Taprobane Island is an impossibly romantic destination, perfect for a traveller seeking a truly escapist location. It peers from behind trees on a rocky outcrop in Weligama Bay and its two-and-a-half acres of secluded gardens and jungle scrub are surrounded by tropical seas. Look north for the mainland; look south and there is nothing between you and the South Pole. The island was bought for the princely sum of Rs250 in the 1920s by the Count de Mauny of Talvande, a Frenchman who was driven from England to Ceylon by marital and financial problems, and who was so inspired that he remained to build his dream home. It has since been home to the author Paul Bowles and is now owned by Geoffrey Dobbs, the drive behind the Galle Literary festival. Dobbs, whilst keeping to the original design, has beautifully restored this octagonal villa. It has five spacious suites, high wooden ceilings and cooling white terrazzo floors.  The views from the island are magnificent and there can be no better way to start the day than to plunge into the Indian Ocean for a morning dip before breakfast on the terrace. It can be a little blowy during bad weather, but it all adds to the enchanting appeal of this island retreat. Taprobane Island is an ideal venue to celebrate a special occasion may it be a wedding or a private party.  With prior notice, the management will make all arrangements to make it a memorable occasion.  Nearby lies the golden beach of Mirissa, one of the finest on the island, with its soft white sand and challenging waves. But you may wish simply to stay on your unique island and enjoy some of the finest views of their kind in the world. The villa’s history is lovingly recorded by framed letters and photos.

Accommodation
There are five bedrooms – four doubles and one twin room that can sleep up to 10 guests.  The rooms are comfortably furnished with antique four-poster Dutch period beds fitted with mosquito netting. The rooms are cooled by the sea breeze and overhead fans. The villa has a terrace wrapped around most of its octagonal structure; all double rooms open out to their own private terraces with magnificent views of the surrounding Indian Ocean. All bedrooms have spacious ensuite bathrooms. Gaze at the stars or blue sky whilst taking a private shower. Two bathrooms have sunken showers, one of which is shared by two bedrooms. Be lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of the sea.

Facilities
Shaded terraces and verandahs skirts the villa and are furnished with Planter’s chairs ideal for lazing away in the tropical sun or shade. An infinity pool spills into the sea on the west of the island. A modern kitchen and four house staff, including a cook, are there to serve you. Mainly seafood and Asian cuisine including Sri Lankan rice and curries are served here.  Taprobane Island has extensive tropical gardens scattered with Frangipani, palms, bougainvillea and heliconia.  PADI diving courses can be arranged at a nearby hotel and the scuba diving is reputed to be good during the high season (Dec-Apr). Uniformed security personnel ensure the guest’s privacy and safety at all times.

Excursions
Taprobane Island serves as an excellent base for exploring the southern cultural heritage, the fine beaches, and natural wilderness.  Weligama, Unawatuna and Mirissa beaches offer a perfect environment for swimming and snorkeling along the coral reefs. Visit Galle’s 17th century Dutch Fort, a UNESCO-protected World Heritage

site and a melting pot of cultural influences. Several hours can be spent exploring the narrow streets lined with Dutch and British colonial era buildings which are still in use, sturdy ramparts looking out to sea, the lighthouse, and a growing collection of art galleries, shops, boutique hotels, cafes and restaurants.  For the more adventurous, day excursions are possible to Sinharaja Rainforest, Uda Walawe National Park and Yala National Park.