Villa Ranawara

Luxury reigns supreme at Villa Ranawara, this magisterial property boasting the most decadent of designs, set within an archetypal tropical landscape. Glistening pools, verdant trees and the faint glimmer of the beach through the haze of the garden, guests are left wanting for nothing from the moment they arrive.

The array of pavilions offers both open-air living and secluded escapes, with ornate dining areas stretching towards expansive green scenery, right through to the pristine white sands of the private beach that borders the property. Accommodating fourteen guests across seven bedrooms - and with a multitude of on-site facilities - no villa is more perfectly-appointed for hosting lavish family celebrations or indulgent group getaways.

Whether dining on gourmet cuisine, or reclining in front of the cinematic home projector, there is no better destination on the breath-taking south coast of Sri Lanka.

Sitting just off the beach to the south of this island paradise, find Villa Ranawara; a trove of expansive terraces and mind-bending surrounds. With direct access to the powder-soft sand and glass-like waters of the adjacent beach, guests needn’t travel far to truly embrace the tropical nature of this blissful country. The Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary sits just next door providing a wonderful insight into the biodiversity of the land.

Two hours down the road is the town of Galle Fort – the bastion of a bygone era with its richly colonialist architecture, labyrinthine streets and wonderfully eclectic array of classy boutiques and sophisticated coffee shops; a true sign of the continuing prosperity of the local communities.

At three and a half hours from the airport - while the transfer is longer than some - the locale is of such unrivalled beauty that guests are implored to make the pilgrimage; not once has it been regretted.

Traditional thatched roofs and open-air pavilions epitomise life on this island paradise, and Ranawara encapsulates the distinct flavour. Set around an enormous 30m infinity pool, there is an ever-present grandeur about the property that elicits the island’s true heritage.

Lounging spaces sit across two floors – the upstairs boasting a 360-panorama and gentle sea breeze; the ground floor, a hidden gem, with views of the pool and the perfect spot for a night-cap in one of the regal armchairs. The dining room is fit for banqueting, a table accommodating twelve and adjoined to the kitchen so guests can enjoy the tantalising aromas - as well as the mesmerising views – while they await the ensuing feast. The cinema room is a heavenly escape from the sweltering heat, while the enormous infinity pool invites guests into its cooling embrace.

Each of the five master bedrooms is a decadent delight with their monochrome furnishings and king-sized beds adding to the air of opulence; three give way to the secluded garden landscapes, while two others capture bountiful views over the Indian Ocean from the first floor. Natural wood and chic white ensuites are a delicate combination of old and new; state of the art amenities creating salubrious bathroom experiences. Two guest bedrooms enjoy their own annexe with king-sized beds and ensuite bathrooms – exclusivity awaits no matter where you find your slumber.

Villa Ranawara is the pinnacle of luxury Sri Lankan properties; few have such a depth of detail within their design, while still capturing the diverse heritage of the island - and all within the most idyllic location in the world. Notwithstanding the outstanding décor and capacious living arrangements - facilities such as the extensive library, the surreal home cinema and the optional spa services create one of the greatest vacation experiences available on this castaway paradise.

And the offerings don’t end there, as the expert staff reflect the majesty of the surrounds, promising a hands-on service throughout your stay. Whether the organisation of your villa manager, the diligence of the housekeeping or the prowess of the chef, there is such abundant hospitality that guests can do little but relax in the most rejuvenating of environments, in utter admiration of the kind-heartedness of the team.