Introduction
Those who assume that only the Galle Coast can provide stylish Sri Lankan beach villas should take a look at Villa Saffron. On the southern edge of the bustling town of Hikkaduwa, looking out onto the more select bay of Narigama, and hidden behind sturdy wooden gates, Villa Saffron possesses flair in both its five strikingly large bedrooms and communal areas and benefits from an excellent infinity pool and a splendid stretch of sand that is a few minutes’ stroll from the simple bars and restaurants that spill happily out onto Hikkaduwa beach.
Here is quality to rival the best, although this being Hikka, nothing is ever too stuffy or formal. From plush sofas in a refined downstairs area, you can gaze through large French windows across the terrace and pool to a small private sandy area, studded with palm trees, from where a small wooden gate leads you to a magnificent beach expanse. There is great personal pride in every aspect of Villa Saffron – the walls even bear the owner's private art collection – which makes this elegant villa a great choice for travellers seeking high degrees of comfort but who are also imbued with a little of the youthful spirit seen in the bars and restaurants further along the beach, where life often ends shortly before dawn before the surfers, yoga disciples and joggers usher in the start of a new day. Villa Saffron is unlicensed but you can BYO alcohol.
Accommodation
All five suites have a/c and ceiling fan, mini bar, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities. The two upper rooms (Saffron Suite and Vanilla Suite) can be booked together to reserve the entire upper floor with its own sitting room. The Garden Room can accommodate an extra bed; all other rooms have a sofa bed which can be converted on request.
Garden Room (48 sqm): A cosy nook that opens out into the central courtyard. Dressed in earthen shades, the room is set away from the other four rooms and has an adjoining veranda. The en suite bathroom opens to a small internal courtyard. King-sized bed.
Cinnamon Suite (65 sqm): A stylish ground floor room with garden and ocean views and its own private courtyard. The en suite bathroom also opens to a small internal courtyard. Large covered terrace overlooking the pool. King-sized bed.
Tamarind Suite (60 sqm): Rustic chic is the feel of the Tamarind Suite with its cool stone floors in earthy tones and neutral colours with splashes of colour. The en suite bathroom opens to a small internal courtyard. Also benefits from a large covered terrace overlooking the pool and beach beyond. King-sized bed.
Saffron Suite (102 sqm): The largest and most elegant suite, big enough to feel like a home in itself. This contemporary suite has a king-sized ebony four-poster bed and en-suite bathroom. Hardwood French windows open to a private patio and balcony with sweeping sea views, and possessing in-built seating, table and chairs and Jacuzzi.
Vanilla Suite (70 sqm): A stunning suite with a large four-poster bed, en suite bathroom and a private balcony complete with built-in seating, table and chairs and Jacuzzi overlooking the pool and ocean beyond. The sofa can be converted into a single bed.
Facilities
Dining is on the terrace on the edge of the garden or in the privacy of your own room. Western and Eastern dishes are offered as well as traditional Sri Lankan curry. There is a 24-hour front desk, laundry service (you can DIY if you prefer),free Wi-Fi.
Why We Like It
Villa Saffron has a great beach outlook and offers upmarket rooms without ever losing that chilled-out Hikka vibe.
Location
Villa Saffron lies just south of the vibrant beach town of Hikkaduwa, on the next bay south, Narigama, the setting for a handful of good-quality villas which give a more elegant vibe to this lively section of Sri Lanka's west coast.
Location: Hikkaduwa, West Coast
Style: Beach Property
No. of Rooms: 5
Key Features: Large swimming pool; beach setting; water-sports