Away from the city amidst serenity, style and comfort
Colonial charm: The spacious hall of Diklande bungalow
It is Sunday morning and I am at the Diklande Estate Bungalow close to Negombo, in the middle of a 50-acre coconut plantation. I came here for the weekend, escaping the stress and noise of Colombo. It is so easy to get caught up in the grid of the city, too easy. So I try to get out as often as I can, to breathe, to feel the breeze on my skin, to reconnect with nature, to relax, to be. Exchanging the endless grey with lush green, honking cars with singing birds, thick exhaust with fresh air, and tasteless fast food with fresh home-made meals.
Through a friend I heard about the Diklande Estate Bungalow, newly managed by an eco lodge company called ‘Back of Beyond’. The name was already very promising, exactly the kind of location I am looking for when travelling – a remote place, far away from other towns and a bit difficult to get to.I just needed to get out of the city jungle again, but did not want to travel too far. There was even a special weekend offer, so I was really excited, packed my things, and left right after work on Friday afternoon, heading north.
After only a bit over an hour’s drive I saw the white sign ‘Dicklande East Estate’ on the right side of the street, just as mentioned in the descriptions I got. Endless slender trunks and waving fronds. The red gravel road cuts through the coconut plantation and curves under the porch of the white bungalow with blue windows thrown wide open. As soon as you step into this peaceful location full of historical charm and quaintness, you enter the world of 19th century colonial living in Sri Lanka.
This coconut estate was established over 200 years ago when coconut became a commercial crop and countless acres of land were converted into plantations. Starting in 1887, the grounds were purchased in different lots by the De Soysa family. The sale was effected on behalf of Queen Victoria by the then Colonial Secretary. After many decades and a land reform the remaining property is still family-owned today.
“The quaint bungalow has the distinct flavour of a plantation bungalow juxtaposed with the vibrant tropical greens. It was a creation of history. And today it’s a creation of a highly artistic Sri Lankan family that has crafted it into a softly welcoming home.”
When I arrived at the place on Friday I was welcomed by the housekeeper and cook Samantha with a friendly smile and a refreshing papaya juice. I immediately felt comfortable in my home away from home.
The beautifully restored bungalow has a large airy sitting area that opens out to the terrace with a deep green swimming pool lined with tall trees. The three large bedrooms flow naturally from the living area, with high white ceilings. Tasteful decoration with great attention to detail, textiles in fresh citrus colours and vintage furniture add to the unique feel that combines the bungalow’s colonial heritage with its tropical location. Also the attached bathrooms have a wonderful combination of styles – modern, comfortable, natural and open, allowing the sunlight to stream in.My favourite spot (besides the pool) is the ‘quiet room’, a space created to lounge on the low divan and read, or sit at the vintage escritoire used by generations and write, sketch or simply be inspired.
My Saturday was very relaxing. Sleeping in, having a late breakfast, reading in the shade, taking a refreshing dip in the pool. After a delicious lunch I felt like exploring the surroundings a bit. So I wandered around the coconut estate which also has subsidiary spice crops and a dairy farm, and witnessed daily routines happening under the tall palms that seem to stretch endlessly in every direction.
I was considering a short trip to Negombo in the evening, for dinner, a walk on the beach, and to experience the vibrant tourist scene. But then again, the thought of just staying in this peaceful oasis, finishing my book and enjoying another of Samantha’s wonderful meals was just more tempting….
After another rejuvenating night in crisp sheets and soft pillows it is already Sunday and I have to leave this idyllic getaway. But I feel recharged with new energy after this wonderful weekend. I will definitely be back for another perfect city escape, either alone or taking family or friends. Since the bungalow is so conveniently close to the airport I will also recommend it to friends on a Sri Lanka holiday. What a great place to rid a jetlag or catch your breath from a hectic itinerary around the island.
I am also looking forward to discover some of the other ‘Back of Beyond’ eco lodges (in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Tangalle and Yala). My yoga group is planning a trip to Sigiriya soon, and I already know where we are going to stay – up in a tree house in the ‘Back of Beyond’.
For reservations, please contact :
T +94 773951527
E info@backofbeyond.lk
W www.backofbeyond.lk