Ellies House

Ellies House is a contemporary hideaway in Ahungalla, a short drive from Bentota on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, set among cinnamon plantation and tropical greenery where peacocks, monkeys and colourful birds are regular visitors. Its striking design pairs crisp white interiors and polished concrete with dark timber, black steel and local craftsmanship, all wrapped in more than a thousand square metres of garden. With three suites for up to six guests, it suits families and small groups looking for privacy, wellness and quiet days in nature.

The garden centres on a ten-metre pool with a shallow end and step, edged by lawn, sunloungers and bright red umbrellas. Up top, a rooftop terrace with a large daybed looks out over the treetops and is a wonderful spot for sunset or morning yoga. Tucked into the garden is a curtained spa pavilion for massages and treatments, along with a calm water garden, and the staff can run you to Ahungalla Beach by tuk-tuk whenever you like.

Inside, the living, dining and kitchen spaces flow together under a high timber roof, with wide folding doors opening straight onto the garden and pool. A long dining table seats everyone, and the fully equipped kitchen has an oven, coffee maker and toaster. The Garden Suite, Panorama Suite and Tower Loft Suite each have their own bathroom and open onto a private terrace or balcony, and breakfast is included daily, with a chef cooking lunch and dinner on request.