Kalundewa Retreat, Dambulla, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book
"Leaving behind dusty Dambulla, the road winds its way through lush paddy fields flanked by majestic mountains, leading into a long avenue lined with pomegranate and mango trees. This is the entrance to architectural gem Kalundewa, hidden within a 100-acre retreat in Sri Lanka’s rural heart. Reaching the reception area, a high-design structure with trees growing through the slanted roof, you begin to see how Kalundewa has created a unique harmony between modern architecture and the natural world. And a glimpse of the Bakmee Chalet between foliage exposes an almost incongruous sight: on a marshy lake, steel beams and vast glass panels glint in the dappled sunlight. Whether you approach it by raft across the water, or via a stroll through a tropical orchard, the impact is the same: a massive wow factor. The building soars high and an open split-level living area has a fabulous wraparound view. The cosy Kambuk Chalet is also on stilts, whilst the Damunu Chalet is surrounded by a sea of paddy fields. All are full of glorious mod-cons, cavernous glass-walled bathrooms, and sleek bedrooms of exposed brick, sliding wooden doors and chunky steel fittings. But despite the modern setting, its nature that steals the show; this is a seriously peaceful place. Highs Modern design with an ecoluxe vibe, in a remote and peaceful setting far from the tourist groupsGreat for honeymooners; at night the air twinkles with fireflies and we loved the special candle-lit dinners set up on the bridges over the river, on top of the water tower, or in the rice fields A nature lover's paradise: birds flit past in dashes of colour, frogs burp contently, and the lake splashes as a water monitor cools offDelicious food, much of it home-grown (rice, vegetables, fruit), and served whenever you wantGorgeous walks and bicycle rides through agricultural scenery Lows Meals are a little on the pricey side and there are no other restaurants nearbyThis is a very peaceful place; not for party people" - Harriet Whiting
