The Lake House

Introduction

The Lake House is immersed in an acre of lush tropical gardens sloping down to Koggala Lake on Sri Lanka's Galle Coast. This spacious two-storey villa, is contemporary in design but incorporates a traditional Sri Lankan central courtyard. Living spaces are built around this courtyard, landscaped with a water feature and flowering Frangipani Trees. An open-sided living and dining room, polished cement floors and high timber ceilings make this villa cool and airy and offer uninterrupted lake views. Interiors possess comfy sofas, wicker chairs and canopied beds. The Lake House uses solar energy for some of its heating and lighting and a/c is replaced by overhead fans and cooling natural lake breeze. Accommodates up to eight guests and is rented exclusively.

Accommodation

There are four ensuite bedrooms opening on to the central courtyard. Two have lake views and the others have garden views. Three of the bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms with open air showers. There is also one additional ensuite twin room that can be made available upon request. Rooms are comfortably furnished with canopied double beds fitted with mosquito netting. Overhead fans and the lake breeze help to keep the rooms cool.

Facilities

The spacious open-plan living and dining room overlooks the swimming pool and lake beyond. This area is equipped with sofas, a 10-seater dining table, indoor games and books. The swimming pool is a level below and is accessed via a series of steps. There is also a pool pavilion for taking in the spectacular lake views; a massage room set by the poolside (a masseuse can be arranged with prior notice),a canoe for use on the lake, and trishaw. Wifi throughout, Bose music system that can be plugged into your iPod or computer, and satellite TV. Cook, two housekeepers, gardener and night watchman. Sri Lankan and western cuisine is served with fresh village vegetables and fish purchased from the local fisherman. Discuss your meal preferences ahead of time and if you wish, accompany the cook to the village market to do the grocery shopping. There are also several beachside cafes and restaurants where you can dine in Thalpe and Unawatuna Bay just a short 10 minutes away.

Why We Like It

We love the airy, timbered restaurant with a grand view of Koggala Lake at the bottom of a palm-strewn garden.

Location

The Lake House overlooks Koggala Lake, 10 minutes inland from the Galle coast. Galle Fort is only 20 minutes away. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take less than three hours via the Southern highway or hop on an air taxi. If you are heading to the hills afterwards, we offer competitive rates on a sea plane service from Koggala lake to Hatton.