Take on surfing, history and wildlife while at Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing, Pottuvil

World-renowned scientist Arthur C. Clarke noted that a ‘lifetime’ would not be enough to explore the people, history, nature and art of Sri Lanka. However, one has to start somewhere and what could be a better starting point than at Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing, which is located on the unspoilt beaches of Sri Lanka’s East coast. A beautiful boutique house situated close to Pottuvil Point promises a stylish stay at one of the most picturesque places on the island.

This beach house offers renowned service and comfort with its intimate four bedrooms, swaying palm trees and wraparound expanse of sand and surf. There are two bedrooms in the main house as well as two separate villa rooms. 

The bedrooms are well furnished in earthy tones and crisp white linen which is easy on the eye. Trellis work decorates the fanlights and four poster beds, blue and bamboo coloured slats all contribute to ensuring that guests feel both cosy and luxurious at the same time. Air conditioning beats the heat while a high ceiling adds to a feeling of spacious comfort. Wide mirrors on cut cement in the bathrooms and private balconies or terraces for each room encapsulate a package of luxury and rustic living. 

Dine al-fresco on the beach with the waves rolling up onto the sand as you enjoy a delicious seafood fiesta. The breeze, the surf and the food combine to create a moment you will want to repeat during your stay at the house. The flexible meal times and chef will accommodate your BBQ on the beach or an intimate dinner for two. 

While Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing has amazing views and a private pool which is a hop, step and a jump away from a wide expanse of remote East Coast beach, the facilities do not stop there. This boutique house may be off the beaten track but it certainly does not skimp on its services, just make sure to ask what you need and Jetwing will provide. 

The demand for Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing is not just tied to the comfort and luxury of the accommodation but also due to its amazing location. Nature lovers will be faced with a multitude of choices as the national parks of Gal Oya, Kumana and Lahugala are close by. Elephant, crocodile, leopard, bear and wild boar are all part of the attraction of these historic national parks along with a wide and diverse variety of birds. Often elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, monitors and many birds can be found around the lagoons and rivers within five to 30 minutes of the house.

Those seeking history will find the Muhudu Maha Vihare in Pottuvil, the legendary landing place of Queen Viharamahadevi two millennia ago. This can be combined with a visit to the Magul Maha Viharaya, where Queen Viharamahadevi was said to have wed King Kavantissa. The significant Kudumbigala Monastery with the only cylindrical Dagoba standing in the country and the 200 rock caves is about an hour away and not far from Kumana. 

The people in the area are very welcoming and are happy to involve you in a cookery class allowing you to experience unique flavours and you can even go fishing with the local fisherman here. Their lobster fishing sea canoes sit on the beach right outside of the house.

However, the beach is definitely the biggest attraction and with Pottuvil Point just along the beach from the house being one of the top surf spots in the world there is no better base for surfing enthusiasts than Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing promising an adventure like no other.