This Sri Lankan Beachside Retreat Is Going To Be Your Next R&R Destination

Tanamera is a charming private villa on the southern end of Sri Lanka is a slice of R&R heaven. Nestled in the Talpe region of the island, the area has undergone a complete redevelopment after the devastating 2004 tsunami, and many luxury outfits now dot its coastline. Tanamera is special in the sense that it is run as a private residence, complete with its own staff and chef to take care of your every want and need. It is a study in relaxed luxury with every design element and furnishing handpicked to make you sink in and drift into blissful pleasure. Oh, and the best part? It's less than three hours away from Singapore by plane.

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Accomodation

Situated on a sprawling, beachfront property, Tanamera is built to accommodate small groups of up to six guests only, giving its residents the exclusive use of all facilities on hand. The cavernous living room and two bedrooms face a majestic view of the ocean, and the roaring crash of the waves are a soothing lull that only makes you want to sit and enjoy a cup of tea with a good book. A stone's throw away from the main house is the pool, where guests can lounge on deck chairs under the shade of cashew trees, or take a dip in the refreshing cool water—a welcome relief from the summer heat of Sri Lankan afternoons.

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Wow factor

Taking inspiration from traditional Sri Lankan architecture, the villa is elegantly appointed with all the sumptuousness of a welcoming home. It boasts a gorgeous veranda that this writer spent many afternoons writing stories and catching up on the latest shows on Netflix, all with refreshing glasses of lemon soda thoughtfully provided by the attentive staff. The chic decor also reflects "private residence" ethos of Tanamera: Kitschy knick-knacks surround plush sofas, which invite communal gatherings and discussions in the evening as a gentle breeze blows in from the Indian Ocean. If you're feeling adventurous, the pristine beach is also great for long, contemplative walks and to take in the scenery of the ever-changing ocean.

Food and drink

When you're in Sri Lanka, you can definitely expect to be blown away by the cuisine. Think: A variety of curries, chutneys and condiments; fresh seafood just hauled from the ocean; or simply comforting favourites such as pasta dishes. The residence has a private chef on hand to whip up local delights such as chicken briyani and crispy hoppers, bringing the brilliantly complex spices of the country onto plate for an epicurean experience of epic proportions. Otherwise, you can also head over to WHY House, Tanamera's sister property for cocktails, followed by a meal of traditional Sri Lankan fare.

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What to do

One of the highlights of staying at Tanamera is its proximity to the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World heritage site with over 400 years of history. You can arrange a day tour with the property's extremely knowledgeable concierge, and you can spend the afternoon walking the coral-reinforced walls of the ancient fort, shopping for exquisitely made trinkets and clothes along Pedlar Street, or heading to one of the many jewellery shops to pick up some gems (Sri Lanka is known for its sapphires, after all). Take in the sights of the quaint old fort, which is still home to the area's municipal courts, and has several religious sites of interest, including the Groote Kerk or Dutch Reformed Church, which was completed in 1755.

Book it

Tanamera is available for private bookings only, for a minimum of three nights.