Rupert Parker Discovers Tranquil Luxury at Eraeliya Villas and Gardens Near Weligama in Sri Lanka
If you’re looking for ultimate relaxation with the sound of breaking waves, then head to the far south of Sri Lanka, just outside Weligama. Eraeliya Villas and Gardens takes a maximum of 22 guests in its six unique villas, situated in lush tropical gardens, with its own infinity pool. The beach is a few paces away with the sea perfectly safe for swimming.
Everything here spells tranquillity and the rooms are furnished with attractive bespoke furniture. In the communal areas, the walls are covered in artworks and service is understated yet efficient. I’m here during the rainy season but the sun still shines between showers. The added advantage is that from my spacious terrace, I can enjoy watching the storms playing out over the sea.
The main Villa Bawana has four ocean-view suites with extensive private terraces. There are also four stand-alone private villas and one modern Loft House with two loft suites. The villas are well spaced so there’s no danger of being disturbed by your neighbour.
We stayed in the main villa upstairs in the Alaya Suite, which means “love” in Sinhalese, It’s a large room with all the furniture made by hand in workshops in Sri Lanka, including a spacious desk. French windows opened out onto the terrace with a gorgeous sea view. There was a minibar plus complimentary bottled water.
The bathroom, running the width of the room at the rear, had a standalone tub and separate rain shower closet plus a couple of sinks. Luxury gown and slippers plus voluminous soft towels completed the sense of luxury.
Here they say that healthy and tasty meal is the foundation of happiness. All the food at Eraeliya Villas and Gardens is locally sourced and organic, and meals were served on my private terrace. I particularly enjoyed breakfast gazing at the ocean. The menu is diverse and includes Sri Lanka specialities like the Eraeliya Curry Poke Bowl which comes with fresh vegetables, red rice and a choice of prawns, chicken or tofu. There’s also their signature Tuna Steak and plenty of vegan options.
Beautiful spaces scattered throughout the lush tropical garden allow you to soak up the peace and tranquillity of nature. An infinity pool stretches out in front of the main villa, surrounded by loungers with umbrellas. If you prefer the sea, then it’s a short walk to the beach, perfectly safe for swimming. There’s also an excellent surf break out on the water for aficionados.
A fitness zone, overlooking the ocean, is equipped with pull-up bars and weights for workouts and personalised training. For spiritual activities, like yoga or meditation, a large collection of mats are available to place anywhere you choose, At sunset, set up by the sea and relax to the soothing accompaniment of the waves. Yoga classes are available on demand
In the garden, the Spa Pavilion offers aroma treatments designed to reduce stress, pain and muscle tension. Try the “Tranquility Aroma Massage” to relieve headaches and muscle pain. Or the magical “Revitalizing Body Scrub” that will leave you with glowing and flawless skin. The dedicated massage therapist combines health, science and traditional practices from around the world.
If you want to tear yourself away from tranquillity and venture into the wider world, the sea at nearby Weligama is one of Sri Lanka’s best surfing spots. Just along the coast is Mirassa, famous for whale watching. More wildlife can be spotted at Udawalawe, the best park for elephants, and Yala National Park for leopards. For culture, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort, around an hour up the coast.
But we’re content to just relax at Eraeliya Villas & Gardens, watching the interplay of sun and showers over the ocean. The food is excellent, service warm and unobtrusive, and it gets more and difficult to embrace the outside world. Eraeliya Villas & Gardens is designed for singles, couples and families who want to get away from it all. If you’re looking for a slow luxury lifestyle, this is the place of you.
Tell Me More About Eraeliya Villas and Gardens
Eraeliya Villas and Gardens 299 Walliwala, Weligama, Sri Lanka
T: +94 76 275 0841 E: info@eraeliya.com
Rates at Eraeliya Villas and Gardens start from $280 for two people and include breakfast and all taxes.
