Somewhere in Sri Lanka there might be a villa with better views, but we’ve yet to find one. Set in the far south of the island, high on a rocky headland, glittering azure water stretches out as far as the eye can see and 3 acres of beautiful tropical gardens envelop you; coconut palms sway above your head wherever you lay your towel. The Saffron House offers total seclusion, gorgeous airy dining and lounging areas, and every possible comfort. Decor is simple yet striking: gleaming polished concrete and clean lines abound, and fresh flowers and bright fabrics add splashes of colour throughout. The 4 bedrooms are elegantly decorated - huge floating beds draped in mosquito netting, furniture hand-built from local teak and mango, and opulent indoor/outdoor bathrooms. Add an infinity pool, a front-row sunset seat, delightful staff cooking freshly caught seafood and knock-out curries, and you're in heaven.
It’s an easy stroll down to horseshoe-shaped Hiriketiya Bay, where you can laze on golden sand and watch surfers ride gentle waves. Yet this idyllic spot is only just being discovered by those who want a quieter and more authentic slice of Sri Lankan coastline, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy main coastal road. Come before it's common knowledge.
Highs
- Laid-back luxury at its best: bags of style yet supremely comfortable and welcoming
- One of the best off-radar locations on the south coast
- Well priced, and rates include a team of fabulous staff
- We loved chef Chris’s food, especially her sublime crab curry. Request as many meals as you like, and just pay for the ingredients
- Extensive gardens - kids will love seeing wild peacocks, monkeys and monitor lizards, and blue whales can be spotted out at sea
Lows
- This is a quieter stretch of coast so don’t expect much in the way of local nightlife
- It takes a bit longer to get here but it’s totally worth the extra hour or so past the busier beaches around Galle
- No twin rooms, though each can fit an additional baby cot or extra bed for a child
- No direct access into the sea, but there are 2 lovely beaches a short walk away
Best time to go
The high season in Sri Lanka is from November to March but coming out of season is cheaper and less crowded, for which a bit of daily but almost scheduled rain is the only price to pay. The villa is open all year.
Our top tips
- Learning to surf on a tropical island is almost a rite of passage. If you’ve never tried before, Hiriketiya Bay is the perfect spot to learn. There’s a gentle beach break, and several surf schools offer lessons as well as cheap board rentals. Afterwards, head back to the villa for a massage followed by a cold beer.
- 5km to the east, Mawella Beach is stunning and often deserted.
Location
The Saffron House lies on the headland separating Dikwella Beach from Hiriketiya Bay (aka Horseshoe Bay), on Sri Lanka's south coast. It's 1 hour from Galle.
By Air:
Fly into Colombo Bandaranaike (203km / 3 hours by car). The owner can arrange a transfer from the airport but if you want to hire a driver and car for your whole holiday, enquire through our Tailormade Tour Operator.
Detailed directions will be sent when you book through i-escape.
More on getting to Sri Lanka and getting around
Airports:
- Colombo Bandaranaike 203.0 km CMB
Other:
- Beach 0.3 km
- Shops 1.0 km
- Restaurant 0.3 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 1 independent review from i-escape guests
The location and views are incredible. You're a short walk from two beaches and the bustle of restaurants and bars, but the house is a tranquil sancturary with vast gorgeous gardens and a lovely pool. Chris and the family take very good care of you, with delicious meals that work for all ages. We had good massages at the house and the kids were delighted by the Christmas fireworks! We felt very lucky to be there and were sad to leave. Perfect spot for intergenerational families or a few families travelling together.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape