Richards Cabanas

The pool area, with its shade and beanbags, was a welcome spot to relax. The rooms were nice, though quite basic, and the whole place is a small, sheltered oasis away from the busy local town. We didn't eat there, but lots of guests went to the nearby restaurant in the grounds, which looked like a fun meal. It makes sense for one night on a Yala safari trip, though there's not much else to see or do.

The staff work incredibly hard. We heard some of them get up at 4 a.m. to make safari lunches, and felt for them. I told the manager we'd rather have the lunches made the night before and put them in the fridge, so the staff could sleep three hours longer. He said they needed to be fresh, though I hope guests would prefer the staff to get that extra rest. We had a lovely two-night stay at Richard’s Cabanas. The room was spacious and very clean, and the pool and dining area, about 50 metres down the road, was nicely set up for relaxing. The check-in and food arrangements were a bit confusing. At first we were told a BBQ was available, but when I asked again a couple of hours later, it turned out there was no BBQ. It may have been a simple mistake, but I don't think we'd have been told if I hadn't asked.

The staff were just lovely, always glad to help or have a chat, and they even lent us bicycles for free to explore. Breakfast was included and was one of the best we've had. They also made my birthday feel special: they ordered a cake and insisted on paying for it themselves, one of the kindest things I've experienced. The garden areas were clearly cared for, with a pool, hammocks and beanbags. Our room was large, spotless, and one of the nicest I've stayed in, with everything we needed, plus tea, coffee and water restocked each day. The beds were really comfortable too. Please stay here, I can't recommend it enough!

They arranged our safari, and we were fed, watered and guided through a fantastic day. The food at The Grill was amazing. Amila and his team were thoughtful and looked after every need, with warm hospitality throughout. Such a lovely hidden gem, a little piece of Sri Lankan paradise. Thanks, Amila, we can't wait to return next year! X