are plenty of games and sports equipment to keep them amused here.

The bedrooms are a little unequal in that the two suites are more luxurious than the rooms in the original building, but we thought this layout might suit a couple of families well (putting the children in the main house and giving parents some peace and privacy in the new building). Max Wadiya would also be a great place for the extended family as the ground floor bedroom in the main house is ideal for less mobile relatives plus there are lots of opportunities – indoors and out – to find your own private space.

The staff are friendly and helpful, and looked after us with a lot of warmth. The villa is offered on a full-board basis, which makes it good value for money. There is an emphasis on fresh, home-style food. A western menu is typically offered for lunch, with Sri Lankan cuisine for dinner. Breakfast is a mix, whilst cake is always offered with afternoon tea. Max Wadiya is great place to savour authentic local dishes – you can even have a cookery lesson and take home recipes for everything you cook, plus a bag of spices to get you started!

seeking exclusivity away from (but close to) the beach. Whilst the architectural character and traditional craftsmanship of this restored property gives it a colonial feel, features such as recessed alcoves, clever use of paintwork and vibrant artwork indulge it with a more contemporary interior design. Luxuries such as TVs, DVD players, plunge pools, thick mattresses and gorgeous cotton sheets further complement and modernise the design.

We felt that the villa’s breathtaking location beside the river – one that can be fully explored – greatly enhances the property’s appeal. From our bedroom balcony and during walks along the many garden paths, we counted numerous colourful birds swooping between the trees, which makes this property a real treat not only for decadent couples and groups, but also for nature lovers and families. Children will adore having the run of the seven-acre garden and enjoy the scenic boat trips upriver, although parents might need to supervise them in some areas. It’s also useful for families to know that two extra beds can be added to any suite (at an additional cost). The Walawe suite is ideal for honeymooners or individuals within a group searching for a little extra privacy.

Whilst the staff are personable and warm, we found service at The River House to be as efficient as a top class hotel; we were called politely by our first names and discreetly attended to when we needed anything. Guests can dine whenever and wherever they like – the menu is filled with a delicious range of dishes that are beautifully presented and generously served.

every essential facility has been thought of, including WiFi internet reception that stretches nearly to the beach. Bedrooms come with twin beds pushed together to make kings (ideal for any group configuration) and certainly, with the soft pillowy king-size linen, felt more like one bed than two. Bathrooms with wonderfully hot showers are attached to each bedroom.    

The villa has an enclosed garden to the front that’s mainly laid to lawn though at the far end there’s a sandy strip designed for kids to build sandcastles and play safely within the confines of the property. A simple timber fence marks the boundary between the garden and Madampe Beach beyond. The villa’s small pool has a shaded section and is perfect for cooling off.

The discreet service of the staff at Six Degrees North really complemented the relaxed, homely feel of the villa. They were all incredibly hospitable and every request was handled with ease. You can choose to self-cater (there’s a barbecue in the garden for guest use too) or be catered for according to a priced menu. The Sri Lankan food prepared for us was delicious; we enjoyed a different selection of curries each day.

The living/dining pavilion to the front of the house has been added since our first visit, and the owner advised us that they plan to fit out a massage room on the ground floor. The views from the top floor are great, and this extra space is a real enhancement to the villa. A fourth bedroom has also been added on the ground floor (located to the rear of the house) where the staff kitchen used to be (this is now in a separate building discretely tucked to the side of the house). Note that the bathroom of the upstairs bedroom is not ensuite (although it is solely for use by the occupants of this room), but accessed across the landing.