Halala Kanda, or Firefly Hill, was built in 1912 by Simonmeru Gunathilaka, the romantic son of a wealthy plantation estates owner from the north of Sri Lanka, to win the heart of his young local bride.

After many decades empty, the estate was re-discovered in 2010, overrun with jungle and near ruin. A labor of love, the new South Pacific owners, chose to work with local craftsmen, to restore the house back to its former opulent splendor, whilst adding their own eclectic design aesthetic.

Set in the lush plantation hills of Weligama, Halala Kanda once more offers a serene oasis to relax and recharge, yet is within easy reach of the pristine southern beaches and the historic charm of Galle

Halala Kanda’s generous spaces house a multitude of breezy, quiet corners to escape and recharge.

On first entering the house through its wide covered verandah, you walk into the palatial hallway lounge, with its towering 20m high barrel vault ceilings and a superb collection on Sri Lankan antique and contemporary collectables.

Off the hallway lounge, is the enchanting Room of Curiosities, which is an eclectic place to curl up with a favourite book or partake in drinks and a hand of cards.

And whether it’s the sumptuous conversation pit poolside at The Folly, or the antique chaises dotted around the internal courtyard verandah, quiet escapes are many and varied