Myla Beach Villa

Myla Beach Villa stands right on the sand at Rathgama, a quiet stretch of Sri Lanka’s south-west coast about ten kilometres up the shore from Galle Fort. It is a whitewashed, colonial-style home under a long terracotta roof, with a lawn running from the terrace straight down to the beach. Four suites, five bathrooms and a team of four staff make it a relaxed choice for families and groups of friends who want the sea on their doorstep and Galle’s old town within easy reach.

Life outside centres on a long infinity pool set into a timber deck, lined with sun loungers and big white umbrellas and facing straight out over the Indian Ocean. Beyond it, manicured gardens lead directly onto the beach, and the covered alfresco dining area sits close enough to hear the waves over dinner. There is also a rooftop terrace for sunset views along the coast, and space for yoga on the property.

Inside, a bright living room and a long dining table look out to the sea, with a well-equipped kitchen alongside. A library, a study and a billiards room give everyone somewhere to retreat to. All four bedrooms are upstairs, each with a four-poster king bed, air conditioning, an en-suite bathroom and its own balcony facing the ocean. A chef can prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner on request, and daily housekeeping and security are part of the stay.