The style of the property mixes old worldly charm with extremely contemporary design. Locally made antique furniture blends harmoniously with the bungalow’s striking black and white theme which runs throughout.

WHAT ITS GOT

There are four bedrooms in the property, three doubles and one twin. Zanzibar is perhaps the preferred choice because although it is the smallest, it enjoys views over the pool and down to the ocean. It is light and airy with a queen sized double bed carved from Jackwood and some exquisite pieces of furniture.

The only foreseeable downside to Zanzibar is that it opens directly onto the communal veranda and so perhaps not ideal for early nights and lazy mornings. Opt instead for one of the others Mandalay or Malacca. Pondicherry is the twin.

The highlight of the Colony's is the beautiful veranda that sits elevated above the infinity pool and provides great views of the ocean. Guests have the option to dine here or just sit and enjoy a cold gin 'n' tonic.

FOOD & DRINKS

Owner Michael Forbes says that his aim is to create a bit of a foodie’s paradise at the Colony, doing the absolute best within the limitations of their surroundings. The food we tried was good and there were difficulties with supply given that it was a full moon day, but not necessarily up to European standards just yet. The tomato and mozzarella salad to start was classic, simple and therefore delicious and the main course of chicken with chargrilled vegetables was very nice.

Regular trips to Colombo ensure a good selection of wines starting at £16 a bottle and the house cocktail the 'Colony Arak Sour' is a must. This aspect of our dinner was fantastic and with such a superb host in Michael we couldn't fail to have a delightful evening.

Light lunches, salads and sandwiches cost from £3.
3 course dinner is £14 per head.

FUN & GAMES

Tangalle (on the south east coast) is beautiful and undeveloped with stunning coastal beaches both in and out of season. There is limited swimming at the Colony itself, but Michael and Alison also own a nearby property call 'Ernest' which has an absolutely marvelous beach and they will happily take you there for the day on request. The hotel is also ideally positioned for trips up to Yala Safari Park, Ude Walawe, Dondra Lighthouse and several local turtle hatchery.

WHAT OTHERS THOUGHT

"Having stayed in some top notch places, this was the best two nights' sleep we had in two weeks in Sri Lanka. Great hosts! Great beaches! A truly lovely place to stay and unwind."
(January 2006, Alan & Donna Armitage)

"Thanks for the great hospitality, food, conversation and boogie boarding. Wonderful place, company and view. Had a great time." (August 2006, Danny Barnard)

ESSENTIAL EXTRAS

Occasionally noise can be heard from the road outside.

The hotel does not accept children under the age of 12 unless the whole villa is booked.

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 - Yes
Restaurant - On Site
3 double beds
3 bathrooms
3 en-suite
Sea Views