Villa Shala

Listed as one of the top ten luxury villas in the world by The Times, Villa Shala is, without a doubt, a fantastic home for those wishing to visit Sri Lanka. This stunning, sophisticated home sits paces away from the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean and is staffed by a fantastic team who are on hand to ensure you have the perfect trip.

Sleeping up to eighteen guests, this villa is ideally suited to a larger family or group of friends who want space and privacy. The villa is situated in lush tropical gardens filled with vibrant florals and towering palm trees. This private haven has been constructed from the finest materials by skilled local artisans to create an elegant space filled with antique furnishings and original artwork. Everything here works harmoniously to create a warm and welcoming home that looks out over the leafy surroundings and the sea.

The vast main villa is set over two floors and has all the space needed for a larger party. The living room offers comfortable sofas and day beds where you chat and unwind together and leads to a lovely breakfast room, where cabinets of blue and white china stand ready for the morning breakfast service. On top of these more formal spaces is a children's TV room and a large cinema room where you can get the popcorn out and watch your favourite movies comfortably.

The bedrooms at Villa Shala are bright and airy and boast access to a wraparound veranda or a private terrace. With super-king-sized beds and en-suite bathrooms, you are assured of a restful night's sleep here. Six gorgeous bedrooms are located within the main villa on the first floor, including the brilliant bunk room where the kids can enjoy a sleepover every night under the watchful eye of a nanny who can utilise one of the larger beds if needed. Outdoors, one more bedroom, the Garden Room, is tucked away in the oasis-like grounds. This room is a romantic retreat for a couple.

The kitchen here is well-equipped, and it is here that the catering team, led by a highly-regarded local chef, will prepare dishes throughout the day. When you book your stay, you can select menus depending on your preferences and dietary requirements. Some days, you may wish to take all of your meals at Villa Shala, while others may opt to go out to a restaurant. Whatever you wish, this can be accommodated. The menus here are delicious and varied, from breakfast tables brimming with regional dishes and British staples to lunch and dinner menus made up of Sri Lankan cuisine and sumptuous international dishes. One night you could be tucking into a seafood feast; the next, you could be sampling some of Sri Lanka's tastiest street food. There are even vegan menus and children's menus on offer. In addition to the kitchen staff, the home boasts a manager, cleaning and waiting staff, while yogis, masseurs and therapists can be booked on request.

Outdoors, the home is enveloped by a breathtaking landscaped garden filled with palm trees, lawned areas and colourful florals. Here, you can find the large swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and hammocks and even a 20-metre water slide with its own pool! Whether you wish to dine al-fresco on the atmospheric terrace, play a game of cricket or practice yoga with a local teacher, this space is yours to do as you wish for the duration of your trip. With fenced grounds and 24-hour security, you can feel safe and relaxed as you unwind here.

If you can bring yourself to leave Villa Shala, you will be happy to learn that you are just a stone's throw away from the nearest sandy beach, just at the end of the garden. There are countless beaches within easy reach of the villa, including Hiriketiya Bay, one of the best on the island.

On top of the postcard-worthy beaches, within proximity to the villa, you can visit Buddhist temples, charming villages and protected parkland. Bustling towns with historic attractions and traditional markets are also easily accessed by car.