Tangalle Beach Hideaway, near Tangalle, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book
"We were thrilled when we stumbled upon this charming 2-bedroom beach cottage. Its simple, pared-down style is a perfect complement to laid-back Mawella beach: a peaceful strip of sand which lies a few steps down the grassy garden through a private gate. Here, the ocean is relatively calm, with small waves perfect for keen swimmers and boogie boarders alike. A few minutes’ drive from the traditional town of Tangalle, the house is one of four small and nearly identical buildings on the site, 2 of which are for security and housekeepers, the 3rd is another villa. The house itself has 2 high-ceilinged, spacious bedrooms, both with ensuite bathrooms and views to the ocean, so you can fall asleep to the sound of breaking waves. French windows open onto a huge veranda running the width of the house, with wicker loungers and a separate dining area. Dotted about the long garden are recliners and a hammock, while a thatched pavilion overlooking the beach is a serene spot for shady reading on plump cushions. The villa is fully serviced with two in-house staff to look after you, plus a gardener. One of the great luxuries here is tucking into one of their signature curries after a strenuous day in the sun - choose from a range of menus. This is simple beach life made comfy. Highs It works equally well for an adventurous family, for a honeymooning couple, or for 2 couples who are happy to share the lounge and gardenWe loved the calm, almost monastic bedrooms, and the wonderful sense of space in both garden and verandaThe 3km-long beach is one of very few that are safe for swimming during high season (Dec-April); outside these times it is practically empty (we shared it with just a few fishermen on our September visit)Unlike many Sri Lankan cottages, this one is really set back from the road, making it extremely quiet and private, and there's security for the villa at nightIf you want company, it's an hour's drive to the bustling beaches of Unawatuna and the historic town of Galle Lows Book early - it's often full!The house and gardens are prone to insect visitors (as is the rest of the country), particularly mosquitoes and red ants, so take plenty of repellentYou will need a local tuk tuk to visit shops or towns, or a car with driver (but there's no driver accommodation here)As often in Sri Lanka, you may need to ask staff for things, but they are incredibly friendly and are more than happy to help" - Claudia Davies
