Lanka Lodge feels well off the beaten track (even though the popular beaches of Weligama and Mirissa are only a five to ten minute drive away) so it's perfect if you're looking for somewhere to flop and do little more than read and relax. The villa's peaceful location, immersed within

a coastal fishing village, provides a very authentic setting, and privacy is assured courtesy of the high walls enveloping the property's extensive tropical garden.

We felt that the set up at Lanka Lodge was very much suited to families (for instance, only one room comes with an ensuite bathroom). Kids will love the garden and the waterfall in the pool while parents can sit back and watch them from the front veranda. The house has WiFi and a stereo but no TV or DVD player, however there is a cabinet full of books both in English and German (the owners are from Germany).

Whilst the villa is full of character, facilities are fairly simple and the main kitchen is a little inconveniently situated (for self-caterers) in what feels like the staff area. The villa cook is most confident serving up Sri Lankan food; however he can prepare a number of grilled seafood and fish dishes too. Service is friendly and laid-back rather than polished and although the staff speak satisfactory English, their German is even better!

We found the design of the house to be utterly unique, quirky and cool. Whilst it feels very sociable, it also offers plenty of private spots that maximise the views. Photos, letters and prints bring out its fun personality whilst the elegant colonial furnishings, some of their colours

faded, sophisticate the property and give it a 1930's feel. We found the garden to be a delight, its meandering pathways through the mature tropical foliage managing to make the island feel larger than it is whilst hiding many secluded spots perfect for soaking up the views, enjoying the island's tranquillity or simply recording the stunning panoramas and gentle ambiance in paintings and books. Artists and writers will be particularly drawn to Taprobane; the American writer Paul Bowles wrote the Spider House here. The infinity pool is a great place to watch the fishermen as they take to the sea or return heavily laden with their catch, whilst the seemingly endless number of scenic dining locations makes the most of the island from sunrise to sunset. Families, groups or friends, honeymooners and decadent couples will adore Taprobane's peace and privacy and whilst older children will love its Adventure Island appeal, we think its suitability for younger kids is less so as they would need a lot of supervision. The sea crossing and number of steps on the island also might prove difficult for the elderly. The staff of seven includes a cook, a villa manager, three houseboys who have their own quarters and two security guards so guests are not only very well looked after but their privacy from the outside world is also guaranteed. Sunset drinks are served promptly on the verandah followed by meals that favour the fresh seafood of which Weligama is so renowned. Food is by a grocery system so meal choices should be discussed with the chef every morning so that the staff can do the shopping daily and keep an account of money spent. The staff will assist in organising transport and recommending sights for guests brave enough to leave the tranquillity of the island.