Villa Coco Tangalla

Villa Coco Tangalla is a whitewashed colonial-style house on a terraced, palm-shaded estate above the sea, about ten minutes from the centre of Tangalle. Its gardens step down from the house to an infinity pool and then on to a gate and the beach below, with the sound of the surf ever-present. Six bedrooms, a dedicated team and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere make it a lovely choice for groups of adult friends and families with older children.

The infinity pool sits on its own terrace with uninterrupted views over the palms to the Indian Ocean, lined with turquoise loungers and shaded by umbrellas. The gardens are lush and carefully kept, with small seating areas, a garden dining table and a gazebo tucked among the greenery. At the foot of the estate, a gate opens onto a wild, rocky stretch of beach, ideal for walks and watching the waves, with calmer swimming beaches a short walk along the coast.

Inside, high ceilings, arched doorways and indoor planters frame a mix of antiques and contemporary design, with silk drapes and bold colour throughout. There is a comfortable living room, a library of books and DVDs, a terrace lounge with sea views and an open dining area. The six air-conditioned bedrooms range from the King Coco master suite to doubles, queens and two twin rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, and four are in the main house with two in an annex. Breakfast is included, and the kitchen team cooks Sri Lankan and international dishes on request.