Ishq Talpe is a family owned, exclusive-use luxury villa, set on a quiet coastline in Galle. Designed by renowned Australian architect Bruce Fell-Smith in the 1990s before undergoing an extensive renovation and upgrade under the guidance of award-winning architect Philip Weeraratne, the villa takes its name from the Arabic word for love and passion. This beautiful 05-suite villa sleeps up to 14 guests and is a vision of contemporary design, tropical simplicity and oceanic hues. Expect characteristics of colonial Dutch heritage, high ceilings, airy spaces in bedrooms and common areas, large king-sized beds for deep slumbers, and low-slung chairs by the courtyard pool for sunbathing. Therapeutic evening massages on the lawn and lazy swims are the perfect activity for taking in the gorgeous Indian Ocean sunsets. Meals feature fabulous Sri Lankan and international cuisine highlighting fresh seafood and locally grown produce, whilst the well-stocked games and movie room is an ideal hangout spot for families and children. The villa is only available on exclusive-use basis. The entire property, its staff and facilities will be completely dedicated to the booking party. Consider Ishq Talpe as your own private beach escape. I am available on call or via email. The villa team is led by Villa Manager Manjula who is a fantastic host. Located in Talpe, a coastal town in Galle’s “French Riviera” and one of Asia’s best-kept secrets for its lush beaches, rock pools, incredible wildlife, rich heritage and culture, Ishq Talpe basks amidst the tropical rays of the Southern coast. Spoiling you with your very own stretch of sand that leads to the vast blue expanse of the Indian Ocean, you get to experience the true definition of refreshing tranquillity. Sea turtles congregate to feast in front of the villa in the early hours of the morning and are seen once again around 4.30pm in the evenings. During the season from November to April, a hundred-meter walk along the beach on either side of the villa offers natural pools for swimming. The best swimmable beach in the area is Wijaya beach, a 4-minute drive (1.2km) from the villa. For surfing enthusiasts, the closest surf breaks include Unawatuna (10-minute drive; 4km), Kabalana (15-minute drive; 9km), Dewata (15-minute drive; 6km) and Weligama (30-minute drive; 20km). Inland Talpe is as diverse as its rich waters and will take you through tea plantations, paddy cultivations, villages, lakes, local markets, and ancient temples. The area also has an interesting selection of bars, restaurants, and cafes. Tuk tuks are a fun way to get around Talpe. Alternatively, our Villa Manager and his team would be a happy to arrange a private A/C vehicle for you to explore the area.