We live on an island. One that has been declared a must-visit place. This island in the sun that allows a traveler to go from golden beaches to green pastures within a matter of hours has so much to offer. And yet so much remains undiscovered.
Traditionally tourism in Sri Lanka had been confined to a few key cities like Kandy, Dambulla and Anuradhapura for the history buffs and Galle, Negambo and Benthota for the seekers of sunshine. Yet, more recently newer areas with new adventures to offer have emerged. Ahangama, not too far from Galle is one such locale. Boasting some of the best waves for surfing, this small Southern Coast town is soon becoming a notable stop in any travel itinerary.
The area itself had recently flourished with home-stays, boutique hotels and villas a plenty. Among these there is one that is so unique, that it has been lauded not just the best in the area but the leading boutique hotel in Sri Lanka at the World Travel Awards (WTA), Asia and Oceania 2019.
Mosvold Villa has a classic tale of how one Kurt Mosvold from Normay, fell in love with an island that was introduced to him by his friends Nimal and Nilanka Martinus. The rest as they say is history and the result is one of the most stunning villas on the Southern Coast. Also featured in the National Geographic Traveller’s Luxury Collection for 2018, 2019 and 2020 (one of only two properties from Sri Lanka) in addition to being named winner as Luxury Beachfront Villa-Asia Continent at World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 held in Bali, this property is elegant in its simplicity. That we believe is the best way to describe it.
Located approximately ½ hour away from the historic Galle Fort, Mosvold houses 12 bedroom suites offering for starters breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Combining traditional architecture commonplace in the South, with modern conveniences the rooms also come with private balconies, a plunge pool with Jacuzzi, luxury rain shower, mini-bar, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, Blue-Ray and DVD player and a host of others to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Comfort and hospitality is key at Mosvold, and from the time of our arrival at the villa the attention to detail was evident in the furnishings, lighting, staff decorum and in the fine offerings of welcome. Once settled in our plush room, it was difficult to keep us indoors as the sound of the waves was inviting us to the majestic ocean. Mosvold specializes in dining by the beach, overlooking the waves as they break on the rocks and we decided to have breakfast by the beach.
Our culinary journey at the property though began with a three-course dinner at the alfresco dining area. Smoked Duck Breast Salad with Apple Slaw opened up our palate with its tangy Orange dressing ready for the burst of flavour that would come from the Yellow-Fin Tune Fillet with Cauliflower Crust served with Pepper Jelly and Anchovies. A Rich Chocolate and Nut Brownie served with Orange Candy, Caramelized Strawberries and Vanilla Ice-cream was the perfect end to a meal that satisfied a weary travelers senses. Dinner also gives guests a choice of Seafood Bouillabaisse with Garlic Bread, a Masala Lamb Cutlet on Coriander Mash served with Garlic Rock Lobster and finishing off with Fresh Pineapple Rings with Caramelized Sugar, Flamed with Local Arrack, Mint and Passion Fruit served with Vanilla Ice-cream and Cashew Nut Crumble.
A hearty meal like that put us to a deep sleep, lulled by the sounds of the ocean only to wake up to a glorious sunrise and a full-works American Breakfast served by the sea. This was an Instagram-worthy capture if there was any, and if pictures could speak then it would also tell you that the breakfast elements were on point.
No trip to the South is complete without a traditional rice and curry feed, and we had the privilege of our meal being prepared for us by Mosvold’s award-winning Executive Chef in a special cookery demonstration. There is a saying that every part of Sri Lanka has a different version of the island’s staple rice and curry and this was true from what we witnessed at Mosvold. While preparation is much the same, the secret we were told lies in the spices and condiments. Having tasted the final product we concur that the Southern version certainly does have its own colours, flavours and stories to tell.
Our stay at Mosvold also included a signature cocktails and canapés evening by the pool that is the perfect way to unwind and relax. Leaning heavily on the best seafood from the locality, the canapé feast was an experience in itself that was certainly tantalizing.
Having spent a day and a half at this unique property, we are indeed convinced as to why Mosvold deserved its accolades. But don’t take our word for it… Come and experience, its unique island allure.
Written by Nishu Gunawardana
Photographs by Sanura Gunawardana
Address: No.38 Matara Road, Welhengoda, Ahangama, Galle.
Telephone: 091 2 282942
E-mail: info@mosvold.lk