Wetakeiya House

This elegant tropical oasis is situated on the outskirts of Dikwella, itself a quaint fishing town on the delightful south coast of Sri Lanka, where an abundance of palm-fringed beaches and breath-taking rocky outcrops stretch as far as the eye can see. Finished in polished cement, Wetakeiya House has a genteel vibe that affords a cooling atmosphere, with spacious, yet minimalist, rooms that perfectly complement the iridescent landscapes that reside beyond. The elevated location creates the archetypal vantage point from which to gaze out over the deep azure of the Indian Ocean, while the southerly aspect absorbs the best of the colourful sunset shows.

Whether indulging in a spot of restful yoga or slipping into the cooling aquamarine waters of the swimming pool, there is a sense of nirvana throughout the grounds as the tropical vibes of Sri Lanka wash over, creating a serene ambience of enraptured calm.

165km from Colombo, slip into sublime sub-tropical bliss at Wetakeiya House, a property hidden amidst a sea of swaying palms and rolling oceans. Just 5-minutes’ walk and find yourself on a pristine crescent bay; gentle waves roll in to suit surfers of all abilities, while the mottled fishing boats of local tradesmen lay idly on the beach. There is no better representation of island life.

Dikwella itself is a sleepy fisherman’s village with a peaceful aura, the daily ocean expeditions meaning there are bountiful seafood delights in the immediate surrounds, yet you can also head further afield for other shoreline pleasures – Mirissa and Weligama being two favourites among guests. The historical Fort Galle is an hour away – this bastion of Sri Lankan heritage harks back to the island’s colonial past – a citadel of winding alleys and open streets, new age coffee shops and high-end boutiques. A mesmerising blend of timeless charm.

This idyllic retreat sits just above the glittering sea, with expansive views across the azure Indian Ocean from the secluded hideaway of the villa. A lower-level plunge pool is the ideal midday spot for chilled sea views, set beneath a beautiful breakfast table, which is built into its surrounds. A generous veranda creates additional al fresco dining, while the landscaped garden stretches among the towering coconut trees. Finally, a secluded pagoda sits in an isolated enclave; and is a real napper’s delight.

Elegant bedrooms await indoors, the master suite including a king-sized bed and folding French doors that provide access to the glorious garden. An ensuite affords ultimate privacy and the air-conditioning is an enchanting reprieve from the sweltering climate. A second bedroom is similarly-appointed but with a queen-sized bed, and the final room has a twin arrangement, which is ideal for younger group members. The capacious living room includes ornate furnishings and inviting sofas, while French doors open out onto breath-taking ocean views.

Sri Lanka is the new haven of escape among jet-setting travellers and, with its warm-hearted communities and sub-tropical climes, it is easy to see why. Where some stretches of beach are becoming increasingly over-developed, travel beyond and discover sublime oasis retreats that seem to have preserved their ethereal castaway atmosphere. Wetakeiya House is one such property, set in the idyll of Dikwella, and just five-minutes’ walk from one of the most serene beaches on the island.

With its external sound system, guests can sit back and admire the astounding views to the dulcet tones of their favourite singer, or recede to the majesty that is the yoga pavilion and find moments of calm. The expertly-trained staff will leave you wanting for nothing, whilst the cuisine of the villa chef is indescribable; such is the bounty available on this coastal isle that no two days are the same – from spicy sambals to the sweetest prawns, dine like royalty on a daily basis.