Athulya Villas

We had a terrible stay and left at 1am. The beds were crawling with live bed bugs, and checking other rooms showed the same problem. The villa was dirty and run down, with stained sofas and towels and worn mattresses. We also found the dinner nearly inedible, after waiting ages for it. The manager, receptionist, cook, and concierge seemed to be the same person. The first impression had been good: a beautiful remote setting surrounded by greenery, and a superb colonial-style main house with an indoor forum. But the booking was confusing from the start. We were told our booking.com reservation had been cancelled and directed to a sister hotel that would cost almost double. Later we were told it was sorted, though it didn't feel convincing and left us feeling as if we might be getting scammed. Staff were unprofessional and unqualified, and the place was unhygienic and infested with bed bugs. We alerted them around midnight and asked for other rooms, but the problem was the same. Avoid it.

The setting was fabulous and the pool looked stunning. You can walk through the paddy fields to the lake, and they cook with their own spices and vegetables, making the food tasty and healthy. The young staff worked hard to meet our needs. Go in low season if you'd like especially personal service. A wonderful place to stay.

The pool was neglected and looked nothing like the photos. It was so dirty that the kids wouldn't get in. The property has a lot of potential, but higher management has completely let it down. Our three-week holiday in Sri Lanka was spoiled by this stay. When we got to the room, there were ants and poisonous caterpillars on the bed. I reported it, but heard nothing, so I walked to reception and told a staff member in person. Another hour passed without any response. I went back and spoke firmly to the onsite manager, after which four staff came to see the room. It took two and a half hours to get a response, though the manager did resolve the issue.

Waking up to birdsong and looking out at the mountains was the best part for me. The villas are secluded, and it feels like being in the jungle, with hardly any traffic or other noise. The views are hard to stop looking at. It's not perfect, but for the price it was more than I expected. The food was average, with plenty of choices, tasty dishes, and generous portions. Service was excellent. The manager was friendly, helpful, and always willing to hear any concerns and answer questions. I was really satisfied.