Kalahe House

Kalahe House is a lovingly restored colonial-era home on a raised plot in the village of Kalahe, inland from Galle, looking out over rice paddies and surrounded by tall trees. Galle Fort and the beaches around Unawatuna are around fifteen minutes away by car, yet the house feels secluded, with monkeys in the trees by day and fireflies over the paddies at night. Three bedrooms and a small, attentive staff make it a lovely choice for couples, families and close friends who want peace and very good home cooking.

A nine-metre infinity pool stretches out from the lawn towards the treetops, with sun loungers along its edge and soft lighting after dark. The grounds are large and green, with stepping-stone paths through the garden, open views across the paddy fields and quiet corners for yoga or reading. Massages can be arranged in the house’s own spa room or on the lawn.

Inside, tall wooden doors and shutters open the living and dining rooms to the greenery, with orange-cushioned sofas, peacock artwork, a round dining table for six and a study corner for readers. Two bedrooms have king beds and the third has twin beds, all with mosquito-net four-posters, ceiling fans, air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms with hot showers. A resident cook prepares Sri Lankan curries, seafood and breakfasts to order, and housekeeping is looked after daily.