VILLA ROSA, Kandy, Sri Lanka, 2019.12.10

Day 6 (1of 3).

“Steeply up the hill” was what many tuk tuk drivers referred to when they heard us mentioning the name of our guesthouse.  Every time we head back or out of Villa Rosa would be an exciting uphill or downhill tuk tuk journey.  High above Mahaweli River, Villa Rosa was more than a tranquil retreat of several spotless rooms with amazing views of the river valley.   Sitting on our private terrace looking over the river valley in search of returning flying foxes in early morning, having a fine Sri Lankan dinner at the outdoor patio in a breezy evening, resting in the airy bedroom surrounded by traditional wood furniture, these pleasant moments would live long in our memories.

Greeted by friendly staff and three dogs, we were glad to arrive at the entrance foyer of Villa Rosa after the car journey from Dambulla.

Flanked both sides by guestrooms, the entrance foyer, upper living room, and the courtyard bisects the complex of Villa Rosa.

Accessed from a covered veranda, our room was situated at a corner on the upper level.

At the upper living room, we spent a short period of time flipping through an architecture book on Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most famous architects in Sri Lanka.

Our room was spacious and spotless.  The ambience was relaxing and the river views from the terrace was amazing.

Even the bathroom revealed a tropical sense.

Sitting at the terrace to enjoy the river scenery was a delightful morning activity.

After heavy rain at night, a rainbow emerged for a short period of time in the second morning during our stay.

The 335km long Mahaweli River is the longest river in Sri Lanka.  It passes by the valley right below Villa Rosa.

The courtyard offered views to the river valley and the dense forest beyond.

In the courtyard, small lily ponds and sculptures are put together in perfect harmony.

The courtyard is a well tended garden for all guests to enjoy.

Another classical sculpture somehow goes well with the surrounding tropical vegetation.

Despite their size, the dogs were pretty friendly.  The staff was helpful too.  We were especially thankful that they were able to get us two reserved train tickets for from Kandy to Ella, something that had been sold out online 1.5 month prior to our arrival in the country.

One of the dogs has its own resting mat in the foyer.

The dogs play together every morning.

We had two breakfast and one dinner at the patio facing the river valley.  Fruits were always served during breakfast in Sri Lanka.

For dinner, we had local prawns as one of the main dishes.

And tuna steaks for the other main dish.

Fine details at the veranda reveal some lovely touches from the owner.  Staying at Villa Rosa for two nights was truly a remarkable experience.