Nisala Arana Boutique Hotel, Bentota

Nisala Arana is a luxury boutique hotel tucked away in the coastal village of Bentota, on the south-western coast of Sri Lanka. Hidden within four and a half acres of spacious tropical gardens and sitting just ten minutes from the beach, the property offers a rare blend of colonial architecture, antique furnishings and unhurried garden living. The entire property consists of three villas housing six beautifully appointed bedroom suites, making it an intimate retreat favoured by travellers who seek quiet elegance over large-resort bustle.

Bentota lies approximately 64 kilometres south of Colombo — roughly an hour and a half away. Guests can reach the property by luxury airport transfer, by the buses and trains that run daily from Colombo Fort, or by seaplane service from the airport directly to Bentota. An open pavilion on the grounds serves as the dining space, where guests may enjoy cuisine and fine wines, while a freshwater pool and yoga-inspiring gardens complete the sense of restful seclusion.

The Doctor's House

This Dutch Colonial bungalow has been restored to its former character and charm. Its layout flows from an open column veranda through a dining area with a central courtyard reflection pond, and into a living room distinguished by ornate arches, white walls and polished floors. A library, local artwork, wooden antique furniture and Persian rugs add further warmth throughout. The master bedroom overlooks both the pool and the garden and features a king-size four-poster bed, an antique almirah, writing desk and chair. A second bedroom offers twin four-poster beds, and both rooms look out over the inner courtyard's lotus pond. The bathroom is finished in polished cement and opens to an outdoor garden shower.

Mango Villa

Positioned with open views across the garden and pool, the Mango Villa contains two elevated suites, each stylishly furnished with twin four-poster beds, an almirah, writing desk and day bed. The bathrooms are shaded and fitted with a half-wall of windows in Sri Lankan trelliswork, with white canvas blinds for privacy. A broad veranda features a rare antique balustrade, and Jaffna temple doors open into the bedroom suites. On the ground floor, a vintage car collection — including an open-top Morris Minor available for use with a driver upon request — adds an unexpected and delightful touch.

Coconut Wing

Named after a tall coconut palm that rises from its wide and inviting veranda, the Coconut Wing is a colonial structure characterised by very high ceilings, polished cement floors and ceiling fans. It contains two double bedrooms, each with a large canopied queen bed and antique furnishings, and each opening directly onto a spacious outdoor tropical bathroom.