Kahanda Kanda
Near Galle, Sri Lanka
Totally indulgent hideaway hotel with sweeping views over a tea estate and lake, just 15 minutes from the beach
Perched on a ridge overlooking Koggala Lake and surrounded by 12
acres of a working tea estate, Kahanda Kanda is a small, luxurious
and totally indulgent retreat. From the moment you're welcomed with
a refreshing fruit drink, a chilled hand towel and a broad smile,
you feel any stress start to melt away.
The amazing views are on display at every turn - behind the
shimmering infinity pool, mirrored in the lily-strewn ponds around
the open-sided living and dining pavilions, or from your very
private
suite
(there are only 8). Even the 80m saffron wall which juts across the
property has windows judiciously cut out to frame glimpses of the
estate, the verdant jungle and the lake in the distance. The
exotic-chic interiors combine polished concrete floors and a quirky
mix of Asian antiques and contemporary Sri Lankan furnishings
which, together with the impeccably friendly service, make Kahanda
Kanda a thoroughly sophisticated and romantic place that you'll
find hard to leave.
Reviewed by Laila Ram
Last updated 27 April 2012
Highs
- Stylish and soothing design both inside and out
- You'll find utter peace and tranquility
- Resident owner George Cooper and his staff make you feel totally at home
- Stunning gardens, filled with colourful birdlife (including peacocks and parakeets)
- Have we mentioned the breathtaking views?
Lows
- Mozzies can be a real problem here - stock up on repellent before you arrive
- It's a (bumpy) drive to get anywhere - the hotel can arrange for a tuk-tuk to take you to Galle and its beaches, or a car and driver for places further afield
- We've heard mixed reports about the quality of the massages on offer
