Luxury boutique property The Divine Villa recently opened its doors welcoming both local and international tourists. A passion project of French travel enthusiasts Christophe and Diane Chambre, the villa epitomises the island vibe with sprawling spaces and local design elements, tastefully blurring the lines between the indoors and the outdoors. The property comprises five luxury villa-style suites, an Ambalama style restaurant & bar, a private fitness pavilion, spa & wellness pavilion, meditation & relaxation area, with a plethora of experiential offerings including unique tea-plucking experience, Sri Lankan cooking experience, cycling, and bike rentals.

The expansive Villa is located in a 200 perch property located in Heenatigala, Galle, and is enveloped by a dense paddy field and tea plantation. The cascading design and feature interiors of this sustainably built property come from the mastery of Sri Lankan Architect Manjula Kalhara De Silva, and Engineer Mahesh Nandana, inspired by property Co-Founder, Diane Chambre. A characteristic seen in many Bawa properties, the Villa’s architectural design and landscaping work harmoniously with its natural shape and form. The designs follow a minimalistic plan with manipulation of cubic forms, rustic materials, and marriage of the natural topography of the verdant green landscape with open indoor spaces. The property is rooted in Sri Lankan-styled architecture, whilst being inspired by French-living.

Pictured: Christophe and Diane Chambre

"The Rs. 200 million property was created to cater to the modern, environmentally conscious traveller and promises an escape that brings to life the essence of paradise, serenity, and a truly tropical experience” shared Christophe Chambre, Co-Founder of Divine Villa. “Whilst the world continues to be ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, the facts remain that the Travel & Tourism industry will once again boom and with it will Sri Lanka's popularity as a tourist destination". Speaking of their love affair with this island nation, Co-Founder of the Property Diane Chambre stated, “In 2013 after numerous holidays around the world, we visited Sri Lanka for the first time and fell in love with the beauty of this paradise nation and its unique island-hospitality Sri Lanka continues to be the wonder of Asia and we are confident that with the influx of tourists, with the subsequent ease of travel restrictions internationally that Sri Lanka's hospitality industry will once again gain traction”.

The Villa is perfect for those seeking R&R (rest and rejuvenation), as the well-outlined space sets the tone for what will undoubtedly be a relaxing vacation replete with the opportunity for guests to enjoy a plethora of unforgettable local experiences. Located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, guests will wake up to gentle birdsong, fresh air and views of the paddy fields, garden or sea. The 5 bedrooms - Infinity, Bawa, Lanka, Garden & Cosy - are beautifully designed to be spaces that encapsulate tranquility. Uncluttered and large (even Cosy, the smallest room of the lot is quite spacious), the rooms all comprise all the required amenities and comforts. Depending on the room, the double sliding glass doors open out to the lush, landscaped garden and/or the balcony, welcoming plenty of natural light that gracefully drapes the room. Like the rooms, the ensuite bathrooms are also commodious and designed with the guests’ convenience in mind.

For guests looking to while away the time with in-house activities, the Villa features a snooker table, many board games, a good selection of books as well as a Sat Tv & DVD Player. The property provides guests with access to local attractions and immerses them in a uniquely Sri Lanka experience from mask making, lace making, lacquer work. In addition, the property provides a boost to the local economy with all food items sourced locally and the provision of jobs, and suppliers for locals from the nearby village. Considering the Villa's prime location, they will also arrange curated excursions to Unawatuna and Galle where guests can enjoy surfing, diving and snorkelling, including visits to places of religious and cultural interests.

In a growing segment of boutique properties in the country, The Divine Villa looks to carve its place thanks to its homely, but luxurious property that will appeal to anyone seeking a relaxing holiday, as well as adventure seekers, considering its central location. The property comes with a private chef, villa attendants, technicians, and security, who ensure that the guests are well taken care of and have an enjoyable vacation.

Pics Kushan Pathiraja