Arriving through its homely gates, I was captivated by the interesting plethora of unique black and white pictures of some of the greatest global revolutionaries. Charmed into a retro mood, my attention was reluctantly drawn towards what looked like a large body of water. A river within the villa premises!!!
Words Dheena Sadik
Simply a 90 minute drive from the hustle and bustle of dynamic Colombo and you can indulge in the perfect getaway in the picturesque haven of Villa Red. This getaway welcomes its guests with a unique flavour by blending antiquity with myriad contemporary opulences. Embedded within the charming entourage of scenic beauty, the heart of this villa invites you with an invigorating aura augmented by its intricately designed aesthetic furniture complimented by beautifully simple comfortable plush sofas. A theme woven around revolution has been the inspiration behind the villa’s interior for owner Dian Gomes, himself a practitioner of anti-establishment principles. Images of various cultural revolutionaries adorn the villa’s walls; from the large painting of Mao Zedong to interesting portraits of Lenin and John Lennon, the living room sweeps a nostalgic ambiance. A remarkable collection of books are housed for guests to unravel the biographies of these legendary icons.
The living room extends into a spacious junction creatively designed as the dining room. A large dining table set for 12 diners is neatly embellished by cutlery and crockery coordinated with elegant tableware to suit the ambiance. Guests can choose from a large spectrum of delectable dishes to pamper their taste buds with delicious local and international cuisines. The chef ensures guests are satisfied, giving them the option of custom-made dishes as well. The kitchen is a fusion of a 1940’s retro style incorporating modern equipment for guests’ convenience. The friendly staff are one of the main reasons several guests revisit Villa Red as their warm hospitality is available around the clock.
Beyond the dining area resides the villa’s own swimming pool, perfect for a morning dip and afternoon swim with family and friends. The elegant well manicured lush garden in the vicinity is an enticing visual treat to be relished. A central threshold runs across the garden leading to the best surprise of all; caressed by the warm afternoon sun-rays, the pristine Bentara river graciously meditates in silence. Separating the garden from the river is a private wooden deck. This spot has been a popular magnet for sun-lovers who enjoy their morning coffees and family reunions across the panoramic aquatic view, sun-bathing on beach-beds facing the tranquil river.
The villa has four bedrooms, two placed symmetrically on either side of the dining area. They each have their own private entrance and offer necessary facilities, en-suite bathroom equipment with rain showers and aromatic bath amenities. The bedrooms follow four individual themes, each having specific features. The ‘Boxing Room’ displays large framed photos of the legend Mohammed Ali, together with the owner’s personal boxing paraphernalia. The ‘Beatles Room’ takes you through a sojourn into the Beatle-mania of the 1960’s while the ‘Liberation Room’ unfolds stories by the former Soviet Nation. Last but not least, the ‘Vietnam Room’ unravels interesting art from the era of the revolution.
The deluxe master bedroom is an independent luxurious suite strategically located to enjoy a spectacular view of the river. Being separate from the rest of the villa, it has the privilege to more privacy than the other bedrooms. Furnished with antique furniture, its timber-floored spacious setting truly spells out royalty, which is accentuated by classical framed photographs of Malcolm X, Dr Martin Luther King Junior and Mohammed Ali. Other facilities include a King-size four poster bed, private living area, a large flat screen TV with an array of DVDs to entertain guests. Having direct access to the private deck, guests can enjoy a breath-taking sunset in privacy. The Master Suite’s bathroom is abundantly spacious with ample room for his and her own washroom vanity, rain shower and modern bathroom amenities.
Added to the facilities within Villa Red, guests also have the benefit of enjoying several recreational outdoor activities during their stay. Water sports such as boat riding, kayaking, jet skiing and wind surfing are organised by the staff on request. The Bentota Beach, a stretch of sun-kissed golden sand sprinkled with palm trees is only a few metres away from the villa while Kalutara is only a 30 minute drive. The Lunuganga Estate, which is the famous country home of the renown Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa is also in the vicinity. Other adventures include turtle hatcheries, exploring Hikkaduwa and many more.
Having access to your own river space, enjoying delicious onsite meals while being teleported to a retro dimension, Villa Red is the perfect oasis for anyone seeking a relaxing getaway with optimal privacy with family and friends.
9A, L T P Manjushri Mawatha
Aluthgama
Tel: (+94 34) 227 1515
villaredsrilanka.com
[nggallery id=547]
