It would be hard to top Nisala Villa in Sri Lanka - the villa, setting and view, as well as the staff are all amazing. We had debated whether to stay here or Amanwella, and we could not have been more pleased in selecting Nisala Villa!
Jill, the owner in Hong Kong and also the villa architect, was beyond helpful in planning our stay and her local insights were invaluable in finalizing our itinerary.
There are 4 villas on the property, with the placement and design ensuring privacy. The villas are located up a private winding road that adjoins private temple lands, beyond a gated entry manned by security. I just can't say enough about the villa itself. It is gorgeous, set up from the beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean. The view, sound of the surf and the ocean breezes soothe the soul. You can easily sleep 8-10 and never feel crowded. Each bedroom has its own bath and the living spaces, including outdoors are luxurious and spacious. It was just my husband and I traveling, and we are already plotting our return with close friends.
The staff is top notch. Jerome, the butler provided personalized service and ensured we were welcome and cared for. He confirmed all our local plans the evening before to ensure we were well cared for outside the villa as well. He was assisted by Tharonga who also ensured a fabulous stay, and who provided special touches along the way.
We enjoyed the best meals we had in Sri Lanka, courtesy of their fabulous cook Ramya. We had breakfast and dinners at the villa, where all you need to do is put in a menu request, with dinners having a nominal charge. We requested local cuisine and were not disappointed. I would return to Nisala Villa just to shadow Ramya in the kitchen - it was that good! I believe the housekeeper, Dharshani, also had a hand in our fine dining, while she also ensured the villa was immaculately kept.
Jill offered her car and driver during our stay at only the cost of gas. We have really appreciated Wasantha as a driver and felt safe in his hands amidst the craziness of Sri Lankan roads, from our pick up in Galle to our drop off in Colombo. Wasantha went out of his way on multiple occasions to ensure we were taken care of - even helping us shop for a hopper pan and ingredients. While we were thousands of miles from Seattle, we could not have been made to feel more at home. We stayed 3 nights and only wished we had more time here. Just go - you won't be disappointed and you won't want to leave.
