Pegasus Reef:

The 'City Resort' by the sea

by Beverley Jansz

Pegasus Reef Hotel was founded in 1971 and pioneered to be the first star class European style hotel in Sri Lanka.

The first chairman of the company, J.L.M. Fernando was able, through his foresight and ability, to obtain the services of an Internationally famous hotel operator - Trust House Forte Ltd. British Overseas Associated Companies (BOAC) was the company's main share holder and collaborator. After 10 long years with Trust House Forte, the hotel was taken over by Carson Cumberbarch & Co. Ltd.

Pegasus Reef is located on the north of the city of Colombo, at Uswatakeiyawa, Hendala overlooking the harbour, just 15 km away from the city. Its location is of unique beauty and tranquillity, typical of the charm of Sri Lanka's sun kissed beaches.

The hotel is placed in between Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). Pegasus Reef is a 'City Resort' of a 4-star category status. It went through a re-modelling programme following the Tsunami disaster.

The cost of Rs. 220 million was funded by Insurance proceeds of 90 million supplemented by a rights issue which raised Rs. 282 million. 'Our target clientele remains a mix of local and foreign parties mainly the business, transit and leisure tourist segment', Resident Manager, Ravi Kurukulasooriya said.

In addition to this, Pegasus Reef is a popular venue for a variety of MICE programmes, weddings and honeymooners. The four main banquet halls can accommodate and cater to over 400 guests. Pegasus Reef offers convenience beyond a city hotel with a resort ambience.

It has 107 spacious deluxe rooms overlooking the garden and sea, equipped with central air conditioning, TV, telephone, mini bar, wireless internet service, attached baths with hot and cold water and private balconies. The air conditioned restaurant can accommodate over 200 gusts.

It offers a 24-hour room service. The hotel has a large and beautiful swimming pool, a Business Centre and an In-House Travel Counter. For sports enthusiasts, the hotel offers beach volleyball, table tennis, indoor games, fully equipped Gym and cycling.

Pegasus Reef is owned and managed by Carson Cumberbatch & Co Ltd.