Mawella Hideaways, Mawella, near Tangalle, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book
"On a completely unspoilt stretch of coast, near the market town of Tangalle, two barefoot hideaways await. You’ll find them nestled within verdant tropical foliage at the western end of the sweeping 2km curve of Mawella Beach, set around a shimmering pool. Here you can chill on a sunlounger, shade in the pool house, or wander through your homely hideaway's garden gate and down to the beach, where a plethora of colourful fishing boats lay poised for action. Aside from short periods at dawn and dusk when the boats come and go, the beach is blissfully quiet. Expect to see a few fishermen mending their nets, monkeys and squirrels frolicking in the trees, and little else. The two hideaways, each a former fisherman’s house, are nestled between the headland and the breakwater, which creates calm waters for leisurely swims. One hideaway has one bedroom, the other has two, but both have airy living and dining spaces and basic kitchens for self-catering (a cooking team is available, shared between the hideaways). Though their layouts differ, they brandish the same minimalist, monochrome interiors. Escapist couples and adventurous families with older children will cherish the seclusion of these laid-back localities. Rock-top temples, hidden coves and turtle sanctuaries all lie within easy reach. Highs We loved the privacy and barefoot informality of the simple hideaways Mawella Beach (just steps away) has a breakwater to reduce waves and help fishermen land their boats, so the sea is shallow and good for swimming. There's also a pool beckoning within the gardens Waking up at dawn to watch fishermen hauling in their catch as the sun rises over the sea; this feels like a proper slice of authentic Sri Lanka The staff are extremely helpful and friendly, the food delicious, and the housekeepers are always on hand should you need anything The air charter/taxi service from Colombo lands on the nearby lagoon, so it’s easy to reach (500m) Lows No bar, but you can BYO at no charge or ask the team to purchase it on your behalf The bungalows aren't air conditioned, but they do have ceiling fans A little hard to find (use Nicola's map), and restaurants are a beach walk or tuk-tuk ride away Nature often finds its way indoors, so don’t be surprised to come across an insect or two – particularly in Kumbuk, which is set a little further inland Full pre-payment is required by bank transfer (or credit card on request)" - Emma Boyle
