Off Rocks, Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

Tucked away in Unawatuna, approximately 140 km south of Colombo, Off Rocks is a small and quietly distinguished property that trades in seclusion rather than scale. The video captures the essence of this garden retreat — two well-appointed villas set within an acre of lush grounds, where the pace slows and the Southern coast of Sri Lanka makes itself gently felt.

The location places guests within approximately 10 minutes of the historic Galle Fort, with the Colombo–Galle main motorway offering the most convenient approach and the Southern railway line providing an alternative for those arriving by train.

Accommodation

Off Rocks offers two villas, each finished with a considered mix of materials and furnishings drawn from across the region. En-suite bathrooms are fitted with Italian toilets finished in granite and chrome, while the interiors feature Burma teak flooring, Rajasthan furniture and a selection of Chinese antiques. Carpets and linen are sourced from India, and a distinctly Sri Lankan character runs through each space. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, hot and cold water, cable television on a flat screen, a telephone and an internet connection.

Dining and Facilities

Meals at Off Rocks are prepared with evident care. Guests can expect a variety of appetisers, five-course meals, desserts, exotic fruits, champagne and wine. A fully equipped open kitchen is also available for those who prefer to cook for themselves. Dining can be taken under the stars, or guests may simply sit with a cup of tea as the sea breeze comes in off the coast.

The property includes a natural swimming pool filled with seawater, sun loungers for unhurried afternoons and a mini library. The garden, planted with fine flora, offers its own quiet pleasures throughout the day.

Wildlife and Excursions

Unawatuna is notably rich in biodiversity. Bird enthusiasts can look out for more than 60 species in the area, among them Egrets, Herons, Sandpipers, Kingfishers, Whistling Duck, the Asian Palm Swift, the White Breasted Water Hen and the Black Bittern. Offshore, a number of coral reefs, shipwrecks, fish and turtles can be found along the coast, including the Rumassala coral reefs at the eastern end of Galle Harbour.

For those drawn to the outdoors, eco treks through the shrub jungles of Rumassala are available, as are trips to Yala. History enthusiasts will find the city of Galle — with its magnificent Fort and its historical churches and buildings still standing — a natural and rewarding destination nearby.