This property would appeal to anyone who enjoys a slower pace of life, families wanting to spend some quality time together, walking fans, bird watchers, golf enthusiasts and those who just crave something totally unique from a holiday.

The Knuckles mountain range which runs behind the house is still undeveloped for tourism. Visitors here will never encounter other tourists on their tea estate walks which are, incidentally, stunningly beautiful.

Rangala House is under British / Sri Lankan management. Anthony Newman (a former teacher from Bristol), with his business partner Sam Gunaratne ensure top quality, personal service for guests, combined the best of European and local hospitality. Sam is also on the committee at nearby Victoria Golf Course and can therefore provide for the needs of all budding golfers!

WHAT ITS GOT

Rangala House has three bedrooms, all twins with en-suite bathrooms. The tranquil feel of the house, with terracotta floors and mahogany cane furniture, is perfectly in keeping with its up-country location.

The main body of the house comprises a huge sitting/dining room with a stone built fireplace. Double French windows lead out onto a 50ft veranda, which runs along the back of the property. The 180 degree views from this part of the house defy words and simply have to be seen to be believed. On a clear day, you can see Bible Rock many miles away and at night the lights of Kandy can be seen twinkling in the far distance. No photos of this property could ever do it justice outside or in.

The lounge comes with a tv/dvd player with many satellite channels and an extensive film collection. For music lovers, there is a high quality sound system (classical and jazz CDs available) and a Roland electric piano. Internet access is also available. The owners (who live in an adjacent but detached apartment) have a home cinema room which guests are welcome to use on request.

The pool is a good size and the gardens are extremely attractive including their very own spice garden and mountain stream.

FOOD & DRINKS

Although restricted by what is available locally the menu is varied and well presented. Meals will be structured entirely around guests’ likes and dislikes and so any special requirements can be discussed with the staff on arrival. For lunch we enjoyed a spread of salad, cooked meats, daily breads, pate and chicken accompanied by a crisp glass of white wine. The Sri Lankan cooking, described by recent guests as the best they had tasted anywhere in the country, is absolutely authentic, cooked by locals using local produce. The food like everything else at Rangala House has a wonderful homely feel which makes for a very comfortable and relaxing holiday.

For those who take the whole villa, all food and drink is charged at cost only – a terrific deal which makes things very affordable.

FUN & GAMES

Rangala House is a mecca for bird-watchers, walkers and hikers because of its position on the edge of the Knuckles Conservancy Region, cooler climate and idyllic views. It is also a favourite with golfers who come to use the nearby Victoria Golf Club, which is about 40mins away.

Kandy makes a good day trip, with points of interest such as the Temple of the Tooth and the Botanical Gardens to visit. For those who are especially eager the Elephant Orphanage and Dambulla Cave Temples can also be reached in a day and the air taxi which lands at the Victoria reservoir, can facilitate trips to almost all parts of the island.

Alternatively, stay closer to home and visit the estate's tea factory or take a bumpy 4X4 drive up to Corbett's Gap and Riverston Park, beauty spots much favoured by discerning Sri Lankans but little known to tourists.

WHAT OTHERS THOUGHT

"What a refreshing and enchanting experience. Rangala House offers relaxation at its best..." (P Willmott, Shrewsbury)

"Thank you for a wonderful few days. A lovely place in stunning surroundings and the hospitality has been second to none – it's been perfect!" (Ledbury, England)

ESSENTIAL EXTRAS

Prices include VAT, but no service charge is included in the price, this is left to guests' discretion.

The villa can only be booked as a whole over Christmas and New Year.

If you are taking the whole villa, the price also includes:- Airport transfers (4 hours)

All transport costs for the duration of your stay (up to 50km per day) including the services of an English-speaking driver / guide.

All cleaning and laundry services.

Household staff for cooking and cleaning.

Click for more information on: Sri Lanka Holidays, Sri Lanka Villas, Sri Lanka Hotels, Sri Lanka Tours. Better still give us a call on 0207 112 0019 or email srilanka@fleewinter.com for free independent advice on the best places to stay.

Key Features:
Pool - Private
Restaurant - Fully-Staffed
6 single beds
3 bathrooms
3 en-suite
City Views
Mountain Views