Bougainvillea Retreat overlooks an incredible natural amphitheatre, where the shimmering Victoria Lake and the lush emerald fairways of the par 73 Victoria Golf Resort come together beneath the vertiginous Knuckles Mountain Range. Wake up to exotic birdsong and views across Sri Lanka’s tropical hills. The setting is soothing and serene, and ideal for rest and relaxation, yet Kandy’s cultural attractions, including the sacred Temple of the Tooth, are less than an hour’s drive away.
This stunning Tuscan-style property, immersed within an acre of gloriously landscaped wildlife-rich gardens is home to seven comfortably appointed bedrooms. These are split between a four-bedroom Main House and three garden rooms. These all share a reservoir-facing infinity swimming pool, an open plan living and dining space that spills onto a convivial veranda, a library and a garden spa with Jacuzzi, steam bath and daily yoga sessions.
This is very much an engaging home from home where large gatherings of friends and intergenerational groups can expect subtle luxuries, wholesome home-cooked food and highly personalised service amidst a remarkable sanctuary of peace and calm. Golfers will delight in the Donald Steel-designed 18-hole course, yet the locality offers so much more; guided hikes and walks, lake kayaking, bountiful nature and off the beaten track cultural sights.
The villa is also well connected as the seaplane from Colombo lands on Victoria Lake while seasonal flights (November to April) connect Victoria with southern beaches .
Key facts
- The property sleeps 14 adults and up to 6 children
- Rollaway beds, cots and high chairs are available
- Large freeform pool & manicured tropical garden
- Fully staffed with a chef, manager and housekeeping team
- Nutritious and flavourful daily changing menus cater to all dietary needs
- Spa with massages and yoga, Jacuzzi and steam bath
- Average climate of 27 degrees for most of the year
Experiences
- Play a round of golf at the scenic par 73, 6,399-yard championship Victoria Golf Course (caddies, ball spotters and golf buggies are available)
- Order a picnic and explore the Knuckles or Hantane mountain ranges
- Book a relaxing massage, yoga or meditation class, or relax in the jacuzzi
- Spot over 100 bird species on an early morning nature walk
- Sign up for a Sri Lankan cookery class, or a children’s cookery class
- Go canoeing on the lake or borrow bicycles to use on local trails
- Learn about Sri Lankan coffee production on a tour to a local plantation
- Take a morning guided hike to Bambaragala Rock (ancient monastery with ancient cave temple, reclining Buddha and 360-degree summit view)
- Visit the Samadhi Centre’s waterfalls swim in the rockpool and enjoy a guided tour to see spices and organically grown veggies, followed by a traditionally cooked Sri Lankan lunch
More Information
- The hotel overlooks the Victoria Reservoir and golf course
- The Victoria Golf Resort is 25km east of Kandy
- The air taxi lands at Polgolla Lake, 19km west of the resort
- Distance to Colombo is 140km
- Distance to the Bandaranaike International Airport is 125km