Bethany 101, Puttalam

Bethany 101 is one of the most unusual villas in Sri Lanka. Firstly, it is in Puttalam: a dusty corner of Sri Lanka that is little troubled by tourist visits. An ethnically diverse area it is traditionally home to a sizeable Muslim population as well as Tamils, Christians and Sinhalese.

The 170-year-old family villa has been painstakingly recreated to reflect the design aesthetic of the original occupiers, reflecting the tastes of ‘old Ceylon’ and in particular the Moorish family who were the original occupiers.

The result is an absolutely magnificent if slightly austere villa, unlike anything else in Sri Lanka. Whilst the inside out courtyard effect is characteristic of many tropical villas, the heavy wooden furnishings and the intricately carved fittings are very special and unique.

There are 6 guest bedrooms and very large living and relaxing areas; guests have plenty of privacy as well as a feeling that they are rediscovering a bygone age and culture. The service is high end, though lacking in a hotel- school polish: this is a place for visitors who want to experience something very special and different, not run of the mill.

The villa is just over the road from Puttalam Lagoon and there are magnificent views from the tower and the second-floor bedrooms.  As well as exploring the lagoon, the beaches of nearby Kalpitiya are nearby as is Wilpattu National Park. From whale watching at Kalpitiya to leopard spotting at Wilpattu, you can combine some serious wildlife appreciation with this cultural treat.