Illuketia, Inland from Galle Sri Lanka, Galle

A magnificent old plantation estate, lovingly restored in 1992, Illuketia is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Sri Lanka.

There are 10 acres of wonderful gardens; exotic tropical blossoms and ferns, and an astonishing variety of plants. In this lush verdant area of Sri Lanka, trees, leaves and plants grow with wild abandon and this is used to outstanding effect in these amazing gardens.

On the top of the hill in the middle of the estate, the house has been both restored and recreated the huge hallways, cool veranda and inner courtyard with its centrepiece pool. The central hall is surrounded by nine antique carved wooden temple doors. Off the inner courtyard are four large double bedrooms.

A little further away is the pool house, with a further two rooms, with its own dining area and butler service should you wish to take both rooms.

The place is surrounded by organic paddy fields and much of the glorious food served here is grown in the gardens or around. There is a 75-foot pool at the end of the garden, adding just another pleasure to the bliss lying in store for guests here.

Illuketia is a 15 minutes drive from Galle and several beautiful southern beaches. Guests have a choice of alternative places to eat in Galle and the hotels around, while Galle Fort is a nearby attraction, should guests wish to explore.