Villa Salina

Lying on the southern tip of Sri Lanka is the truly tropical retreat of Villa Salina. This luxurious enclave is set within a private estate that boasts its own round-the-clock security, breath-taking 360-degree panoramas and an array of properties that have won awards for their creative design. The height of contemporary living, this relatively new development captures the hearts of all who stay. After a week’s repose on the sun-drenched rooftop terrace, admiring the deep azure of the Indian Ocean to the south and verdant sub-tropical jungle up north, it is easy to see why guests struggle to depart.

Accommodating twelve guests across six bedrooms, there is ample living space in the property, with a private gym and lavish home cinema to entertain the masses at quieter times. As the sun gently sets on another blissful day in paradise, express gratitude for whichever kind soul brought you to such an idyllic retreat.

Situated between Mirissa and Matara, and with its own private access to a secluded beach, there are few more desirable locations on this paradisiacal island. Peruse the surrounds from the giddy heights of the roof terrace, and plot your next steps on the southern tip of Sri Lanka.

Whether it is whale watching you seek, or adrenalin-fuelled wave riding you yearn for, Mirissa and Weligama are just a short drive away. Mirissa’s harbour hosts hundreds of boat captains, each eager to board guests onto their charter and show them the mesmerising spectacle of a breaching blue whale; Weligama is the golden crescent of sand that has consistently crashing waves and bath-temperature waters that are ideal for beginner and experienced surfers alike.

With Galle Fort to the west and Yala Safari Park to the east, activities abound for the culturally and wildlife-inclined. Plus, the airport is only two-hours on the super-highway, so families can rejoice at the relative ease of transfers.

A delightful three-tiered design that has earned great acclaim, Villa Salina boasts decadent interiors that look out onto its own private stretch of beach. With four distinct living spaces, a first-floor infinity pool and a magnificent roof-top balcony, guests need do little more than select their spot for restful repose.

Should activity be required, a well-appointed gym is on hand for letting off steam, while the deluxe home cinema is an escape for sleepier moments. When all is said and done, hit the resplendent roof-terrace bar for spectacular sundowners before receding indoors to the twelve-seater dining table with its inspiring jungle-canopy views.

Six bedrooms are crisply decorated with refined stone finishes in each of the ensuites. The master suite on the second floor boasts a king-sized bed and a delightful sea-view, its exclusive outdoor bathroom completing the tropical vibe. Two further guest suites are on the same floor – king-sized beds, both with generous ensuites and one with a private balcony; this is opulence in its highest regard. The final three bedrooms are spread across the ground floor – two twins and one further king-sized bed - ideal family accommodation that spreads luxury across the entire level. Set next to the gym and games room, this is an ideal space for younger, or more active, members of the group.

The award-winning design of Villa Salina attracts sophisticated high-flyers from around the globe, each seeking to absorb the otherworldly beauty of Sri Lanka’s south-coast from an unrivalled setting. Few properties enjoy 360-degree panoramas but, from the lofty heights of the terrace, elevate yourself into the heavens and admire the spectrum of colours that abound from all angles throughout halcyon days. Direct beach access completes the picture-perfection and – whilst you will struggle to capture the beauty of the setting sun on camera – memories will live on for eternity.

A villa manager will ensure all needs are met, while housekeeping will maintain the property at its prestigious best, plus an on-site chef can visit the markets and grill up the day’s catch, if you so wish. Whether it is the morning spread of island fruits, or an evening feast of seafood and sambal, nothing beats a pool-side banquet to the backdrop of an ethereal sunset.