Panchi Villa Bentota

We arrived around 11:30pm for a two night stay... and the next day at 8am we had already left. While the exterior may look pretty at first glance, the room was simply unspeakable. Bed linen stained and holed, bathroom in catastrophic condition: a flagrant lack of hygiene. If there is a health service in Sri Lanka, it should be checked urgently. I'll let you judge for yourself with the photos. Frankly, I wonder how this place can still get positive reviews

Sandali Walauwa is a charming place, with a green and well maintained setting that invites relaxation. We spent 4 nights there waiting for a return flight during events in the Middle East. Squirrels are often present, which adds to the natural atmosphere. A monkey also passed in front of us, which was a real surprise! The pool is superb and very nice to relax. The property is close to the beach: you just have to cross the train and then the road to get there. Beach restaurants are nearby, which is convenient for lunch or dinner on the waterfront. The staff is welcoming and helpful, always ready to help. The kitchen is good, even if the service can sometimes be a little long.Only small downside: the bathroom deserves a renovation. Also note the train passage, which may surprise but this is part of the setting. (take a room by the pool to hear it less) Overall, a peaceful and authentic place, ideal for enjoying nature and the beach.

The room and the buildings were just beautiful. The room was big and I loved the beautiful garden. The pool looked good, though I didn’t try it. The hotel has its own tuk tuk that can take you to town forms small fee. The staff was friendly and the breakfast was just right. My room had garden view which meant that the tracks were right there at the end of the garden. The sound didn’t bother me. But you can hear it in the room so if you’re a light sleeper this might not be the hotel for you. The garden view was wonderful though. The hotel does not have a private beach. You have to cross the tracks in order to go to the beach, but it’s a couple of minutes walk from the hotel so it’s not a days hike away:) There is a nice restaurant with sunbeds and parasols on the beach that you can use for free if you buy things from the restaurant. Unfortunately the waves were to big so I couldn’t swim in the sea which also meant that I checked out after two nights. I was meant to stay for 4. The staff was friendly and the breakfast was just right. I took a trip to Galle from here which the hotel helped me find a driver for a reasonable price.