Ging Oya Lodge

A charming Sri Lankan family owns and runs this beautiful, peaceful hotel. It's set in lovely grounds beside the river, with free kayaks and bikes to use. We had great food and a fantastic room, especially that giant bed. I'd definitely recommend it to discerning travellers.

The service was brilliant, the accommodation was high quality, and they paid outstanding attention to detail. This was the best place we stayed in Sri Lanka.

If you live in a busy city and need quiet, this remote place is ideal for nature lovers. Even when fully booked, there's enough space across the grounds and the open communal buildings to get away from other guests. There are lots of shady spots, chairs, and a few loungers. Staff can also tell you about the tropical plants and how they're used locally. The grounds have curry plants and coconut, mango, cashew, lemon, and orange trees, though not all were fruiting in June. We had a fresh coconut that had just fallen from a tree, and they opened it right in front of us. You wouldn't get that kind of experience at a 50-room concrete hotel by the beach. There are about 12 one-room bungalows scattered around the site. Each has air conditioning, a ceiling fan, a fridge, a kettle, tea bags and coffee, mosquito curtains around the bed, and a covered veranda with chairs. The bathroom has a shower, sink, and regular toilet. Its roof only partly covers it, so you're still connected to nature. In June it's very warm inside and out. No pyjamas needed then, they'll stick to your skin at night. The bed sheets are changed every other day, even when it's sweltering. Three times a day, a local man climbs the coconut trees and cuts into the big flower to collect sap. They can ferment it or boil it down into a very sweet syrup they call honey. The place caters mainly to Western guests and tries to keep party lovers away so it stays calm. Bring mosquito repellent and something for bites. The hardest part was finding the entrance. Don't follow Google Maps for the last 200 metres. Follow Green Island hotel instead and look for the big new wooden gate shown in the photo. Once inside the compound, turn left at the little junction. Even our taxi driver struggled to find it, despite asking locals. We had a very special, wonderful time.

The river and mangroves made for a quiet, peaceful stay. The staff were helpful and friendly, the pool was superb, and a decent breakfast was included.