Sri Lanka is the jewel of the Indian Ocean and it’s not hard to see why. The mixed terrain offers holidaymakers everything they could want. From golden beaches to rugged hillsides, lush rain-forests to bustling cities. Whatever aspect of Sri Lanka you are looking to explore, we have a villa to suit your needs. From luxury beachside villas to mountain retreats, in this list of the best villas in Sri Lanka – you’re sure to find the perfect holiday rental for you.
Villas on the South Coast
Sri Lanka’s tear-shaped island boasts beautiful beaches all around the coastline. However, the real draw for holidaymakers is the southern coastline which has wide sandy beaches, intimate coves and lots of laid-back surfing towns to explore. The stretch of coastline from Tangalle to Koggala to Galle has everything you would need for a relaxing holiday. While surfing is popular here, there are also great restaurants and bars and a host of stunning luxury villas available just a stone’s throw from the sea.
These villas cover Koggala, Weligama, Mirissa, Tangalle & the South. So if you are looking for a beach base in Sri Lanka, look no further.
1. Nisala Arana
Before being styled as Nisala Arana Boutique Hotel, the place is the former ancestral home of the Veda Mahattaya, a famed Ayurveda Doctor. The manor was built in 1850 on 4.5 acres of coconut estate. The 170-year-old house gives a Colonial-time atmosphere with indoor ponds, open-plan bathrooms, Jaffna temple doors, and Dutch arches. There are 7 bedrooms that can sleep 11 people.
WHAT YOU CAN DO AT NISALA ARANA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Nisala Arana is the perfect place for you to connect, either to yourself or to everyone around you. From a solo getaway to a private wedding, Nisala Arana will do its best to make your dream come true.
A perfect day could start by reading a decent book at the side of the pool. Should you feel a little bit adventurous, the hotel offers a combination of Dutch, Portuguese, and British cuisine for you to taste. Don’t forget to amuse yourself by trying some unique dining experiences at Nisala Arana: Seafood Barbecue, English High Tea, or Devil Dinner Dance.
Care to explore some more of southwest Sri Lanka? Bentota Beach can be reached within a 7-minute drive. There is a vast choice of tours around Nisala Arana, from Catamaran Mangrove Tour, Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, to Lagoon Boat Safari. Some of the favorite retreat spots are ‘Bawa’ Lunuganga by Morris Minor and ‘Bawa’ Brief Gardens by Morris Minor. Both are under a 25-minute drive and are related to the famous Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa.
2. Villa Mawella
Villa Mawella is a luxurious 6 bedroom villa complex with direct access to the Mawella-Tangalle beach. This is perfect for groups of friends or even 2 families as the 6 bedrooms are spread across two self-contained properties. While there are 4 spacious bedrooms in the main villa, the pool house offers a further 2.
What you can do at Villa Mawella
Villa Mawellas secluded location makes it perfect for a relaxing holiday. Imagine hearing only the sound of the birds and the crashing waves and you will begin to picture the tranquillity of this villa. As a treat for Mum and Dad, the master bedroom offers pure luxury with a four poster bed and adjoining bathroom. You can lounge back on your private terrace with a good book and cool off in the private plunge pool – without being splashed by the kids!
The villa’s large garden blooms with tropical plants and is perfect for enjoying the cooler evenings. Why not go for a sunset stroll along the beach? With direct access from the property, you can enjoy the sunset or wander along to a local restaurant.
If you are enjoying lazying around the villa, you can relax and watch the kids play in the large pool or entertain themselves with a game of hide-and-seek in the gardens! If you require any advice or assistance during your stay, the dedicated team of staff will ensure that you have everything you need.
With prices starting at $1,760/night this is the perfect holiday escape.
3. Villa Mount Cinnamon
Villa Mount Cinnamon is situated in a working cinnamon plantation in the Mirissa area. From this property, you can enjoy unrivalled 360-degree views of the plantation and nearby beach. You will step out each morning and marvel at the luscious green vegetation and aqua ocean beyond. Therefore, this is the perfect property if you are looking to get back to nature and enjoy fresh air and stunning views. While the villa is only a few kilometres from Weligama bay, the unique location makes this villa an oasis of calm and tranquillity.
What you can do at Villa Mount Cinnamon
While this cosy property will feel like a home from home, the excellent facilities will leave you feeling truly spoiled. Imagine relaxing in the infinity pool with some of the best views you have ever seen. Why not take a morning dip while you wait for breakfast to be prepared on the terrace? We guarantee that it will leave you feeling truly refreshed. Moreover, as the villa is set on a hill, the gardens have several layers- perfect for the kids to explore. If your little ones are a little too young for these adventures, the second pool, nearer the property, will allow you to keep a keen eye on them as they play.
While a week in this property is enough to alleviate all the stress of life, the attentive staff will make it all the more special, as they assist you with all the travel arrangements required.
This property is perfect for families or groups of friends looking for some real solitude whilst still being close to the beach. Prices start at $840/night.
4. Villa Nikara Yala 5
Villa Nikara Yala 5 is set further along the southern coast in the small village of Kirinda. However, if beaches are your thing, you certainly won’t be disappointing in Kirinda! Why not spend all day enjoying the stunning white sandy beaches? Before heading back for a sunset dinner on the veranda. Once the kids are tucked up in bed, you can cosy down in the media room to watch a movie or enjoy a cocktail at the outdoor bar.
What you can do at Villa Nikara Yala 5
The property has 5 large bedrooms and the master suite has its own private terrace with stunning views. Imagine stepping out onto your private veranda and feeling the morning sun warm you. Meanwhile, breakfast is being prepared by the friendly staff.
Whilst this villa is perfect for beach days, it’s also an ideal base for exploring Yala National park. Yala is home to Leopards, Elephants and Crocodiles, some of the celebrated wildlife of Sri Lanka! The staff at Villa Nikara Yala 5 will assist you in arranging a safari trip- which is not to be missed! The jeep-led safaris lead you through the extensive park. While the knowledgeable guides can spot the wildlife from miles around!
After a busy day at Yala you can relax by the pool with a good book. The large sun terrace is perfect for sunbathing while the children play in the pool.
Prices start at just $817/night making this an affordable option for families or groups of friends.
5. South Point Abbey
South Point Abbey is a home from home in the idyllic village of Koggala. This 4-bedroom villa is perfect for large families and offers cosy comfort and direct beach access. From this villa, you can enjoy superb ocean views from the terrace. While still being able to keep one eye on the children in the pool below. However, if you do decide you venture down to the poolside, the enticing infinity pool will ensure that you still have unbroken views of the ocean.
What you can do at South Point Abbey
You can certainly relax in this cosy villa, with its casual comfy furniture. However, the location is truly the highlight of this property- the beachside location will send you to sleep each night to the sound of waves lapping the shore.
The team of staff offer 5-star service with a host of optional extras such as babysitting and masseuse services. Imagine having a night off to wander along the beach and go for a romantic dinner. Or, if you’ve had a little too much sun, retiring to the villa for a relaxing massage.
Prices start at just $500/night, making this an affordable option for exploring the south coast.
6. Villa Ranawara
Villa Ranawara is a stunning 7 bedroom property set in an expansive 23-acre estate. You will be astounded by the luxury and size of this villa which will keep you exploring new corners for days! With several large living spaces you can spend a full afternoon relaxing in a quiet corner or playing games as a group in the large communal areas.
What you can do at Villa Ranawara
A stand out feature of this property is the private beach with direct access from the villa. You can spend the day undisturbed on your private beach whilst still being close enough to the villa to pop back and top up your drink. Views of the beach can be seen from the property, so if you fancy a day away from the sands you can simply enjoy the view whilst swimming in the 30-meter pool.
The staff at this property will ensure you have an exceptional stay. With optional extras such as a spa and massage facility, this property has everything you need for a stress-free holiday. With the capacity to sleep 14 people this is a great location to celebrate a special occasion with the extended family. The space allows for privacy whilst also accommodating for large family meals and drinks on the terrace.
Prices start at $2,376/night.
7. Villa Victoria
Villa Victoria is located close to Galle, famous not only for its beaches but its chic shopping a restaurant scene.
This 5-bedroom beachfront villa overlooks the Indian Ocean making it the perfect spot to relax. In no time you will be embracing the laid-back island lifestyle. Whether that means lazying around on the beach or enjoying a shady spot around the crystal clear pool. In no time you will feel your stresses fall away in the tranquillity of the gardens and pavilion. Of the 5 bedrooms, 4 are double and 1 is a twin. All rooms have four-poster canopy beds guaranteeing a peaceful nights rest- and no arguments!
What you can do at Villa Victoria
This villa is perfect for families as it is private but perfectly located to explore the rest of the southern coast and Galle. If travelling with children then a drive along the coast will offer a host of activities. From turtle sanctuaries to traditional stick fishermen. This Villas location is perfect for exploring.
At the end of a busy day along the coast, the children can relax in the media room, giving you the chance to enjoy a romantic sunset meal on the alfresco dining patio.
Prices start at just $770 making this an affordable option for families or groups of friends.
Inland Villas – explore another side to Sri Lanka
While the coast is a major draw of holidaymakers visiting Sri Lanka, the inland can offer a real retreat to nature. The hill country in the heart of country offers visitors stunning scenery. The hidden waterfalls and rolling tea plantations are the perfect backdrops for a relaxing holiday. Need more convincing? Just take a look at these stunning inland Villas.
1. Comilla Bungalow
Comilla Bungalow is situated in the town of Wathurugama not far from the cities of Colombo and Negombo. The Dutch colonial architecture gives away this properties rich historical past but inside the villa is modern and sleek. The property has 5 bedrooms each with a private bathroom, making it perfect for groups of friends. The communal areas are spacious meaning there is plenty room for relaxing together in the evening.
What you can do at Comilla Bungalow
During the day you can make the most of the views of surrounding plantations from the private infinity pool. Imagine overlooking the lush green vegetation as you take a morning swim. If you are looking to get away from it all, you can retreat to one of several private terraces which also make the most of the views.
This is a great choice for holidaymakers looking to explore Sri Lanka’s history. With ancient rock temples close by and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, you will be able to entertain the whole family. If you are just looking for an opportunity to relax, the seclusion of this property and the helpful staff will ensure that happens!
Prices start at just $500/night for this property including a daily breakfast prepared by the chef.
2. River House Balapitiya
The River House Balapitiya is a romantic paradise that is located at the bank of Madhu Ganga River, Srilanka. The 13-acre resort consists of 5 luxury suites, lush tropical gardens, jacuzzis, and private pools. Situated near the river, towering green palms and dense mangroves are also a scene you can see around the serene water. Enjoy the fluttering feelings of seeing monkeys playing around your living area and exotic birds.
WHAT YOU CAN DO AT THE RIVER HOUSE BALAPITIYA
Madu Ganga River is a minor watercourse in the south of Sri Lanka. The 4.4-kilometers river is the home of thick mangroves and many species from birds to crocodiles. Madu Ganga River boat safari package starts from 2500 LKR to 4500 LKR for 2.5 to 3 hours.
The river house is just 4 kilometers from the nearest beach. It’s a 12-kilometer drive from the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation and a 14-kilometer drive from Moonstone Mine. You can also visit the Shailathalarama Viharaya and Ariyapala Masks Museum. Bentota beach and Hikkaduwa beach can be reached within a 28-minute drive.
The town of Balapitiya is 130 kilometers away from the airport of Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. To reach Balapitiya from Colombo, you can take a 3-hour car drive or train. The closest train station is Pathegamgoda which is an 8-minute drive to the resort.
3. The Rosyth Estate House
The Rosyth Estate House is situated close to the town of Kegalle. This stunning hillside villa has 8 large bedrooms sleeping 16 guests. As this property is 1,100 ft above sea level, you are guaranteed to have unparalleled views. Imagine the unique experience of holidaying in a 64-acre tea plantation where the clear air will relax you. Why not catch some sun by the pool or on the terrace? Meanwhile, you will still enjoy the views, as the villa’s location means you can enjoy them from anywhere on the property!
What you can do at The Rosyth Estate House
The property has on-site spa facilities and treatments available and offers complimentary yoga sessions. This is the perfect place to get back to nature and enjoy the facilities on offer. However, if you are looking to explore a little further, the friendly staff can assist you with walking and biking trails.
You will wake each morning to stunning and peaceful views and a freshly prepared breakfast. Meanwhile, nothing is too much for the staff at this property who will do all they can to ensure a great stay. Why not request that they arrange a treasure hunt for your arrival? This will truly bring the magic of this property to life for you and your family.
Prices for this expansive villa start at $4,538/night.
See our villas in Sri Lanka. Inspected and selected by SriLanka-Villa.com.
