Why House is a strange name for a beautiful boutique property, don't you agree? The story goes that there were many whys during its construction hence it was named Why House. This upmarket villa-style inland property is luxurious but with a relaxed ambience. It is just 15 minutes away from Galle Fort and a 2-minute drive/15-minute short walk from Dalawella Beach. Sri Lanka’s international airport is an easy drive of under two and a half hours.
Why House is set in 3 acres of tropical garden that can accommodate up to 24 people in its 10 double en-suite rooms at any given time. Its main house has three rooms and the rest are dispersed between the Garden House, the Pool and Paddy view rooms and the Garden Bungalow. These accommodation options have interconnecting rooms that are great for families. The T-shaped swimming pool, Yoga Shala and the massage pavilion are some of the facilities guests can also enjoy during their stay.
The main house and each bungalow all have their own distinct styles. They are a result of carefully chosen fabrics and interior design of Henrietta the host. There are no two similar ones. The interior of each accommodation is stunning, reflecting a simple elegance. Soft exquisite Rajasthani cotton is used for cushion covers and bathrobes are simple and eye catching. They are handpicked by Henrietta who runs the property. Henrietta’s eye for elegant, simple beauty coupled with her quirky touches are all over the property not to mention the portraits and soft toy replicas of her Dachshund, Nigella. (Nigella as you would well understand is a hit with children and adults alike.) The rooms are equipped with free wi-fi and mini fridges. TV with a satellite connection is available in the communal area.
Some of the optional activities for guests include gentle cycling around the quiet roads of the village. A good place to go for a year around swim is Dalawella Beach. A session of yoga in the morning or late afternoon is also a great way of unwinding. If you are in the mood to get pampered, speak to the hotel staff to get the services of the masseur for a good ayurvedic massage. Another great way to relax in the afternoon is by engaging in a cooking class. Alternatively go on a shopping tour or a walking tour to nearby Galle Fort.
Our bedroom had a four-poster bed that was gently draped with soft fabrics adorned by a soft cotton quilt with block printed motif and the matching cushions made of Rajasthani cotton. We loved the openness of our bathroom and the verandah facing out to the lush tropics. The view from the verandah was an uninterrupted landscape of paddy fields and patch of organic home garden. There is modified access for wheelchairs to rooms.
The restaurant is situated in the middle of the property overlooking the large pool. The host makes it a point to be around to make sure everyone is well-looked after. You can opt to be as private as you want at dinning or be part of the others if you wish to mingle. The food is simple and the wine list is carefully put together by Henrietta herself who is also a chef. Our sweet tooth was thrilled by the warm vanilla cup cakes with melting soft icing on top served with evening tea in the lounge. It was homely and perfect way to enjoy a cup of afternoon tea. The hotel does a variety of cuisine from Sri Lankan to western to Asian. The style is elegant yet unstuffy cuisine.
We recommend a minimum stay of 2 or more at Why House. This property would suit most travellers, including families, small group, couples or solo travellers too.
