About Us
First, there was Palamu (Sinhala for First) our cozy house that sits on a small hill overlooking the land’s main coconut groves. In 2024 we added Sama (Sinhala for Peace) a two storey house on the highest point of the land with a 17 meter lap pool. The two houses are spacious and blend effortlessly with the plantation. Think: thatched roofs, mud walls, tall coconut pillars. Our two houses are designed to fully harness the tropical elements and our proximity to the coast.
All bedrooms are fitted with king sized beds and a private bathroom. The open air rain-shower is an experience in itself, especially at dusk with the brilliant sunset, swaying coconut trees and cool running water after a hot day.
Our plantation is 100% organically run and chemicals of any type are banned save for shower gels and washing liquids. Our houses are also cleaned using vinegar and baking soda.
Cocoya is connected to the power grid but is a net supplier of electricity through our solar panels.
Rainwater is harvested by our three roof gutters and channelled into a large underground storage tank. This clean and filtered water is then used for the houses and staff quarters.
We designed the houses to be an extension of the land we love dearly. We remain greatly inspired by the natural beauty of Cocoya, its vastness and its tranquillity and wanted to keep the sense of freedom, openness and peace central to the design of both houses. Our architecture was inspired and chosen pragmatically with an appreciation of local craftsmanship and materials.
We hope to share this beautiful space with our guests and hope that she will nourish and serve you as much as she did us.
Before we welcome you into our home, we wish to bring your attention to a few points:
The property is fully open aired. The beds are lined with good quality mosquito nets to keep the insects at bay. However, please bear in mind that the property is nestled in the wilderness that insects and critters call home. We wish to co-exist peacefully with them so the property is not fogged or treated with insecticides.
There is no air conditioning. Due to its proximity to the sea, the land enjoys a very gentle sea breeze. Ceiling fans provide additional circulation for comfort, and if all fails, the rain shower is always available for a cool wash down.
The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, an electric stove and an oven. We love to cook and if we are in residence our pantry is usually stocked. You are welcome to use the facilities or request for a chef before your stay to cook your meals if you wish to stay and rest on the land. Please drop us an email to make the necessary arrangements.
While there is a wireless network, there is no television. Please bring along a few good books.
The property is our home. There are several CCTV’s in the living area and around the property for security reasons. Rest assured that there are no CCTV’s in the bedrooms or bathrooms, so your privacy is fully ensured.
We employ a team of local staff. Please expect to see them around the land and the staff quarters. The main hut will only be serviced by our trusted housekeeper, who will take care of the cleaning during your stay.