Boundary House Villa, Yatagala, Galle

This idyllic family villa, located in amongst paddy fields in Galle’s rural hinterland, sleeps up to eight. Seemingly marooned on an island encircled by swaying rice fields – which change from lime green to golden, depending on the season – this four-bedroom villa is ensconced within a mature garden filled with wild residents including kingfishers, monitor lizards, mongoose and chirruping squirrels. The setting is serene and authentic – you aren’t far from the village of Yatagala, home to an ancient Buddhist temple – yet beautiful southern beaches and Galle’s striking 17th century fort are less than 10 minutes’ drive away.

The villa comprises two buildings, each home to a pair of double and twin suites with private bathrooms. In the larger main pavilion, you also have a central dining area, the kitchen and air-conditioned media room, as well as a convivial veranda for lounging and soaking in the tropical garden views. In the garden is a lovely swimming pool which peeps beyond palms and blushing hibiscus bushes to the working paddy fields beyond. There’s also a secluded swing chair in the garden and a timber-frame shala for private yoga or fitness sessions.

Those staying here are looked after by a very welcoming team of staff, including a standout cook and an efficient management team on call 24/7. The villa works really well for one or two families travelling together, or even for smaller intergenerational groups as there is plenty of space to spread out. Tuk tuks (and vans) can easily be arranged to take guests to local beaches, into Galle Fort (for shopping and dining) and to and from Colombo’s international airport.