The Colony

Why The Colony?
The Colony offers relaxed boutique accommodation in the heart of Tangalle within easy reach of the many picturesque beaches of the region. Named not only in reflection of the island’s former colonial past, The Colony also represents the coming together of like-minded people seeking comfort, fabulous cuisine and free flowing conversation! A pretty 1920s British period bungalow characterised by black and white interiors, The Colony is set within a grassy palm-shaded garden overlooking the Indian Ocean, just off the main road leading into Tangalle. On its discovery the property was in a devastating condition, but the present owners extensively restored the house and garden retaining many original features such as pillars, archways, window and door frames whilst installing designer bathrooms, a modern kitchen and an infinity-edged salt-water swimming pool. The Colony houses four rooms, each of which are named after former colonies in Africa and Asia and decorated with art work, fabrics, wood and in colour schemes that are in some way reminiscent of their exotic titles. Three of the rooms and the kitchen open into the middle of the house where a series of open plan living and dining areas offer comfort in the form of squashy monochrome sofas or formality at the modern locally crafted Mara dining table. A few steps from here takes you to the fourth room and down to an ocean-view terrace with built in sofas from where you can comfortably admire the views, get lost in a book or aided by a Colony Arrack Sour let the conversation flow whilst waiting for your delicious dinner to be served. The Colony’s walking distance from Tangalle gives guests the opportunity to be absorbed by this southern fishing town whilst at the same time offering total privacy from within. While away your day swimming in the velveteen water of the pool, dry off whilst watching the fishing boats out at sea and observe the strange patterns of the birds in the trees as the crimson blush of sunset begins to emerge.
In the know The owners’ spacious land on pretty Seenimodera Beach, a five minute drive away, totally makes up for the sliver of sand beyond The Colony’s boundaries. Facilities are available and guests can enjoy peaceful surroundings and safe swimming in season. Although the smallest, bijou Zanzibar is our favourite room for its panoramic ocean views (especially from the bathroom) and entrance onto what feels like its own private terrace. The Colony is one of the only villas in and around Tangalle where rooms may be booked individually making it especially good value if you are lucky enough to have it to yourselves. Travel time from the airport is approximately 8 hours by car or 1 ½ hours by air. Address The Colony, Tangalle, Sri Lanka Click here to view location on Google Maps Web Link Location Recognition A member of SriLankaInStyle since 2008.