Max Wadiya offers an ideal retreat for beach lovers and those who prefer being away from the crowds, even though the many attractions of the region are still within an easy drive. Children will love the large garden and swimming pool, and easy access to the quiet beach and there 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!

If you’re looking for an unpretentious beach pad – think cosy over cushy – then Six Degrees North is the perfect package for a family or two, or for friends travelling together. Each of the five bedrooms is similarly sized, living space has been well laid out and every essential facility has been thought of, including WiFi internet reception that stretches nearly to the beach. Most of the 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 pool has been recently enlarged and incorporates the original plunge pool, great for kids.

The discreet service of the staff at Six Degrees North really complemented the relaxed, homely feel of the villa. Although some staff spoke only basic English, the manager will do anything to help you and make you feel at 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, especially our daily curries.

The pavilion to the front of the house has been added since our first visit, and the owner has recently installed a lounge and small massage area (with herbal steam bath) on its ground floor. The views from the living and dining area on the top floor are great, and this extra space is a real enhancement to the villa.  

NOTE: The owner has recently (2013) converted two buildings next door to Six Degrees North into holiday accommodation with three and four double bedrooms apiece – giving the capacity to sleep an additional 14 people. Access via an unfenced section close to the beach makes these new rooms (each of which is lovely and spacious, with ensuite bathrooms) a good overspill option – we particularly liked the rooms in the front building.

If you’re looking for an unpretentious beach pad – think cosy over cushy – then Six Degrees North is the perfect package for a family or two, or for friends travelling together. Each of the five bedrooms is similarly sized, living space has been well laid out and every essential facility has been thought of, including WiFi internet reception that stretches nearly to the beach. Most of the 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 pool has been recently enlarged and incorporates the original plunge pool, great for kids.

The discreet service of the staff at Six Degrees North really complemented the relaxed, homely feel of the villa. Although some staff spoke only basic English, the manager will do anything to help you and make you feel at 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, especially our daily curries.

The pavilion to the front of the house has been added since our first visit, and the owner has recently installed a lounge and small massage area (with herbal steam bath) on its ground floor. The views from the living and dining area on the top floor are great, and this extra space is a real enhancement to the villa.  

NOTE: The owner has recently (2013) converted two buildings next door to Six Degrees North into holiday accommodation with three and four double bedrooms apiece – giving the capacity to sleep an additional 14 people. Access via an unfenced section close to the beach makes these new rooms (each of which is lovely and spacious, with ensuite bathrooms) a good overspill option – we particularly liked the rooms in the front building.