Villa Abiman

Villa Abiman is new but has long been in our dreams. We wanted to build a house that was designed for where it is, using materials that will weather a seafront setting, using the sea and its breeze to create a cool and airy home, using the sun to make electricity, and using architecture to create comfortable, shady spaces for tropical indoor and especially outdoor living, maximising the sounds and sights of living by the ocean. We also, as much as possible, wanted to use locally sourced materials, design and skills, in building and furnishing. The beautiful wooden columns, doors, windows and fret work are reclaimed and renovated, or made new to match from reclaimed wood. The furniture has been made or renovated here in Sri Lanka by skilled carpenters and furniture makers. The roof tiles are also old, each one having been cleaned before laying. A lot of people have put huge amounts of time and effort into detailed work, for which we are very grateful. Many of the furnishings are Sri Lanka made, and some of the textiles are printed by us at home. developing the villa. Planting a kitchen garden and growing fruits and spices is an ongoing project.

Villa Abiman is a four-bedroom, beachfront villa overlooking the Indian Ocean. It sits on a 1-acre plot of beach front land on a quiet stretch of Sri Lankas southern coastline. The house is elevated, with gardens front and back and views of the ocean through palm tree tops. The infinity pool is 1.5 metres deep and has shallow areas and a jacuzzi, perfect for lounging in. The poolside terrace is furnished with sun loungers, a sofa and chairs. Palm trees provide shady spaces. There is direct access to the beach through our garden gate. The sandy beach is wide and long and is perfect for walks. Inside is a large living room with an open plan kitchen and bar. It’s cosy lounge is ideal for rainy days. It has a sofa, chairs, and a large cabinet full of books, games and puzzles. Our cooks will provide you with breakfast which is included in the villa rental rate. If you wish, you can also arrange to have your other meals and snacks prepared. Our staff will talk to you at breakfast and you can discuss what you would like to eat and when. We will only charge you the cost of ingredients and a small cooking fee.

The beach by the house is very quiet and ideal for long beach walks. If you want a change of scene from your own private beach, Hiriketiya (10 minutes away) is a great place to surf, for beginners (rentals and lessons are available) as well as experienced surfers. Going 10 minutes in the other direction brings you to Tallalla another of Sri Lankas best beaches. One of the resorts close to the Villa has a Padi dive centre. There are several temples in the vicinity that are worth visiting. For those interested in wildlife, Whale watching in Mirissa (45 minutes away) is not to be missed. Bundala national park (1.5 hours away) is great for bird watching and if you want the chance to spot a leopard you should head to Yala National Park (2.5 hours away). The historical city of Galle (1 hour), dating back to the Dutch colonial, makes for a nice day trip