Skye House

This magisterial property of urbane delight is decorous in its design, offering the ultimate in lavish escapes. Supremely private, with exclusive beach access through wooden gates at the back, Skye House is a marvellous five-bedroom villa that can accommodate up to fourteen guests. Neighbouring bath-temperature waters that are safe for swimming in certain seasons, with a joyous playground located right in the grounds, this beautifully-appointed beach house is the ideal stop off for large groups travelling with lots of younger members.

The culturally-rich Fort Galle is within easy reach, while the delights of Mirissa are just down the road; it is easy to see why Sri Lanka now flies the flag for luxury travel as the high-flyers of the world flock to its tropical environs. Guests hoping for warming home comforts in decadently-decorated surrounds should seek out this property, and marvel at its chic elegance and convivial atmosphere.

Set on Koggala beach - equidistant from Fort Galle and Weligama - the full delights of the island are at guests’ fingertips when staying at Skye House. Ten kilometres to the famous citadel of Galle – its labyrinth of streets luring visitors in, with its European-cum-tropical charm capturing their hearts – and the same to Weligama but in the other direction, whose deep golden sands absorb the crashing waves that consistently roll in to its crescent beach. Mirissa is about half-an-hour in a Tuk Tuk and is the gorgeous harbour from which captains charter their boats, ferrying passengers out to the Indian Ocean to witness the magical spectacle of diving blue whales in all their magnificent glory.

The recently developed super-highway makes the southern coast eminently accessible from the airport, the villa just a two-hour transfer after arrival. A coastal destination to die for, particularly when looking to please younger members of the family.

Set discretely off the road not far from Koggala, this divine villa harbours a beach-house charm of the utmost elegance. Expansive balconies create an ocean-side atmosphere that guests crave, while direct access to an exclusive shoreline is a rare privilege. Complimented by a generous pool and private playground that includes two swings, a pirate hut and monkey bars, this property is a playful delight.

Bedrooms are refined in their décor; the master suite includes a king-sized bed and ensuite, home to a beautiful bathtub, and French windows open onto the south-facing veranda. A second master bedroom also enjoys a huge bed and an ensuite shower, with a similarly situated balcony for evening sunsets and sublime sea views. A third room includes six bunk beds – the ultimate children’s getaway and a cavern of chaos that adults can avoid, if they dare. One further twin and another double complete sleeping arrangements, both ensuite with folding doors leading to private balconies; the perfect solution in this tropical climate.

Lounging and dining unite into one integrated space; the ultimate in convivial living with peaceful views across the garden and ample space for socialising. Those less prone to relaxing can recede to the games room where TV, DVD’s and table tennis await, affording the perfect respite for weary parents.

Skye House is of generous proportions allowing large groups to enjoy serene isolation in a perfect beach property. With a hatchery just along the beach, marvel in the delight of baby sea turtles as they make their way to the sea at certain times throughout the year; your very own National Geographic display.

The warm-hearted Sri Lankan staff will make this a trip to remember as the chef brings forth bountiful banquets each evening, graciously served by the butler in the comfort of the dining room, or under sparkling night skies on the terrace. Housekeeping ensure the villa remains at its elegant best, while security allow peace-of-mind, so guests are safe in the knowledge that the wellbeing of their loved-ones is taken care of.

The ample living space, coupled with a private study, allow rambunctiousness and peacefulness to co-exist, making this the perfect family retreat.