Discover Serendipity Retreats -Where every property tells a unique story

27 September 2024 08:31 am Views - 22

The Cavern Lounge & View

32 Middle Street Poolside Dining

Palmyrah House Aerial 


BY THARAKA RANCHIGODA


Serendipity Retreats features six properties interspersed throughout Sri Lanka - making full use of the island’s varied subtropical climate, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. All six properties are year-round travel destinations. Each offering a unique story on luxury and comfort as well as, environmental and cultural conservation and uplifting local communities.

Lying between the main Northern and Southern Bolgoda lakes, Lilypod is only a short drive south of the capital city, making it the ideal getaway spot for families, groups and hosting special events. This tranquil home is built to flawlessly blend in with its surrounding environment; featuring expansive lake and garden views, a swimming pool and luxurious living spaces. Enjoy the day with a scenic boat ride on the Bolgoda lake, Sri Lanka’s largest lake, containing marshlands, mangrove forests and a diverse array of native flora and fauna.

Perched in the misty Hanthana Mountain range, Dendrobium House offers breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s Highlands. Thoughtfully designed in a contemporary colonial style with interiors by renowned architect Channa Daswatte, this luxurious house is an ideal starting point to explore part of the popular Pekoe Trail. A naturalist is available on site to guide you on your walks in and around the Dendrobium grounds, home to over 100 varieties of birds. The on-site farm offers guests an exquisite farm to table culinary experience, delighting guests with every meal, particularly the signature afternoon tea.

A property unlike any other, The Cavern is built into a cave within a high-elevation 50-acre forest in Agarapathana. Once an abandoned tea plantation, this former cloud forest is being carefully replanted with highland species. This ecosystemrestoration initiative was honoured by The Rolex Awards for Enterprise in 2000. Each guest contributes to the ongoing conservation activity by planting a tree during their stay. The property features rooms set into the cave with balconies, modern amenities, and stunning interiors. Unwind in the naturally heated spa pool and sauna, stroll around the estate, or contemplate the beautiful views of rolling hills from the shared spaces.

The only luxury hotel in Mannar, Palmyrah House is hidden amidst nature in the middle of Mannar island, a popular destination for birders, especially during the Flamingo migration season from November to March. Experience a magical 500 metre walk on the recently built boardwalk with idyllic views of the adjoining marshland; perfect for bird watching by day and stargazing by night. Explore surrounding sites and come home to indulgence, where the locally hired team will take care of all your needs with attention and care.

A classic home offering a genuine flavour of Sri Lanka’s culture and heritage, 32 Middle Street is enveloped within the vibrant Galle Fort; combining historic charm with modern luxuries. Take meandering walks through cobblestoned streets and rediscover the picturesque Galle heritage city, shop for the day’s freshest seafood and enjoy a delicious platter by the pool or unwind with a relaxing massage at a nearby spa. The location makes the home a perfect base to explore the golden South Coast beaches and chase mesmerising sunsets. Just over an hour’s drive south of Colombo, Villa Thuya is cosily nestled in the coastal town of Balapitiya. Featuring a captivating ocean backdrop, an outdoor pool with a natural rock formation and sweeping ocean views, this luxurious villa offers private access to a boulder beach. You can choose to have evening tea or drinks on the boulders and go for a dip after. For nature lovers and bird watchers, the property offers excursions on the bordering Madhu Ganga - the second largest wetland in the country, rich in biodiversity with over 100 bird species, numerous species of reptiles, mollusks and butterflies.

For those looking for a unique event venue, Dendrobium House in the hills and Lily Pod by the lake are ideal locations for weddings, special occasions and executive retreats. The team is on hand to help with planning or work alongside your chosen planner.

Serendipity Retreats invites guests to indulge,explore, experience and plan their perfect stay- whether with friends, family or a couples treat. Serendipity Retreats properties really have something for every type of traveller. Enjoy exclusive Local and Resident rates at all six properties, any time of the year. www.serendipityretreats.com