Redcliffs

Introduction

Redcliffs is a magnificent three-bedroom villa with great history and a prime cliff-top location above Weligama Bay and Mirissa Bay on Sri Lanka's south coast It was once the country home of a former president of Sri Lanka, the late J.R. Jayawardene. This iconic villa was designed by Sri Lanka’s architecture guru, the late Geoffrey Bawa with open sided living spaces where you can relax and take in breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Living and dining is in an open sided area on the ground floor opening out to the gardens, cliffs and the sea beyond. The three bedrooms are located on a level above and below the living area. In addition to the swimming pool, there are two secluded beaches that are safe for swimming during the season from December to April. The beach is reached via a series of steps going downhill. Redcliffs can be booked in its entirety or by the room with exclusive use of the villa. Up to eight guests can be accommodated. Parental supervision is recommended for children below 12 years of age.

Accommodation

The villa consist of three bedrooms of which the family room is located a few steps above the living and dining area; and two more bedrooms are at a level below.

The upper floor bedrooms: The family room opens on to a small lounge area and have sea views across the open plan living room. The bedroom is air-conditioned and furnished with double beds fitted with mosquito netting. Overhead fans and the ocean breeze that comes through the windows help to keep these rooms cool. Ensuite bathrooms have h/w open air showers.

The lower level bedrooms:  The double and twin room downstairs have A/C with ensuite bathrooms. While of one of the room has its own larger living space, the other room opens up to a larger private garden.

Facilities

In keeping with Bawa’s architectural style of erasing boundaries between the inside and out, the living and dining areas open out to the swimming pool, sprawling gardens, the surrounding red cliffs, and spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. The living and dining area is furnished with lounge chairs and a dining table that are Bawa’s original designs. There is a small lounge at a level below which is equipped with satellite TV, fridge, and a small pantry with filtered water, crockery and cutlery. Redcliffs has a housekeeper and a cook who will prepare tasty meals to your liking. Sri Lankan cuisine, BBQs and snacks are available prepared with fresh seafood purchased from the local fisherman. Guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages.

Why we like it

Great 180 degree views of Weligama and Mirissa bays from this distinctive hilltop property

Location

Surrounded by acres of lush tropical gardens, the villa is situated towards the western end of Weligama Bay with the beaches of Mirissa five minutes further along the A2 to Matara. The historic city of Galle is about 45 minutes away. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take about 3.5 hours via the Southern highway. Avoid road travel and take the Air Taxi and fly into Koggala. If you are heading into the hills afterwards, we offer competitive rates on a sea plane service from Koggala lake to Hatton.