Villa Velmarie

10/10

I'm a female photographer who was on work in Sri Lanka, setting up my own tour, when I stayed at Ville Velmarie. At the time I was traveling alone (with drivers) and that particular night our accommodation plans fell through. At 7pm, I found myself at a dubious place with questionable stains on the bedding. Tired and upset, I left immediately and to cut along story short, after rejecting about 4 other places for their inflexibility, some fellow travelers in the vicinity asked me to come there. It was slightly out of my planned route but at 9:30pm and exhasted, I just didn't care anymore. I rang the manager Charith to ask for availability for me and the drivers . Not only was he totally hospitable but FLEXIBLE (something the other establishments weren't), his staff received us at 10 PM without a fuss and still managed to cook us a delicious home made rice and curry. I will forever be grateful for taking us in like that. The place was beautiful, clean, furnished in the traditional way that is full of character. And the TOWELS... oh Lordie the towels... were so soft and clean and WHITE (sorry, you could tell, I had my fair share of bad experiences on that trip - lol) I didn't actually appreciate how beautiful the outside was until the following morning. My friends weren't kidding. Every single room opened up to the cleanest pool and glorious garden, which was quite large in itself. I had been in Sri Lanka for about 1 &1/2 weeks by then but had not been in water! So I was in the pool before you knew it. Tea was served pool side and we had a yummy string hopper breakfast shortly afterwards. There's two things I regret: that I couldn't stay longer and that I didn't take many photos. For a photographer, the later is almost a sin! So if you are ever contemplating this hotel, don't, just go! You won't be disappointed. I hope that someday I can go back, perhaps on their yoga retreat as that sounds ideal. Thanks Charith and staff. I wouldn't hesitate recommending you and also including your establishment in my tour itinerary. For small businesses like me, it is also a perfect set up. Thanks, Chamilka