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OverviewThis newly-opened retreat sits in glorious lush grounds just beside the secluded crescent of Talalla Beach. Here calm turquoise seas meet golden sands on a beautiful stretch of coast; compelling sunsets and sunrises come as standard. This is the perfect place to get away from it all - without breaking the bank.The Australian owners have worked hard to create an informal hotel of elegant simplicity. The eight villas, which house four rooms each, are set in four acres of landscaped garden with a large sparkling pool. The emphasis is on stilling your mind, soothing your soul and invigorating your body; yoga, tai chi classes and guided meditations are some of the major draws. There are also 7- to 20-day courses, including yogalates and shadow yoga, as well as 5- to 12-day surfing adventures, and a spa which will keep non-participating partners more than happy. Outside the retreat are some of Sri Lankas best beaches, jungles and wildlife parks; also within striking distance are dozens of temples and the historic town of Galle.RestaurantsThe restaurant is in the gardens overlooking the pool towards the sea, and its menu changes regularly.Meals are fresh, simple and delicious: the fish is caught daily by local fishermen and the organic vegetables are often grown on the retreat. Laurie Rose has owned and run high quality restaurants in Australia for over 25 years, so in addition to delicious local food he has trained his chefs to create international dishes.AccommodationEight two-storey villas are set in landscaped gardens and each villa has four bedrooms, making 16 twins and 16 doubles. The doubles all have queen-size beds. All have mosquito nets. The rooms are spacious with open-sky marble bathrooms, and individual balconies or verandas. They have no a/c, but are cooled by natural sea breezes and ceiling fans. Instead of windows, there are low walls and open air.Bamboo blinds offering a degree of privacy, which will delight many, but which some will feel does not allow them to "retreat" quite as much as they would like.
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