Talpe Natural Pool Hotels

"This property is a rare example where the reality is better than the photos. It is so often the other way around. It is a unique villa, situated right on the beach with a safe and lovely swimming area just down the steps from the back garden. The pool is lovely if you don't fancy going in the sea, and you can walk along to see the green turtles arriving every morning and evening on Thalpe beach. This is one of the most majestic sights. You do not have to pay anyone to see them - you can walk and see them yourself, and even swim alongside them should you choose to. I had a lovely room on the first floor with a balcony where I spent time reading and enjoying the views. A great place for a solo traveller, too."

"Lovely hotel and as always im Sri Lanka, great staff. Amazing location and views. Points to note. Dont pay for the higher floor option. Its not taken seriously by the hotel. We were put in the 2nd floor and told anything above ground was considered the higher floor collection. Cheeky. You cant swim in the sea from the hotel. Its all foilage and coral. Thats all said its right on the sea and is an incredible spot to spend time. "

"Amazing location. Super friendly staff. Very small and beautiful boutique hotel. Just next to the beach where you can swim with huge sea turtles. Warmly recommended."

"I had a really wonderful time at Tabula Rasa. Felt like the staff couldn’t do enough to ensure my stay was perfect. The location is stunning. It is worth being located up hill in the peace and quiet, and so easy to pop out in a tuk tuk. The food was really good, I expected to eat out more but, I’d often crave the chef’s dhal! I was able to eat really good plant based meals without getting bored of the menu. The chef would come out to chat, and was very keen to ensure I enjoyed the food. All of the staff make you feel part of the family and nothing was too much trouble. They organised a driver for my longer trips, and a tuk driver who was perfect for getting into local towns or the beach. I had a plunge pool room which was worth the extra. Relaxing out there, with an endless view of the jungle, the ocean in the distance, and monkeys leaping from the trees is pure heaven. The monkeys even enjoyed coconuts above my sun lounger one morning. I have no doubt I will return! "

"We had a fabulous holiday at this beautiful hotel. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. We were given a room upgrade to an ocean view "

"Had a really relaxing stay. The property is gorgeous and I highly recommend the ocean view room. The staff went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable and looked after. Will definitely be back "