“Great house, great location” We have just returned from two weeks at Surangana and had an amazing time. I know all the reviews have raved about Manoj and the team but they really are that good. We took our two daughters (aged 10 months and three years old) and they couldn't have been more accommodating and helpful. One morning we gave the three year old the choice of coming to the beach with us or staying behind, naturally she choose to spend the morning in the kitchen chatting to Priya (the cook). The setting and the villa itself is fantastic with wonderful views and no real sounds from the outside world to shatter the illusion that you're not in the jungle or for that matter playing out a colonial fantasy. I'm pretty sure that would not have been the case had we stayed in one of the beach side villas five minutes away. The food needs a separate paragraph because it is fantastic. We couldn't have got bored with the menu and are still suffering withdrawal symptoms from all the spices that were used. So much effort goes in to each meal. Before I run out of superlatives I should warn future guests not to engage in a game of cricket with Manoj or Sanjeeva unless you're currently playing first class cricket. Quite rapid with the ability to move the ball both ways. Thanks for a genuinely great time. The holiday bar has been raised to unrealistic levels.

“cricket in a coconut grove, local markets, friendly staff...” We were in Sri Lanka recently during the Sri Lankan new year time. I can easily say our stay at this beautiful beach house was the highlight of otherwise a hectic 2 week trip to Sri Lanka. Despite it being the hottest time of the year we did not feel the heat because of the sea breeze. House had a rustic feel to it with asian and Mediterranean touches, comfortable furniture and decorated tastefully with what appears to be mostly local products. We especially enjoyed the hammocks and the outdoor shower. It had enough room to accommodate our party of 10. We spent our days lounging, playing cricket, exploring nearby markets and of course eating. Nirmala who is avaialble to hire as a maid during the day was an excellent cook. We were able to find local produce and fresh fish easily at the Matara market and Nirmala cooked them to perfection. Many of us in our group loved to cook and we had all the utensils we needed and beautiful tableware to serve them. We did not brave the ocean by the house but Polhena beach was easy walking distance from the house. Mr Perera was always there to open the gate and was a reassuring presence at night. He even caught us a crab. Mr ahmed was there to meet us on arrival and seemed to be a very nice person. They all spoke very fondly of the owners. As many of you know the owner Emanuela is Italian and there were basil plants in the backyard that seem to have survived the heat. The dogs were friendly and Mickey in particular accompanied us on our walks to the beach. Emanuela, your house was pretty close to what I had in mind when I was looking for a beach vacation rental and the wonderful staff you have there made it the perfect vacation. Thank you for a wonderful stay. I am sure I will be thinking of your beautiful house by the beach during long cold winters here.

“Privacy,comfort,elegance. What more can you ask for?” Having stayed here three times in the last month says it all. Knut has done a magnificent job of creating such an idylic place to stay in a remarkably quiet but central location for both Galle and Unawatuna. It is more like staying in a comfortable home where everything you need is close to hand. Staff are friendly but professional. Always nearby. It is not a hotel so dont expect to be fawned over. Enjoy the freedom you would have at home but staff nearby to take away the strain. Bring your own food and drink, thats no problem. Order what ever you wish to be cooked for you at lunch or dinner from Dimi the onsite chef who will shop and prepare your meals or visit Galle or Unawatuna by Tuk Tuk to sample the local restaurants.King fisher highly recommended on Unawatuna beach. Talking of beach, its a few meters away. Just be careful of the currents as they are surprisingly strong. All three rooms have a strong design identity, depends on the space you require. The smallest is as comfortable as the the largest, amazingly well designed to get the maximum from a small space. Not for those of you who are not so good on your feet though, you would need the larger rooms. Al in al a great place to stay for those who appriciate design and comfort in a very relaxed style.