27/02/2023
This 1 acre hideaway is bounded on both sides by two streams. The dry - zone scrub (which comprises much of the area's plant life), surrounds the house. The scrubland has not been landscaped, however, native trees from the nearby jungles have been planted on the property (trees, which are a haven for many different species of birds).
The inspiration for the name "River Island" comes from the two streams, that flow parallel to the bungalow (one river, on either side of the bungalow). This gives it the impression of being an "island", and that, combined with it's seclusion and privacy from the outside world, means that its has an extremely relaxing feel, and a very enjoyable atmosphere.
This does not however, mean that River Island is completely cut off from the outside world as, the Colombo - Galle Road (also known as the A2 Highway), is located only ten minutes away from River Island (regardless of the vehicle you are travelling in).
Attractions nearby include (times are in relations to vehicles):
1. Yala National Park: 45 minutes
2. Bundala (Bird Sanctuary): 20 minutes
3. Udawalawe National Park: 1 hour (60 minutes)
4. Kalametiya (Bird Sanctuary): 30 minutes
5. Lunugamvehera National Park: 1 hour (60 minutes)
6. Kataragama: (A Temple/Pilgrimage Site): 1 hour (60 minutes)
7. Usangoda Beach: 45 minutes
8. Galle Fort: (A UNESCO World Heritage Site): 2 hours (120 minutes)
The architecture of the house, is characteristic of a typical Sri Lankan village house, but it is securable The house itself is designed as an open plan house, with the relevant seating and sleeping areas. The house has sufficient space to comfortably fit up to 6 people, although the recommended number of people, at any one time is, 5 people. The house has two modern, spacious bathroom's, a large veranda for relaxing purposes, or for eating purposes, along with steps, that lead from the veranda, to the river bank of one of the rivers.
commodities such as hot water and wifi, are currently unavailable, though given the temperatures that are found in the southern province (temperatures can reach 38 - 40 degree's celsius on a daily basis), a cool water shower, can be extremely refreshing after a tiring, long day's outing/expedition.
Don't worry about a break in communications from the outside world, as despite its distance and seclusiveness from the outside world, River Island has full signal for mobile phones (in terms of both regular signal and 3G), on mobile phone carriers such as Dialog and Etisalat. This also means that portable internet connections, on dongles, work almost perfectly, apart from the odd loss in signal, at certain points during the day.
In terms of food and beverages, there is a menu which you can choose from, with Sri Lankan food available. The cook Sunanda can cook extremely delicious Sri Lankan food, and she along with her husband chandrasena will look after you very well during your stay at River Island.
please bring your own sheets and towels
The nearest major town is Hambantota, and it is located about 15 - 20 minutes (by any road - faring vehicle) away from River Island.
River Island is simple, yet beautiful, and it is an amazing place to stay at, especially if you are a true nature lover.
