Apa Villas

Stylish and tranquil beachside retreat with a fabulous pool

Imagine arriving at a stunningly elegant villa, resplendent with tropical flower displays, and stepping out onto a airy terrace surrounded by palm trees to gaze out on the surf rolling into shore. A cool drink in hand, you breathe in the sweetness of the air, admire the vibrancy of the sunset and smile as a lone turtle, searching for somewhere to lay her eggs, pops her head out of the water.

This is Apa Villas: three fully-staffed colonial bungalows situated in a coconut grove on the beach at Thalpe on Sri Lanka's south west coast. Owned by Hans Hoefer, photographer, designer and founder of Insight Guides, they have been beautifully and sensitively decorated to blend in with their natural surroundings.

Rent a single suite, ideal for couples, or a single villa, perfect for families. Larger parties of up to 14 people can book all three together. Swim and snorkel in the Indian Ocean, enjoy delicious Sri Lankan food freshly prepared by the cook, visit Galle's old Dutch fort, stroll along the beach or just laze around the garden.

Highs

• The cool swimming pool stretches from the villas to the beach
• The interiors are stylish and soothing
• The location is secluded, yet only a few kilometres from Galle, Sri Lanka's most atmospheric historic town, and Unawatuna, for those in search of laid back beach bars and scuba-diving
• You can enjoy your own villa with the services of a small, deluxe hotel

Lows

• The beach in front of the villas is not ideal for swimming due to the strong undercurrents and sharp coral reef. However, wander 5 minutes along the shore and you'll discover calm clear waters, but watch out for sea urchins
• The villas are situated close together and share the pool, and guests sometimes have to walk across other villas' verandas to access communal areas, so don't expect total privacy; however, you may book the whole place for yourself at special rates
• There can be occasional traffic noise due to the nearby road