Bentota Waterside, Bentota, Sri Lanka

Bentota Waterside is a well-run boutique villa perched along the banks of the Bentota River, offering the peaceful ambience of a village setting. With only six guestrooms, it strikes a balance between intimacy and comfort, making it a quiet haven for holidaymakers looking to escape the bustle of city life.

The property sits within Bentota, widely regarded as one of Sri Lanka's foremost tourist seaside resorts. Approximately 64 km south of Colombo, the entire region is well sheltered by tropical trees, and the villa can be reached via Galle Road or by boat from Bentota or Aluthgama. The Colombo–Galle main road and the Southern Railway line are among the most convenient routes to this corner of the coast.

Accommodation

Each of the six guestrooms is individually designed and furnished entirely with locally crafted pieces, while all paintings and artefacts have been sourced from Sri Lanka. Rooms are equipped with a full bathroom, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, a mini fridge, satellite television and a telephone. Balconies and terraces open onto spectacular views of the river and surrounding gardens, adding a sense of openness to what are otherwise spotlessly maintained, comfortable spaces.

Dining and Facilities

The restaurant at Waterside is sheltered beneath a traditional Sri Lankan timber roof and opens out to the garden, an outdoor swimming pool and the river beyond. Chefs prepare both Sri Lankan and international cuisine from a modern kitchen, and guests are welcome to visit the kitchen upon request. Sri Lankan rice and curry is a house specialty, while the à la carte menu also includes lobster and prawn dishes alongside a selection of international options. The property holds a full liquor license, and a roof bar adds another vantage point from which to take in the riverside setting.

Excursions and Activities

Water sports are just minutes away from the villa, and excursions can be arranged to a number of interesting venues in the surrounding area. The tranquil riverside gardens and versatile event spaces also make Waterside a popular choice for weddings, with flowers, fireworks, local drums, bands and dancers all available to arrange. Romantic poolside tables and garden barbeques can be organised to suit both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.