Perched above a rocky outcrop in the west coast village of Balapitiya, The Sandals offers sublime panoramas of the Indian Ocean. Modern in design, this stylish five-bedroom family house celebrates its surroundings – multiple sets of glass sliding doors generously usher in the sea views and allow for a free flow of space between interior and exterior areas, whilst a deep blue swimming pool sits at the highest point of a lush garden that tumbles down a gentle slope to a golden sandy beach beyond. Palm trees sway overhead, and hammocks and cushioned sunbeds are scattered around the lawn – there is also a circular double lounger which is a superb place to survey the sea at sunset. A garden gate provides direct access to a pretty stretch of boulder-strewn beach where you can swim in the shallows and watch for marine turtles bobbing their heads above the water just offshore. The interiors of this chic villa are serenely white and lend a Grecian aesthetic to this Sri Lankan setting, whilst terrazzo floors and high ceilings keep the generously-proportioned open-plan living and dining areas cool, along with the sliding doors which allow for a continuous flow of air throughout the house. The white-washed interiors feel beautifully calming whilst bright splashes of color, in the form of contemporary canvases, photographs, prints, rugs and cushions, bring the rooms to life. This is a cherished holiday home and facilities include a tune-filled iPod, a TV with satellite channels and a DVD player, plus shelves loaded with books, board games and DVDs. With five bedrooms across two floors, this is an excellent villa for extended families and groups of friends. There is a staff of two working at the villa and they discreetly ensure the house is kept clean and tidy, and keep you well fed. A little pantry with fridge, microwave and sink is handily located off the dining area should you need to mix yourself a drink, and you also have a full kitchen if you feel the unlikely urge to self-cater. The villa is booked on an exclusive basis only.