Suspended off the southern tip of India, the pocket-sized island of Sri Lanka punches well above its weight when it comes to both natural and cultural attractions. Flora and fauna thrive here in their most unspoiled forms, while the country’s rich history and ancient monuments enchant discerning travellers. Then there are the beaches, which remain some of the most untouched in Asia. Palm-lined and stretching for miles along Sri Lanka’s coastline, these sandy expanses promise relaxation and sun-soaked days.
The country boasts a selection of villas that embody both the island’s rich heritage and its contemporary charm. From beachfront properties that seamlessly merge with the horizon to secluded hilltop retreats nestled among lush tea plantations, the villas in Sri Lanka offer the perfect base for an immersion into the country’s diverse landscapes. These boutique boltholes are more than just places to stay; they’re a reflection of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and architectural ingenuity. Find your perfect stay from which to explore the teardrop isle’s treasure trove of attractions, and read on for our selection of the top 10 villas in Sri Lanka…
Prices from: £97pppn
Ranked among the world’s top luxury villas in Sri Lanka by The Times, Villa Shala is a sophisticated and stylish sanctuary situated on the southern coast. Sleeping up to 18 guests, it features elegant interiors, filled with local furnishings and artwork, and stunning ocean views. Inside, the villa boasts spacious living areas, six luxurious bedrooms, a children’s playroom, and even a cinema. Its well-equipped kitchen is put to great use by the in-house catering team, who can prepare custom menus and spice-laden traditional dishes. Outdoors, the villa is enveloped by an immaculately landscaped garden, complete with palm trees and colourful flowers. Just steps from the beach, it’s a perfect getaway for families or groups seeking privacy, luxury, and relaxation.
Prices from: £70pppn
The clue is in the name with Hilltop Pavillion. This heavenly retreat is set above the surrounding landscape, boasting stunning views of the garden, ocean and nearby lake. Blending contemporary architecture and modern design with traditional features, the villa features five luxurious ensuite bedrooms. Set within an expansive walled garden, the home offers secluded outdoor spaces for relaxation, including a pool, games pavilion, and swimmable lake. Although the most unique features are definitely the trampoline, slackline, and skate park, which guarantee hours of fun for youngsters. When you’re not spending time relaxing inside this luxe haven, take time to explore the top surf spots, beach bars and restaurants, situated just a stone’s throw away.
Prices from: £111pppn
Nestled within two acres of tropical gardens – comprising jackfruit, papaya and coconut trees – Pastel House is a bohemian-chic retreat with stunning views of Sri Lanka’s countryside. The carefully-curated villa interior blends Sri Lankan, Mediterranean, and Moroccan styles, making for an imaginative take on a traditional Sri Lankan bungalow. With over 6,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, including spacious verandas and a beautiful pool, it accommodates up to eight guests in four elegant suites. But it’s the light-filled living room that really steals the show, with its pops of colour and quirky furnishings. Located just minutes from the region’s idyllic beaches and Galle Fort, it’s the perfect base for getting under the skin of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Prices from: £88pppn
Seaside Sanctuary, situated on a peaceful beach just 10km from historic Galle, offers the ideal blend of modern luxury and traditional Sri Lankan design, with Dutch colonial touches. The spacious home accommodates up to eight guests, featuring bright living areas, a games room, and a well-equipped kitchen, where the talented chef can craft flavourful Sri Lankan dishes. Upstairs, four ocean-view bedrooms lead to a terrace that overlooks the glistening infinity pool and private beach below. With access to your own strip of golden sand, you’ll have everything you need within the grounds. But – if you can prize yourself away from the pool – we’d recommend exploring the nearby attractions of Galle Fort, the small town of Boossa, and the adjacent surf beaches.
Prices from: £47pppn
Modern comfort meets coastal charm at Talpe Beach House, a colourful and bijou beachside villa that sleeps four guests. Enter through the arched doorway and you’ll be greeted by sweeping ocean views in the distance. The villa features two beautifully appointed bedrooms: a luxurious king-size and a cosy twin, each with stylish en-suite bathrooms. Sleek pink polished concrete floors add elegance, while the open-plan living area welcomes natural light and ocean breezes. Large double doors lead to a terrace complete with seating and sun-loungers, as well as private beach access and natural rock pools below which are perfect for little ones to paddle in.
Prices from: £80pppn
Sitting atop a cliff near much-loved Mirissa, this stunning five-bedroom villa promises breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and access to a secluded beach. With a lush lawn punctuated by palm trees, an 18m infinity pool, and a yoga pavilion, every corner of this immaculately designed home turns towards the turquoise sea. The Palladian-style main house features a grand 16m vaulted ceiling and spacious living areas, while the terraced gardens take you down to the sand and sea below. Enjoy sunset views from the veranda, soak up the peace and quiet of your sanctuary, or travel a few minutes by tuk-tuk to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mirissa Beach.
Prices from: £140pppn
Step back in time at Galle House, a historic villa built in 1712 that sits on an acre of land above the charming city of Galle. Offering 180-degree views of the famed UNESCO-listed Fort and the Indian Ocean, the villa was originally designed for a Dutch admiral and combines quiet luxury with historical charm. Its four suites flank a stately entrance gallery, and each features restored Dutch beds, period bathrooms, and private garden access. Outside, you’ll find extensive lawns, a secluded pool area and outdoor dining space. Experience elegance and tranquillity among the lush surroundings of this timeless retreat.
Prices from: £90pppn
Blending into the surrounding jungle and lush paddy fields, this spectacular hilltop villa in Sri Lanka offers exceptional vistas and is situated just 10 minutes from the nearest beach. The property contains seven bedrooms, including four suites in the main house and three separate suites on the lower terrace. The master and queen suites lead out onto private balconies that overlook the show-stopping swimming pool and sun-soaked pavilion. Featuring a private gym, an outdoor games court (for football, basketball, cricket, and badminton), and a dedicated massage spa, it has all of the ingredients for both an active and relaxing stay.
Prices from: £62
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Kathaluwa by the shimmering Koggala Lake, Kathaluwa Villa promises a serene escape. The villa, split between two pavilions, offers breathtaking lake views, with the master suite opening to a private terrace. Two cosy bedrooms, each with an en-suite, are charming and comfortable in equal measure. Relax by the tiled pool, unwind on the sun deck, or dine in the charming outdoor pavilion. A private chef is on hand to cater to your every craving, while the private jetty invites tranquil boat rides across the serene waters.
Prices from: £47
This captivating three-bedroom villa offers breathtaking ocean views and stunning sunsets from its private roof terrace. Designed for laid-back elegance, the open-plan layout invites a gentle breeze, blending indoor comfort with outdoor charm. The master suite enjoys direct terrace access, while two ground-floor bedrooms overlook a peaceful courtyard and plunge pool. With a dedicated housekeeper to prepare breakfast and keep things pristine, this villa is the perfect mix of relaxation and local adventure.
This is just a selection of our favourite villas in Sri Lanka, and we’ve got so much more to offer! Browse all of our destinations on Oliver’s Travels, and if you’d like to see what other services we can provide, contact our friendly concierge team.
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