We thought that Kadju House would be ideal for anyone looking for some serious R&R – especially as it comes with its own ayurvedic spa: an excellent addition, especially as the villa’s location is so tranquil. A locally-renowned Ayurvedic doctor can come and consult guests, and prescribe treatments based on his findings. Relaxing massages and herbal baths can also be arranged.

Not only is the location very intimate and private, the pool enchanting and the rooms cosy, but the staff really pamper you during your stay. The villa adapts itself well to many types of holiday; bliss on the beach, a secluded retreat, or a base from which to explore the local area. The conviviality of the lounge and bar makes Kadju House a great choice for a group of friends, and nature lovers will appreciate the visiting wildlife  – we saw kingfishers and humming birds, and heard peacocks - and many of the southern wildlife parks and reserves are within easy reach. The villa’s proximity to the beach makes it a good family villa too, though possibly better suited to older children as the steps and railings might be a worry for toddlers and young children (or, indeed, for some more elderly visitors). Although the suites are quite similar in style, the views and bathroom set up of each is unique; we loved the tropical bathroom design that merges inside with out – just be prepared for the occasional visiting frog!   

A staff of five effortlessly kept the house in order and offered us a high level of personalised service, carrying out our requests with ease. Staff were discreet though friendly, and their charm seemed to be a reflection of the instinctive hospitality and warmth that comes naturally to the people of this deep south region. On our most recent visit a new cook had joined the staff. Her Sri Lankan cuisine was great, and she is experienced in a number of western dishes as well. Many herbs and vegetables are grown in the villa’s increasingly large home garden, and where possible, used in your meals. Meals are charged to guests at cost price.

Although the house works very well for larger groups, it’s also suitable for couples or small families, as it can be rented as a two bedroom property for a special discounted rate. This makes it great value.

What an amazing villa! Everything from the magnificent setting to the food, the service and the comfort are second to none. Lansiya exudes character and personality through artistic touches and an intelligent design, whilst the staff’s warm and discreet nature was of just the right balance to ensure that we enjoyed ourselves but also felt very much at home.

What we really loved about this villa was its spaciousness and its privacy; you can enjoy the superb views without feeling hemmed in by walls as the gardens descend down the gently sloping hillside to the boulders beside the sea. We didn’t hear any traffic noise (what a relief!); instead there’s the unrelenting sound of the waves – especially loud and sensuous from the master suite. The sun sets almost directly in front of the property and with its generous lawn it would make an incredible location for a wedding or other special event.

We loved staying in the Lansiya Hill suite, the most private and exclusive bedroom. It’s a true couples’ hideaway but also perfect for parents looking to enjoy some luxurious private time whilst their older kids occupy Lansiya House (with its cosy TV Room on the ground floor). And we’d certainly encourage honeymooning couples to be decadent and book the whole property exclusively for themselves at just $100 on top of the Lansiya Hill rate. None of Lansiya’s bedrooms has air conditioning, but thanks to the breezy hillside location we didn’t miss it at all.

The food prepared by chef Sylvester is top quality; warm date pudding and butterscotch sauce served with afternoon tea was a treat as was our Japanese lunch feast! This passionate chef has 40 years experience in the food industry, learning his craft in Japan, India, Thailand and Europe. We loved that breakfast is different everyday and all bread, sauces, dips and accompaniments are freshly made. There are no menus; you discuss your daily requirements with Sylvester and all meals and soft drinks are included in the price.

Maya is so refreshing; it’s easy to wax lyrical about how great this property is. What we really loved though was its uniqueness; it’s a labour of love that’s been designed with so much thought it’s like no-where else in Sri Lanka. The quality of the craftsmanship really complements the owner’s striking designs, and great care taken over even the smallest of details. The result is a property that’s sophisticated, unpretentious and completely in its own world.

We thought Maya’s staff were excellent too. Most have quite a few years experience within the boutique hotel industry in Sri Lanka and it shows as they worked efficiently as a team, and anticipated our needs. The chef was one of the best we've encountered of any villa in Sri Lanka. His dishes – full of flavour and artfully presented – really added to our stay. Since ingredients can sometimes be tricky to find in Tangalle, he creates a daily menu based on what’s available, although you’re welcome to make suggestions.

People come to Maya not only because of the above, but also for true peace and quiet, which you really find here. Many rare birds have been spotted in the garden, and national parks such as Yala and Uda Walawe can be visited easily on day trips from here. There are very few restaurants less than 15 minutes’ drive away, and no decent shops or nightlife, so it really is a place to relax and unwind. It would be superb as a yoga retreat (yoga and tai chi instructors can come to the villa to carry out three classes a day for a minimum of five days, for a fee, and during the months of May, June, October and November special yoga packages offering daily classes, special meals, massages and daily excursions may be booked) and would also suit two families holidaying together as the two parts of the property each have their own living and dining areas. There's a cable TV and a DVD player, two CD players and iPod docks, WiFi throughout, and lots of pool toys plus cricket bats, croquet, badminton racquets and body boards to keep all ages amused.