We found Kurulla Villa to be a very tranquil and convenient base to explore the surrounding beaches and fort of Galle, since its excellent out-of-the-way location is still so close to both. It is a great property for families, offering uncluttered spaces and plenty of privacy. The house is surrounded by a large garden which is mainly flat and laid to lawn, making it ideal for children of all ages to tear about in. The garden is enhanced by a wonderful 22m pool (great for exercising) with a wide, sociable, semi-circular, shelved entrance ideal for lounging or sitting half in or half out of the water. This section of the pool is also quite shallow, making it even more suitable for children.

The house boasts a scattering of antique furniture from both Sri Lanka and abroad, however, since there are only a few paintings and pictures on the walls, the overall effect is quite minimal, a feeling highlighted even more as a result of the ceilings being so high. Whilst there is a small selection of CDs and pool toys, there are no DVDs or board games and only a few books, so you might want to bring some of these with you.

The staff of three keeps the house in order and housekeeper Chandana stays in the staff quarters at night. The cook prepares meals from a basic priced menu, although you can also discuss other simple options with him, which Chandana will then price up for you. Guests also have the option of self-catering or, since there are so many good restaurants within such a short distance, eating out in either Unawatuna or Galle.

This is a really lovely little hideaway and we cherished the short time we spent here. Few places so close to the beach are more peaceful and private than The Petals.  Although the house itself is fairly compact, it has a big tropical garden and contains all the basics for a relaxing holiday, including a fabulous pool.  It would be ideal for two couples (bearing in mind that one bedroom is a little smaller than the other) or a family of four; the terrace living space is generous, and you can always escape to the hammocks at the bottom of the garden if you need a little peace and quiet: this lovely spot beyond the pool feels far removed from the house.  The two members of staff are both very polite though speak limited English which can be a bit of a struggle at times although one is learning so over time this won't be an issue.  Service is unfussy and relaxed (more home-style than hotel-polished), and the staff left us to our own devices much of the time but were never far away if we needed something (there’s a small staff house close to the gateway where they stay).  The kitchen is well-equipped and the house comes with a CD player, iPod dock and WiFi internet connection.  There isn’t much to divert you from reading and relaxing as there’s no TV so we’d suggest bringing a laptop and a selection of DVDs with you if you fancy watching a few films.