Villananda

Villananda sits right on the sand just outside Ambalangoda, on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, facing a quiet, almost deserted stretch of beach that is made for long walks at sunset. Ambalangoda is famous for its antiques and carved masks, and the villa reflects that heritage, pairing polished concrete and clean, minimal lines with antique doors and decorative pieces sourced from the surrounding area. With two king suites, it is an ideal hideaway for couples, honeymooners or a small family who want peace and privacy by the sea.

Life here is lived outdoors. A private pool of around seven and a half metres runs through a 705-square-metre garden of manicured lawn and coconut palms, looking straight out to the beach and the Indian Ocean beyond. Comfortable sunloungers line the pool deck, and a semi-open terrace under a timber roof doubles as the dining area, with views across the garden and pool to the sea, perfect for long breakfasts and evening meals to the sound of the waves.

Inside, a lofty open-plan living room with timber columns, carved antique windows and built-in shelving opens onto the terrace, alongside a fully equipped kitchen. Both bedrooms are air-conditioned and have king-size four-poster beds with mosquito nets and quality linens, plus a writing desk and an en-suite bathroom with solar-heated showers, and one bed can be split into two singles. Breakfast is included, daily housekeeping and complimentary laundry keep things effortless, and a team member who lives in the adjoining house is on hand throughout your stay.