The Belgium artist-owners of this place were inspired by the safari lodges of Africa and they've done a sterling job of replicating the rustic-chic luxury. There are seven spacious cottages with filigree window carvings, beautiful four-posters and semi-open-plan bathrooms, plus a wonderful pool, birds and butterflies everywhere, and total and utter peace. It's the kind of place you only tell your best friends about.
Set three-course dinners (€11) prepared by the owner Leo are served to classical music in the open-sided dining room. The beach is a shady 1km walk or cycle away (bikes available) or you can paddle a kayak (free) down to the sea. To get here independently take a Chilaw bus to Kammala or a train from Negombo or Colombo to Bolawatta; either way it's then a 3km three-wheeler ride (Rs 200). The hotel organises airport drops for Rs 2000.
