Discover Barefoot Luxury in Sri Lanka at Trebartha East The Round House

Prepare to be captivated by the latest addition to Sri Lanka's boutique hotel scene, Trebartha East The Round House, nestled in a 12-acre cinnamon plantation near Ahangama, on the country's south coast. The tranquil, design-led hotel boasts four boutique bedrooms atop the plantation, offering an idyllic, peaceful retreat with 360-degree panoramic views of verdant rice paddies and untamed jungle.

Just a short tuk-tuk ride from the buzzing coastal town of Ahangama, Trebartha East is the brainchild of British duo Patrick and Benny Latham, who lovingly revived the abandoned plantation in February 2023. The hotel's name pays tribute to their homestead in Bodmin Moor, Cornwall.

Upon first sighting the plantation in 2017, surrounded by the picturesque cinnamon, rubber, and tea plantations and untouched jungle, the Lathams felt compelled to create something unique. Patrick Latham said, "We knew this site deserved something special and felt that in Sri Lanka, with its rich heritage of architecture and craftsmanship, anything was possible."

Inside, each piece of furniture is a masterpiece of local design, handcrafted in Colombo, and complemented by rattan works and rugs from local artisans. The hotel also showcases an art collection featuring works from prominent Sri Lankan artists like Rubert Soysa and Namal Pushpa Kumara.

Each of the four spacious rooms, adorned with four-poster beds, opens to captivating floor-to-ceiling views of the plantation. A tastefully designed common area offers the perfect setting for guests to mingle over afternoon tea or sundowners.

In addition to its design-focused ethos, Trebartha East has a reputation for laid-back luxury. The crowning jewel is an 18-meter curved infinity pool that mirrors the hotel's circular architecture, providing the ideal spot for unwinding after a sun-soaked morning on the beach.

Adding to its allure, Trebartha East's all-day kitchen provides a gastronomic delight with fresh offerings like tuna tartare, king prawns with passionfruit & coriander, and jackfruit arancini balls. Meals are served family-style around a communal table indoors or al fresco, with the option for private dining available to those seeking a more intimate setting.

Trebartha East's architect, Dr. Ar. Narein Perrera, was honoured at the Monsoon Architecture Awards 2023, recognising the hotel's elevated design that allows the landscape to continue beneath it while offering a full circle view of the stunning surroundings. The design's light touch, as if it were "softly sitting on ground", was noted by the judges for its striking visual impact.

Each of the four bedrooms is a haven of comfort, featuring four-poster beds, ensuite bathrooms with rainfall showers and jungle views, private seating areas, and modern amenities. The hotel can be booked individually or as an exclusive private villa.

Guests can embark on complimentary tours of the working cinnamon plantation and factory, stroll along the 1 km garden path through the plantation, or simply relax by the infinity pool. Despite its seclusion, the hotel is just ten minutes away from Ahangama, known for its beautiful beaches, surf spots, and vibrant dining scene.

For further information, visit their website and Instagram (@trebarthaeast) for a closer look at this piece of paradise.

Address: Trebartha East The Roundhouse, No.164/A, Meegahagoda, Ahangama.

Photography by Willem Keuppens & Fiona Walker-Arnott @fwalerarnottphotography