“Set in a manicured two-acre estate amidst paddy fields and jungle, the Old House is a restored 110 year old, five room villa in Dutch British style, with a new wing. The large guest rooms, with 25ft high ceilings, are set around the courtyard pool, in a happy combination of sensitive architecture and subtle interior design, comfortable and jungle chic, yet still welcoming. Many rooms have private courtyards. There are fans in the bedrooms, but no air-conditioning. The absence of a fan in the dining room is a total mystery. There is a huge, ultramarine blue pool.”

Written by  Lincoln Seligman

They say

“Maya is a one hundred and ten year old property situated in the small village of Aranwella close to the southern town of Tangalle. The old house has been completely restored retaining all the original features and a new wing added. Both properties fit seamlessly together blending the old with the new with a 20m pool in the courtyard between the two. Set amid 2 acres of lush gardens with huge trees as old as the house and teeming with bird life - the property is unique. At Maya you feel as though you are surrounded by a sea of paddy fields that have been there since the beginning of time. The villa has 5 suites with 25 ft ceilings and large bathrooms. There are 2 suites in the Old House and 3 suites in the New Wing with their own private courtyards.There is a charming verandah and dining area in the Old House and a stunning pavilion in the New Wing for lounging and dining. You can rent rooms in either villa, or rent the whole property. We have an excellent chef, and 4 staff headed by an experienced Manager who will look after you. Maya sits next to an old Buddhist temple and is an incredibly private place.”