Halala Kanda was built in 1912 by Simonmeru Gunathilaka, the romantic son of a wealthy plantation estates owner from the north of Sri Lanka, to win the heart of his young local bride.

After many decades empty, the estate villa in Weligama was re-discovered in 2010, overrun with jungle and near ruin. A labour of love, the new South Pacific owners, chose to work with local craftsmen, to restore the house back to its former opulent splendour, whilst adding their own eclectic design aesthetic.

Set in the lush plantation hills of Weligama, Halala Kanda once more offers a serene oasis to relax and recharge, yet is within easy reach of the pristine southern beaches and the historic charm of Galle.

The house has generous accommodation options with two verandah suites with private access to the main gardens, two luxury suites with their own private walled gardens and two double suites opening out onto lounge areas on the front terrace.

The suites are open and airy, with high ceilings, wide-opening French doors, and both fans and air-conditioning. Four of the suites each have their own private bathing rooms and dressing areas.

Just steps from the main house, is Halala Kanda’s pristine salt-water pool, at 23 meters long, it is the perfect spot to work off the calories and let the stresses of the day melt away.

And with its view stretching off across the jungle and paddy fields to the coast, it’s also a relaxing spot to dabble at the pool edge and watch life go by.