Walatta House

Descend into the secluded tropical enclave that is Walatta house: a myriad of glass-fronted rooms, set amid the trees, that creates a sense of outdoor living within the most luxurious of surrounds. This eco-friendly development borders the beautiful shorelines of Tangalle, melding seamlessly into the verdant jungle environment and redefining deluxe travel via a contemporary masterpiece. The dwelling stands in a class of its own for originality, a unique design ideally suited to the setting that extols the true virtue of what it means to live sustainably.

From the resplendent planted rooftop to the extensive glass facades, this three-bedroom property does all in its power to enhance the blissful landscape, while ensuring guests experience maximum comfort in its visceral embrace. Expansive open-air living affords an unimaginable feeling of space, and the natural flow from the infinity pool to the sea below presents a unified energy that connects guests to the natural world.

As if emerging from the jungle, Walatta House is an exquisite single-floor eco-villa of unrivalled beauty that melts into the divine surrounds of Sri Lanka’s south coast. If the setting is not excusive enough, secretive steps lead from the rear of the property, guiding guests down to a secluded stretch of golden sand, inviting them to dive in to the bath-temperature ocean.

Despite its apparent isolation, with the multitude of beaches nearby, guests are never far from more social environs and the allure of world-class surf breaks tempts most to explore. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort is two-hours’ drive and a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts – the Dutch colonialist influence there for all to see, with its eclectic architecture alongside welcoming cafes and coffee shops.

At three-and-a-half hours from the airport, the transfer is longer than some, but is a drive of true beauty and - once delivered into absolute serenity - is more than worth the effort.

Guests can be forgiven for thinking they are viewing a piece of eco-art, such is the beauty of this John Bulcock-designed property, which blends effortless into its tree-lined setting. The luxurious living room is merely an extension of the garden, its deluxe day-bed and alluring L-shaped sofa the idyllic vantage spots for admiring the pool - and ocean - beyond; the timber dining table borders the space and is the ideal spot for cooler evening feasts. A media room creates a snug spot to retire to but - with the 20m infinity pool outside, flanked by sun-drenched loungers and astounding ocean-views – why would one spend their time indoors?

Perhaps for the bedrooms, each of which occupies a separate enclave - dreamily private despite wall-to-wall glass. The master suite enjoys a king-sized bed, its own veranda and a lavish ensuite – replete with semi-open design and polished concrete finishes. The first of the guest bedrooms has a queen-sized bed, while the second has two delightful singles - both rooms taking delicate design cues from the ornate master suite. Luscious landscape views, stunning semi-open ensuites and an enchanting aura hypnotise guests into a slumberous state.

This intricately stripped back eco-lodge redefines luxury travel; its innovative design reshaping expectations around beauty and tranquillity. The progressive architecture is emblematic of the island’s devotion to its landscape, and is an important step in recognising that effort must be applied to preserve the natural beauty of the region. Even the most discerning of traveller will not have experienced a lodging that delivers quite the serenity of Walatta House.

The professionally-trained staff do their utmost to maximise the comfort of your stay, preparing a delicious daily breakfast of the freshest island fruits and ensuring the property is maintained at its manicured best, while a villa manager is at your disposal to handle any requests and will be more than obliging in booking activities. Sri Lanka is rich with excitement so be sure not to miss out on its most enjoyable destinations - the abundance of Tuk Tuks making local travel a breeze.