Ulagalla

On arrival through the big wooden gates, you are greeted with a cool welcome drink under the frangipani trees outside the beautiful original Wallawwa. As the estate is so huge, you are driven to your room by golf buggy and pass the organic gardens, the stables for horse riding and the expanse of paddy fields where you can spot peacocks and buffalo. The rooms themselves are large cabins hidden amongst the trees with shaded plunge pools and decks and inside a large bedroom, bathroom and separate sitting area where you can easily fit a bed. Bikes are provided for the pretty cycle back to the main house or you can call a golf buggy at any time. In front of the main house there is a huge swimming pool overlooking the open fields and it is a delight to relax in the sun and listen to the chorus of birdsong. The service is excellent and the staff really friendly, always asking about your day. The upstairs dining room is cooled by traditional fans so you can enjoy your traditional rice and curry in comfort and if anything they are over generous with the food portions. The ideal location makes it very easy to plan your excursions to all the major attractions in the area and a soothing spa treatment is recommended after a hot walk around the historic sites.