Viceroy House

Introduction

Set amidst a sprawling rubber and pineapple plantation in Pasyala, Viceroy House is an enchanting rural retreat just an hour from Colombo’s international airport. The property, which dates back to the late 1930s, was originally the family home a British High Commissioner and his wife. Although Viceroy House is now a boutique hotel, the current owners are determined that it should still feel like a home away from home – the building’s original architecture has been maintained, and guests are encouraged to come together and share their travel stories with a sundowner on the veranda each evening. With its beautiful design, peaceful surroundings and convenient location, Viceroy House is ideal as a restful first or last stop for a holiday in Sri Lanka.

Accommodation

The Viceroy House consists of a main house, separate cottage and annex. All suites and rooms are furnished in a British colonial style with dark wood and white walls, an abundance of ceiling fans, Emmanuelle-style rattan armchairs and antique fixtures, yet are also lifted by quirky tropical prints and ornaments that echo the family’s bohemian nature. Beds are vast and canopied with luxurious bed linen whilst the ensuite bathrooms boast high-quality showers and / or bathtubs. Other in-room facilities include a wardrobe, tea-coffee making facilities and WiFi. The traditional architectural style of the walawwa ensures natural ventilation and removes the need for A/C, however a shared A/C system runs throughout the property helping to keep rooms cool.

Walawwa bedrooms: These two double rooms are located on the ground floor of the main house. Each room covers an area of about 300 sq ft and has an elevated private terrace. The ensuite bathrooms are equipped with a w/c, washbasin and shower.

Walawaa suites: Situated on the first floor of the main house, these two suites have a private sitting area and terrace overlooking the garden and plantation as well as a grand four-poster bed with mosquito net. These suites are large enough to accommodate an extra bed if necessary. The ensuite bathroom is equipped with twin sinks, w/c and freestanding bath tub.

The Viceroy Suite: The luxurious Viceroy Suite is also located on the first floor of the main house and boasts a bedroom, separate lounge, private balcony and ensuite bathroom adorned with marble accents and a large bathtub. This suite has lavish décor and beautiful views of the tropical garden and adjoining plantation.

Cottage 43: Set apart from the main house, this cosy cottage is an enchanting retreat for couples. The cottage consists of a large bedroom with canopied four-poster bed, bathroom with shower and bathtub, living area with its own small outdoor terrace and a plunge pool which affords beautiful views of the surrounding gardens.

The Pavilion: Also located away from the main house, The Pavlion is made up of two spacious ensuite bedrooms which are linked through a common living space, making it ideal for families with children. However, if booked separately the two rooms remain utterly private. The Pavilion also has a small, well-equipped kitchen which can be used by guests or as a place for the in-house chef to whip up special meals.

Facilities

The gleaming 40ft pool is set in a peaceful part of the gardens and is lined with luxurious private cabanas which encourage long-term lounging. Others may seek relaxation in The Lookout, a large ambalama-style space perfect for yoga, meditation or quiet relaxation, or the spa which provides stunning views of the plantation, particularly at sunset. Electric bikes are provided so that guests can explore the seven-acre estate at leisure, and nature trails can be organised on request. Delicious Sri Lankan and international cuisine is served in the elegant dining area whilst the pool bar offers a range of drinks and light snacks throughout the day. Meals can also be served in the privacy of your own balcony or terrace.

Why We Like It

The ascent though groves of coconut and rubber trees prepares you for an excellent boutique option within an hour from the airport

Location

Set beside a beautiful rural plantation just one hour from Bandaranaike International Airport, this historic manor house is ideal for a peaceful first or last stop in Sri Lanka.