Introduction
Owl and the Pussycat is a stylish hotel fronted by the sea in Thalpe on the Galle Coast. Themed round Edward Lear’s famous nonsense poem, the hotel is designed by New York architect Uday Dhar and is minimalist in design with quirky, vibrant décor which reflects the fun, unusual content of the poem. Subtle images of owls and cats depicted in a contemporary style, lively modern art, bright colours and fascinating sculptures give the rooms interest without being overbearing, and the property is littered with exquisite handmade artefacts from Sri Lanka, India, Italy and Turkey. Each room and suite is utterly unique and has its own private balcony with views of the ocean. There is a large outdoor seating area by the pool decorated with Mediterranean tiles, as well as tables and benches in polished concrete with colourful, comfortable cushions positioned next to the bar, looking out to the sea and the iconic fisherman’s perches. Palm trees, small garden spaces and sun loungers are scattered through the garden.
Note: Children below 12 years cannot stay at Owl and the Pussycat.
Accommodation
There are sixteen rooms at Owl and the Pussycat, all with either twin or king-sized beds, an ensuite bathroom with h/w rain shower and toiletries and private balcony. Some rooms can be tripled by adding an extra bed. All suites have an open-plan kitchen and spacious living area, as well as a hanging chair on the balcony. There are seven room categories:
Rooms
OTP Signature one double bedroom: On the ground or first floor – balcony looks out over the garden.
Suite Little Treats: Located on the second floor – fabulous ocean views.
Suite Melodies: Spacious rooms on the second floor complete with sitting area and large bathroom. Terrace offers ocean views.
Suites
OTP Signature two-bedroom suite: Signature suites. Double room and twin room, and balcony with views of the Indian Ocean.
OTP Signature one-bedroom Suite: Signature suites. Double room. Terrace complete with comfortable armchairs.
Suite E Pie: Located on the ground and first floor, these suites have an outdoor seating area with ocean views.
Suite Dreams: As well as a terrace, the bedroom also has its own private balcony.
Facilities
Relax in the large pool, illuminated with lights at night, or unwind in the massage pagoda which provides shelter from the sun during the day. Dine under the stars and enjoy a signature spicy cocktail at the bar, or retreat to the a/c restaurant. Western and Sri Lankan cuisine is served, with a focus on fresh seafood. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. There is also a pool, small gym and Yoga classes can be arranged on request. Relax in the vibrantly decorated drawing room, or the library/TV room, which is complete with TV, sofas, desks and books. The hotel has beach access, and the sea is swimmable just 100m away.
Why We Like It
This is what its owners wanted it to be - a colourful, fun and unpretentious beach place which is social and tranquil in equal measure.
Location
Owl and the Pussycat is in Thalpe, just half an hour from Galle and a 45 minute drive from beautiful Mirissa Bay. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take approximately two hours.
Location: Thalpe, Galle Coast
Style: Beach Properties
No. of Rooms: 16
Key Features: Beachside setting; quirky interiors