Victoria, Galle, Sri Lanka

Victoria is a five-bedroom villa nestled within a coconut grove directly on the beach, with landscaped gardens that look out over the Indian Ocean. Sitting only 8 kilometres from the historic town of Galle, it occupies a setting that balances seclusion with easy access to one of Sri Lanka's most storied destinations.

Designed by a leading Australian architect for his own use, Victoria is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Sri Lankan house. Antique doors and furniture lend the interiors warmth and character, while the layout draws guests gently from a large garden entrance, across a lily pond, and into a broad, comfortable banquette sitting area with sweeping views of the garden, pool and ocean beyond.

Bedrooms

The villa accommodates guests across five bedrooms: a master suite with an attached dressing area, three double bedrooms, and one twin room. All beds are four-poster and fitted with mosquito nets, cooled by overhead fans. Each bedroom opens either onto a private garden courtyard or to the landscaped gardens surrounding the property.

Bathrooms

The master suite features an en-suite bathroom with a shower, a bath tub, and a private outdoor garden shower. The second bedroom has its own en-suite, while the third and fourth bedrooms share an en-suite equipped with a private outdoor garden shower. The fifth bedroom is served by a separate bathroom.

Living and Dining Spaces

The generous sitting area is designed for leisurely hours on the banquette, with uninterrupted views over the garden, pool and the Indian Ocean. Come evening, the enclosed dining room is set for ten and candlelit for dinner — an atmosphere that suits both intimate gatherings and larger house parties alike.

Beach-front Pavilion

Perched directly above the beach, the pavilion offers uninterrupted coastal views and serves equally well for morning tea, an afternoon nap, or sundowners as the light fades over the ocean.

Staff and Meals

A dedicated team — comprising a cook, a steward and houseboy, a steward and pool boy who also tends the gardens, and a night watcher — is on hand throughout the stay. The cook prepares both Sri Lankan curries and Western dishes, and will shop for all ingredients from the daily fish, fruit and vegetable markets nearby. Guests are welcome to join him on his market rounds, which makes for an engaging introduction to local produce and daily life along the southern coast.