5 bedroom villa located in Ambalangoda, West Coast. Ideal for Beach in ten, Body and soul, Bring the relatives, Fair share for groups, Gastronomic delights, Kid friendly, Party pads, Perfect for weddings, Room with a view, Sensible for seniors.
Exquisite 5-suite villa in a 7-acre tropical garden overlooking the serene water of the Madhu Ganga river. Expansive bedrooms, luxurious facilities and a picturesque out-of-the-way location are what draw many to this beautifully designed fully serviced property located a few kilometres north of Ambalangoda and 3km from the beach.
The River House has some of the most spacious, antique-filled suites on the island.
The River House is certainly one of most stylish properties on the west coast, and offers some of the most spacious, antique-filled suites on the island. We felt particularly that the privacy afforded by the villa’s secluded location makes it an ideal choice for anyone 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.
Individual Scores:
Character/Charm:
9
Location:
8
Oustide Area:
9
Living Area:
8
Bedrooms:
9
Bathrooms:
8
Kitchen:
8
Facilities:
9
Staff:
9
Value:
8
Highlights
The villa’s stunningly designed suites are a delight and are perfectly complemented by an excellent staff team. Its exclusive location overlooks the serene Madhu Ganga river, which you can explore in the villa’s own private boat, and the lush garden – full of wildlife - is a treat to explore.
Surprises
The balcony of Menik suite might be visited by the odd off-course bat attracted by fruiting mango trees, but they avoid people and disappear as quickly as they arrive. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially after heavy rain – staff will provide coils if you are sitting on the veranda or terrace.
PROs
Huge suites, some with plunge pools
Tranquil lakeside setting
Private river boat rides
Efficient staff team
Gorgeous wildlife-filled gardens
CONs
Mosquitoes after rain
Suites split between two buildings
Pricey hotel-style food system
The Experience
Tucked onto a small wooded hill overlooking the tranquil Madhu Ganga river, The River House boasts a stunning location where privacy and seclusion for its guests are guaranteed. Whether simply enjoying the freedom of this seven-acre tropical garden, lazing on a planter’s chair overlooking the wonderful woodland swimming pool or decadently soaking in a jacuzzi plunge pool in complete privacy, guests can revel in the exclusivity that this property so warmly brings.
The sound of birdcall constantly rings in the air; tiny hummingbirds, bright blue kingfishers, twitching wagtails and huge sea eagles are frequently spotted in the garden whilst the bulging fruit trees are a constant draw for monkeys who lithely bounce between the branches, swooping in and out of view.
The lower part of the garden is scattered with coconut palms and borders upon the river. Lone fishermen often take to the water in the early morning and evenings, silently leaving v-shaped trails as they serenely pass by. Since the villa has its own boat (and kayaks), guests can also enjoy guided tours upriver, which provide opportunity to escape into the lush scenery and explore. Individuals within a group benefit from plenty of quiet spots in the garden or in their own generous living space, so this villa works very well for multi generational groups and large families.
The interior design of The River House is both stylish and stunning; earthy colour schemes complement the rich brown hues of the timber floors and beautiful assortment of antiques found in each of the five suites, the living, dining and lobby areas. Decorated alcoves and brightly painted walls catch your eye alongside gorgeous Indian bedspreads, patterned rugs and artwork. The excellent staff team personably greets guests on first name terms and run the villa with the efficiency of a five star hotel; guests can choose from a delicious menu of dishes to be enjoyed whenever and wherever they like; in the privacy of their suite, in the garden or on the elegant open-sided dining terrace!
Located just inland from Balapitiya and approximately six kilometres from Ambalangoda, The River House is situated beside the Madu Ganga River amidst lush tropical surroundings. Part of Balapitiya is on the coast, however as the village spreads inland from the main road, it turns rustic with a diversity of little cottages submerged in woodland becoming the norm; wooden shacks sit beside concrete homes that sit shoulder to shoulder with wattle and daub dwellings. Most of the villagers in this scenic area depend on either the Madhu Ganga River or the sea for their livelihood; the river – a vitally important coastal ecosystem that’s popular with visitors - provides a stunning backdrop to the village and is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna.
About Ambalangoda Ambalangoda is a busy provincial town famed for its mask making, southern style of dancing, antiques shops and, on its borders, its valuable moonstone mines. Undeveloped and relatively low-key, Ambalangoda's underexposure to tourism is an attraction for many looking for adventure, discovery and seclusion. Although the town itself is a little frantic, the tropical golden beaches that stretch south towards Uruwatta and north towards Balapitiya are tranquil and often deserted except for the fishermen that pull their nets and drag their colourful catamarans onto the beach. Here and there marine turtles heave themselves onto the sand to lay their eggs under cover of moonlight; their little babies, in due course, freeing themselves from the sand and scampering desperately out to sea. Inland, a Buddhist temple on a hilltop boasting beautiful panoramic views is home to South Asia's longest sleeping Buddha whilst the beautiful landscape of the Madhu Ganga River with its spice islands, temples and bird life is on the northern fringe of town close to Balapitiya. Boat trips atop this gentle waterway are a highlight of any holiday. Ambalangoda has a railway station and is well-facilitated with banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, a few restaurants and shops.
About West Coast The west coast of Sri Lanka is the island's original tourist hotspot, blessed with numerous picture-perfect gold sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. These wide beaches are fringed with hotels and restaurants often hidden below the tall, swaying palms. Sandy tracks lead to water-sport facilities, signs point towards intimate spa and Ayurveda centres whilst stone pathways take you to bijou shopping malls where a whole range of island memorabilia can be found. Local residents are friendly and never fail to offer their services; whether it is to take visitors bird watching inland, to a marine turtle hatchery such as Kosgoda, for a special temple tour, on a surfing safari in Hikkaduwa or on a scenic adventure up the Madhu Ganga River for a glimpse into Sri Lanka's lush interior. Between the bigger resort towns, the beaches (Balapitiya to Kosgoda for example) are more unspoilt and often deserted except for a handful of sarong-clad fishermen and their multi-coloured boats. But no beach is ever too far from the main road. Look up to the skies and you will see that the coconut palms in this western region, especially around Bentota, are often connected by tightropes used by toddy tappers - men who climb into the trees to obtain the sweet, milky sap of the coconut blossom that is distilled into the local alcoholic brew, arrack, which you must try at least once! Just a short distance inland the scenery bursts with different shades of green as paddy fields, coconut and rubber plantations, verdant hills, lush valleys, mangroves, lagoons and foliage-covered buildings represent an authentic Sri Lankan village scene.
The River House comprises an extensively renovated main house, set on a small wooded hill, with four luxurious suites, and a smaller building in the lower garden that houses an especially private fifth suite. Throughout the property, the stylish interiors feature authentic craftsmanship of wood, stone and polished cement which seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with antique splendour.
On the ground floor of the main house are the dining area, lobby and lounge, each of which runs into the next and is open sided to make the most of the breezes and views. The lounge is furnished with white sofas overlooking the river, and has a satellite TV and DVD player. A big cupboard at the far end of the lounge is filled with DVDs, books and board games.
The impressively large Gin suite opens onto the lounge, and contains a king-size bed, dining table for two, lounge and ensuite bathroom with shower and open-air jacuzzi plunge. Folding doors open onto a private garden overlooking the serenity of the river. To the rear of the main house are a further two double garden suites – Kala and Kirinda – which interconnect and are similarly luxurious in design although don’t have jacuzzis or river views.
On the first floor, magnificent Menik is a large suite arranged with a king-size bed, plenty of antique furniture and an ensuite bathroom with shower. Tall folding doors take you from the bedroom onto a deep balcony overlooking the river with dining table for four, sofas and a huge jacuzzi plunge pool.
Located a short walk down the hillside from the main house is the fifth suite, Walawe. This romantic suite has a double bed, a lounge area and a private veranda overlooking the river, which is ideal for private dining. Walawe’s ensuite bathroom leads to an enclosed courtyard with jacuzzi plunge. All suites come with ceiling fans, air conditioning and flat-screen LED TVs.
Across from the main house and encircled by woodland is the swimming pool. Sun beds are scattered around the terrace whilst a pavilion provides some shade. A small changing room with shower and toilet is conveniently located here.
Bedroom 1 (Menik)King7.8m x 6.6m Bedroom 2 (Walawe)Double8.5m x 4.9m Bedroom 3 (Gin)King8.5m x 6.7m Bedroom 4 (Kirinda)Double8.7m x 6.2m Bedroom 5 (Kala)Double9.8m x 4.8m
The River House has some of the most spacious, antique-filled suites on the island.
The River House is certainly one of most stylish properties on the west coast, and offers some of the most spacious, antique-filled suites on the island. We felt particularly that the privacy afforded by the villa’s secluded location makes it an ideal choice for anyone 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.
Individual Scores:
Character/Charm:
9
Location:
8
Outside Area:
9
Living Area:
8
Bedrooms:
9
Bathrooms:
8
Kitchen:
8
Facilities:
9
Staff:
9
Value:
8
Highlights
The villa’s stunningly designed suites are a delight and are perfectly complemented by an excellent staff team. Its exclusive location overlooks the serene Madhu Ganga river, which you can explore in the villa’s own private boat, and the lush garden – full of wildlife - is a treat to explore.
Surprises
The balcony of Menik suite might be visited by the odd off-course bat attracted by fruiting mango trees, but they avoid people and disappear as quickly as they arrive. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially after heavy rain – staff will provide coils if you are sitting on the veranda or terrace.
In order to have a booking confirmed you must make deposit payment as outlined in The Villa Guide Booking Terms and Conditions unless special conditions are indicated for the period you are booking. The standard deposits are:
-For rentals beginning more than 60 days after the date of your booking request - a deposit of 50% of the total rental amount is payable.
-For rentals beginning 60 days or less after the date of your booking request - the total rental amount is payable as a deposit.
Standard cancellation policy
In the event of cancellation, penalties as outlined in The Villa Guide Booking Terms and Conditions apply unless special conditions are indicated for the period you are booking.
It is strongly recommended that you purchase trip cancellation travel insurance.
Rates
Prices may change based on the time of your booking, arrival date and length of stay. For exact rates please click on the Check Availability button and enter your dates.
Whilst every effort is made to keep rates current. They are subject to change from time to time. If there is a rate change you will be informed before a booking is confirmed.
Confirmed booking rates will not change.
Rates apply to 10 adults and 2 children.
Security deposit
Upon arrival at the villa you may be required to pay a security deposit. The security deposit, if applicable, will be returned to you prior to departure less any extra charges or costs for accidental damage to the property.
Check in/out
Check in – 3.00pm, Check out - 10.00am
Late check outs up to 6.00pm may incur a half day charge, after 6.00pm a full day may be charged.
Every effort will be made to accommodate other check in/out times but will depend on availability.
The Villa Guide full Booking Terms and Conditions are available here.
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Internet (WiFi)
Swimming Pool (Private)
TV (Satellite/Cable) 
Air-con (Bedrooms)
Baby Cot
BBQ
Bed Linen
Board Games/Toys
Book Selection
Car Parking
Ceiling Fans
Coffee Machine
DVD Library
Equipped Kitchen
Fax (Extra)
Hairdryers (On Request)
Iron/Board
Jacuzzi
Laundry Service (Extra)
Microwave
Printer
Toiletries
Wine Fridge
