KAHANDA KANDA
The concept of an exotic hideaway can take many forms but trust an Englishman to carve one out of rural nothingness and turn it into one of the most enigmatic charmers in Sri Lanka today. From a holiday home for the sole pleasures of Mr George Cooper in the pre-war years, Kahanda Kandar was progressively transformed into the exclusive 10 villa luxury resort it is today. The serene Tamarind Suite decked out with blue and white porcelains, objets de arts made from buffalo horns and framed portraits of English aristocrats is one of our favourite. The Mango Suite nearby also shares a similar layout in pastel pink whereas every other suite differs distinctively in their ID flourishes. The Dubu Suite is the top villa of the establishment, a lordly abode raised within an antique Joglo House transplanted from Java replete with palm woven walls, open air bath and an infinity edge pool overlooking Koggala Lake. This is a retreat from the world built solely for sweet nothings. From our reluctance to stir from the luxurious 4 poster bed to hours lazing by the window alcove sipping tea and occasionally distracted by a pair of curious grey hornbill, Kahanda Kanda feels most like home in all its exotic elements that we've so far only inhabited in our longing dreams.
Service: + + +
Design: + + +
Overall Distinction: + + +
Recommendation Index: +++ A most charming property where you can imagine lavish movies being made. From S$575
GOURMET AND WELLNESS
The dining pavilion of Kahanda Kanda points towards the gorgeous expanse of the forest and river in the distance, which is the sole reason why we trudged out of bed each morning even when breakfast in bed presents such a tempting alternative. The kitchen uses fresh herbs and vegetables from its own garden and the cuisine here, although not the most imaginative, is highly palatable and definitely more preferable to the touristy fares of Galle Fort.