Kurumba Villas

Introduction

Kurumba Villas has become an instant hit in Sri Lanka’s west coast resort of Bentota. It strengthens our faith that good standards can still be obtained at a competitive price. Everything about Kurumba Villas is bright and charming, from its five colourful cabanas dotted around a beautiful coconut grove strewn with flowering shrubs, an inviting swimming pool with loungers and sun shades and countless caring touches such as large pots and a well-kept pond, all of which contribute to an uplifting atmosphere which sets it apart from many properties in this price bracket. Rekha and Nalinda, the impressive owners of the property, set standards of care and attention to detail that rival properties in higher price brackets. The busy coastal road can be a mild distraction at the busiest times but the confident expanse of Bentota beach is only a short stroll away.

Accommodation

There are five good-quality, brightly-coloured chalets all with a/c and ceiling fan: a three bed-room chalet closest to the main road but with garden-facing windows and verandah, two superior chalets and two standard chalets. All chalets have comfortable beds, excellent bathrooms with modern shower fittings, satellite tv, chairs and table, outside sitting areas, fridge and adequate lighting and tea/coffee facilities. All are fully equipped to an excellent standard.

Family cabana (3 bedrooms): This can sleep a total of eight people with two double beds in one room and one double bed in reach of the other two rooms. Two of the rooms have attached bathrooms. A kitchen has a microwave, cooker, fridge and basic crockery and utensils. There is also a sitting room with a sofa and two comfy chairs.

Superior cabanas: The two superior cabanas have one bedroom with a king sized bed and sofa bed. There is also a separate area with a sink, off the main room. The superior cabanas are larger than the standard cabana.

Standard cabanas: The standard cabanas are furthest back into the coconut grove and have one double bed and a small additional room. In one of the cabanas there is an extra bed; in the other there is a sink area.

Facilities

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and, at the rare times it does not reach the far chalets, the owners will set up an additional router by your room. An extra channel can be added to the satellite TV for the day on request – ideal if you want to catch up with a specific movie or sports event. The swimming pool is cleaned daily and is an excellent size for this type of property. Staff include a nightwatchman, handyman and cook: do not mistake this for a homestay. The Garden View restaurant is on the main verandah where a sensibly small selection of freshly-cooked dishes using local produce are offered; Sri Lankan and western breakfasts are available. There is a laundry service and rooms are cleaned every two days; daily on request. At the time of writing, credit cards could not yet be accepted (there are ATMs in Bentota) and no alcohol licence – BYO is straightforward with an off-licence within easy reach.

Why We Like It

This great budget choice in Bentota offers comfortable cabanas and a nice pool

Location

Kurumba Villas is in the centre of Bentota, on the landside of the coastal road that goes through the town. Bentota’s beautiful beach is a short stroll away and a nearby supermarket enables you to stock up with provisions. About two hours from the international airport.