Frangipani

Perfectly poised at the water’s edge looking out to breathtaking views over Lake Koggala, Villa Frangipani is in a magical and tranquil setting, perfect for a relaxing getaway near the south coast of Sri Lanka. This contemporary teak-cladded house features elegant interiors, with a consistent neutral colour palette throughout. An open plan ground floor room is home to a bright and airy sitting room and dining area with stunning lake views, which open to the terrace that is furnished for al fresco dining. The kitchen completes the ground floor where the villa’s excellent chef prepares a mixture of traditional Sri Lankan and international dishes . Outside, the inviting infinity pool has three levels so you can sit, swim or paddle, as you please, with sunbeds and parasols for poolside lounging. The vast tropical garden features lush lawns, swaying palms, pink Bougainvillea and Frangipani trees. The lakeside hammock is the perfect place to read or just relax and watch the world go by; in the early hours see fisherman returning to the nearby jetty with their latest catch.

Upstairs in the main house there are four beautiful, spacious and near identical en suite bedrooms, all of which are air-conditioned with a four-poster bed and lookout to the lake. The two central rooms are interconnecting, making it ideal for families with children. Each en suite boasts a covered outdoor shower, indoor tub, two sinks and a little private garden, while a shared open viewing terrace runs along the length of the bedrooms, adorned with wicker seating. A separate air-conditioned Garden Suite provides great space and privacy, and houses a four-poster bed, en suite bathroom, walk-in-wardrobe, sitting room with Satellite TV and a pool table. There is also a covered outdoor sofa seat set, which allows for an impressive unspoiled view of the pool and lake.

The famous beaches of the Southern coast – Habaraduwa, Ahangama, Weligama, and Unawatuna – are all nearby and the house has bicycles for guests use, with Koggala beach an easy 10-minute drive away. The house also has a private boat, so lake tours and fishing trips can be arranged upon request. For wonderful restaurants and charming boutique shopping, UNESCO world heritage site Galle Fort is less than a 30 minutes’ drive from the villa.