Casa Heliconia

Introduction

Casa Heliconia is an exquisite holiday retreat set on a three-acre fruit and vegetable estate in the village of Kaleliya in Pasyala in Sri Lanka's north west. Casa Heliconia consists of just two chalets, a swimming pool pavilion and a lounge pavilion which are immersed in lush tropical gardens. The chalets and pavilions have verandas and courtyards under the shade of tall fruit trees, giant red Heliconia plants and Bird’s Nest ferns. Interiors are an eclectic blend of art and furniture from the east and the west: stone statues, silk sari drapes, glass chandeliers, gold-gilded fittings and planter’s chairs give a warm and exotic feel. Enter through the unassuming reception into this garden sanctuary of peace and calm. Relax by the poolside edged by paddy fields or learn to cook a traditional Sri Lankan meal in clay pots over a wood-fired hearth. By nightfall, take in the magical ambience of hurricane lamps and indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner in the gardens. Both chalets can be booked exclusively by one party or individually and can accommodate up to four guests. Children 12 years and above are welcome. Casa Heliconia is the sister property of the much-loved Kandy House, Last House in Tangalle, and Coco Tangalla.

Accommodation

There are two chalets – Temple Angkor and Pagoda Gold – situated well away from each other, providing much privacy. Both chalets are self-contained and consist of a bedroom and dining area and have a/c, overhead fans and iPod dock. Bedrooms are comfortably furnished with king-sized beds.

Temple Angkor: Situated in direct view of the adjoining Buddhist temple with its pristine white stupa, this chalet takes inspiration from the jungle temples of Cambodia. The bedroom opens on both ends to a veranda and the gardens beyond, whilst the dining area at the rear leads to a courtyard with a typical Sri Lankan village kitchen, where the chef will prepare authentic rice and curries in a clay pot over a wood fired hearth. There is an ensuite bathroom with a w/c and basin and an outdoor bathroom designed with copper fittings and h/w shower.

Pagoda Gold: Slightly smaller and located closer to the pool pavilion, this chalet consists of a bedroom that leads to a spacious open-sided terrace immersed in nature. The terrace has a dining table, planter’s chairs for relaxing and a bar area. An antique wooden horse sculpture from Jaffna takes pride of place in the terrace. The bathroom is set slightly away from the chalet and is designed with copper shower and basin fittings.

Facilities

Lounge at the Doll’s House – a separate pavilion for guests – which is equipped with comfortable sofas, a writing desk, computer, 42” flat screen TV, DVD player, a selection of movies, music system and Wi-Fi. The swimming pool pavilion, Pavilion Neapolitan, has a small infinity pool edged by paddy fields. Traditional Sri Lankan and western cuisine is served, prepared with village vegetables and other locally purchased produce, and guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages. A relaxing massage can be arranged with prior notice. The room rate includes breakfast and dinner.

Why We Like It

A richly coloured "jungle glam" property which offers a unique feel within range of the airport

Location

Casa Heliconia is in Pasyala which is just 45 minutes from Colombo’s international airport, en route to Kandy, making it an appealing first or last stop on many an itinerary.