EXPLORING THE BEAUTIFUL HIDDEN GEM IN WELIGAMA , MALABAR HILL SRI LANKA
Perched above the lush, green landscapes of Weligama on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Malabar Hill has become one of the island’s unique luxury boutique resorts, combining elegant architecture, breathtaking natural surroundings, and a thoughtfully curated culinary experience. Located just a short drive inland from Weligama Bay, Malabar Hill overlooks scenic rice paddies, forests and the Indian Ocean. Once you enter the resort, you feel the tranquility, and experience the rustic luxury which offers an escape from the outside world.
Malabar Hill was the concept of long-time friends and hospitality entrepreneurs Dominic Scriven and Lawson Johnston, who shared a vision of creating an eco friendly resort that blended both unique design and an authentic Sri Lankan experience. Drawing on a lifetime of travel, Australian designer Lawson Johnston found inspiration in his extensive journeys across Sri Lanka and the Asian region. These shaped the foundations of a meticulous ten-year design journey that ultimately brought Malabar Hill to life.
What captivated me as I entered was the elegant architecture and landscape. From locally handcrafted terracotta roofs and floor tiles to beautifully restored reclaimed timber doors and windows, every detail reflects a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and traditions. Elegant villas are nestled within the hillside which are made using natural materials, while handcrafted furnishings create an atmosphere of understated luxury.
The Hill House at Malabar Hill Sri Lanka offers a restaurant, cocktail bar, and stunning infinity pool, all framed by a visually striking view of lush wetlands and paddies. The menu celebrates fresh, local Sri Lankan produce and seafood by blending rich regional culinary traditions with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Melding fragrant spices, artisan cheeses, seasonal vegetables, and tropical fruits, it offers a vibrant and sophisticated dining experience.
The open-air restaurant offers a 10-metre bar with amazing 270-degree views from the jungle to the sea, providing the perfect backdrop for my luncheon at Malabar Hill House, which was nothing short of spectacular. From refreshing cocktails to dessert, every dish is made to perfection by the expert chefs which showcases the resort’s dedication to flavour, and fresh, premium local produce.
Appetisers: The zesty Chili Lime Prawn Salad, delicate Tuna Crudo, and the Slow Roast Lamb Chermoula Flatbread with hummus were exceptional. The Trio of Beets—a clever medley of roasted and pickled beets with feta and pita—was a exceptional.
Mains: The Malabar Prawn Curry was richly yet delicately spiced, perfectly complemented by a crisp kachumbar salad and rice, while the Crispy Skin Barramundi was equally flawless and exuding flavour.
Dessert: A special thank you to the General Manager, Mr. Sanjiva Gautamadasa, for recommending the Passion Fruit Cheeks. Paired with milk toffee crumble and French vanilla, it was a heavenly explosion of flavour that perfectly completed the meal. The Mango Cheesecake is also another decadent dish that satisfies those sweet cravings.
The Amazing Dishes Photographed Below :
Beyond exceptional cuisine, the resort features The Hill Spa and Yoga Pavilion, a wellness sanctuary designed to heal, calm, and restore balance. Guests can enjoy expert massages, facials, and a pristine pool, complemented by an open-air pavilion for nature-immersed yoga and mindfulness.
More than just a luxury boutique resort, Malabar Hill offers an experience rooted in nature, design and genuine Sri Lankan hospitality. Its breathtaking location, rustic but stunning architecture and refined cuisine have made it a sought-after destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and authenticity on Sri Lanka’s southern coast . Whether visiting for a relaxing getaway, a romantic escape or simply to savour exceptional cuisine amidst heavenly environs, Malabar Hill stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating hospitality destinations.
By NELUM BUDDHADASA
The lobby area of the beautiful Malabar Hill
