Fleewinter

Talalla Retreat Gandara - slw006

Talalla Retreat sits metres from an undiscovered crescent cove near Gandara. The retreats main focus is relaxation, yoga and surfing.

32 Bedrooms, Sleeps 64

Pool - Yes
Restaurant - Yes
32 double beds
32 bathrooms
32 en-suite
Sea Views

Set in extensive grounds, eight two-storey villas each contain four spacious bedrooms with a distinct tropical character. On the top floor the rooms are open air, with large rattan blinds for privacy. On the ground floor the rooms have large French doors and side windows that when open provide an equally airy feel. All rooms are decorated in a stylish minimalist fashion, boasting generous open sky-marble bathroom and either a private balcony or patio. There is no need for air conditioning. Rooms are cooled by natural sea breezes and ceiling fans.

The hotel also has a communal dining/living pavilion, a huge swimming pool, a spa and beauty treatment space, and a yoga pavilion.

The beach is a minute's stroll from the villas through tall palm trees and soft grass. You can see the beach from the retreat. The sea in this secluded cove is generally glassy and calm for safe swimming when most other southwest beaches are blown out by strong on shore winds.

Talalla Retreat is passionate about food thanks to the influence of successful Australian restaurateur and Talalla founder, Laurie Rose.

The food is fresh, healthy and local. The open air restaurant serves Sri Lankan and western dishes featuring a lot of vibrant tropical fruit, crisp seasonal vegetables and fresh local seafood.

Talalla Retreat has a resident yoga instructor - Leigh - who has ten years experience of practicing hatha and ashtanga yoga and over 500 teaching hours. An internationally recognized professional ballet dancer for ten years, Leigh is now passionate about sharing yoga in a way that is nurturing and accessible to everyone from beginners to advanced students. Based in hatha, her teaching style is seamless, compassionate and challenging. Leigh teaches regular early morning meditation and pranayama followed by an asana (or posture) practice. Evenings bring classes in both restorative styles and yoga nidra.

Talalla is also great for those who surf. During the surfing season (Dec - April) they perform a daily surf check to seek out the best breaks in the local area. Surf lessons and group bookings can be arranged on request.

As well as these two core activities there are many other things you can do in the area. Sunset at the Dondra Lighthouse, Whale and Dolphin watching in Mirissia, deep sea fishing, snorkelling and a visit to a local turtle hatchery. The Galle Fort is also accessible for a day trip, as is Yala National Park.