front driveway, the remaining 40 rooms are cottages. All the rooms are decorated in the distinctive style of the hotel, with hand-painted murals, and a simplicity of colour and design. All the rooms have twin beds, balconies or terraces, and all are air-conditioned. The cottages are particularly good for families. Each cottage is privately fenced in and has plenty of space for extra beds with sitting area.

The hotel is now entirely all-inclusive and there is a full range of sports facilities and entertainment that you would expect with this concept - tennis, volleyball, a small gym, an ayurvedic center, on-site shops, and an evening entertainment programme. The meals are all buffet and the food is good. Particularly popular during the day is the beach snack restaurant.

The Neptune is not a glitzy, grand-scale hotel and in many ways that's the secret of its appeal. It is relaxed and comfortable. People feel at home here. The warm and welcoming staff, the superb location and the designer details make this one of the most charming hotels on the beach.