Olcote in Ceylon

I was blown away by this truly gorgeous boutique hotel nestled right in the heart of Colombo. It was my first time in Sri Lanka and I used it as a base for two weeks while exploring all around this stunning country. From the grand stone-walled entrance I felt I was entering a castle but instead found a warm, peaceful, inviting home on the other side. The rooms were pure luxury with huge postered beds, thick cotton sheets and spacious spa-like en-suites. But what makes this place special is the personal touches and heart put into every detail of the place, for example all of the custom furniture and intricate wooden detailing seen throughout was hand carved by a single local craftsman. There are many refrences to the host's connection to Ireland - the Irish bar especially got heavy use during our stay - and the focus on family. Many of the staff have been there over ten years since it's opening, and they aim to make you feel that this is your home as well. The Sri Lankan cuisine served up each meal was exceptionally delicious but they also did an incredibly good full Irish breakfast for those with more western tastes. A special shout out has to go to Rishi who was our guide for much of the trip. He was truly dedicated to ensuring we had an incredible time and always one step ahead of us for planning. If he as much as overheard us talking about something we wanted to see or do he would find a way to make it happen, and was a huge part of what made this trip so memorable. I fell in love with Sri Lanka during my short time there, from the wild safaris, mountainous tea plantations, historic cities, stunning beaches and rich culture I'm shocked to have known so little of it beforehand. I would highly recommend it to be top of anyone's travel wish list and Olcote in Ceylon is the perfect gateway to this beautiful country!

WOW WOW WOW......This villa/hotel is stunning...We spent Xmas '23 with what i can only describe now as Family. From the lead up to the holiday, Tess the owner, who resides between Sri Lanka and Ireland, is a constant mind of information which leads to a trouble free holiday. From the moment you step out of the airport you can leave your stress there. The hardest decision you will have to make is what time to have your meals! Rishi, oh dear Rishi our number one main go to young Man., if i could have put him in my luggage i surly would have. When we arrived at Olcote there was an entourage of staff to meet us and they asked my husband to raise the UK flag, we were very touched by this gesture. Chief Joseph had prepared us an early lunch, knowing we had had a long journey, it was very well received! we were served by Tilan, a very smiley lovely young man, who just wanted to serve and please you....Thank you for your impeccable service dear Tilan x x x We had many wonderful tasty meals from Joseph, both Traditional and European, just get used to 3 courses each meal time! I had a cookery lesson, which was fab! He would ask what would we like for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We actually winded up week 2 just having his delicious soups for lunch with a homemade cheesy bun. The pumpkin and lemongrass was our favorite Thank you dear Joseph x x x We had a ground floor room " Black Rock" very very comfortable, the bed linen is luxurious and the mattress is awesome! and i really am a fussy sleeper! Fantastic shower. The room was made up every day and your personal clothes are taken to be washed, every Woman's dream! Last but never least is Rishi...he arranges all your wants and needs. Asking if there is anywhere particularly if you would like to go/ see. Well ours was the turtles, and to release one into the Indian Ocean...we let 2 go, totally awesome and a touch emotional. Next on our list, after a days rest, was the Elephants. Rishi always explains why he suggests the one he believes you will get the most out of and boy that did not disappoint. ME bathing and Elephant and them him bathing me! I memory of a lifetime. There were many temples and local tours were on the cards and we enjoyed them all. This holiday was the start of our 50th wedding anniversary celebrations and it did not disappoint. Between Rishi and Tess we had a gorgeous Anniversary cake made for us, Balloon Bunting and Fireworks!! We celebrated Xmas Eve with a Gala night at the Lavinia Hotel Columbo. AWESOME! Thank you dear Rishi for your service, your comedy and your friendship x x x I am more than happy to recommend Olcote in Ceylon to anyone and will answer any questions you may have, but if the question is "Should I Go?" read this review again.