Ambalama Villa

Ambalama Villa sits directly on the beach at Talpe, on Sri Lanka’s south coast, a short drive from the ramparts and lanes of Galle Fort. Low, tiled-roof pavilions are arranged around a manicured garden of palms that runs straight onto the sand, and the sunsets over the Indian Ocean are a nightly event. With four bedrooms for up to eight guests and a dedicated team on hand, it is a relaxed, beautifully run home for families and groups of friends.

A thirteen-metre pool stretches along the garden with loungers and umbrellas on both sides, and a covered dining table at its edge is the natural spot for long breakfasts. A thatched beach pavilion looks straight out to sea, lily ponds bring a cool, green courtyard into the heart of the house, and the lawn has room for children to play and for barbecues in the evening. Guests have even watched turtles come ashore on the beach in front to lay their eggs.

Inside, high timber ceilings and warm golden tones give the living room an easy elegance, with deep sofas and doors opening towards the ocean, and a second living area holds a dining table for eight. Three bedrooms have king beds and the fourth has twin beds, all air-conditioned with ceiling fans, mosquito nets, en-suite rain showers and their own terraces facing the sea. Housekeeping, a gardener, guest assistants and security are part of the stay, and a private chef can cook all your meals.