Ishq Colombo

Ishq Colombo sits in a quiet residential neighbourhood, ideally placed for exploring the citys best restaurants, lively bars, healthy food cafes, contemporary art galleries and shopping centres. Designed by Channa Daswatta, a protégé of the late Geoffrey Bawa, the villa pays homage to Sri Lankas rich architectural heritage with a confident, contemporary feel.

With just four suites sleeping a maximum of ten guests, Ishq feels like a private home rather than a hotel. The categories include a Pool Suite, and the villas private swimming pool offers welcome respite from the Colombo heat, bordered by a tall vertical garden for privacy. The chef curates dinner personally, drawing on Sri Lankan and international dishes alongside specialty Memoni cuisine, and all dietary requirements including gluten-free and vegan are catered for.

One quirk worth noting: the villa does not have a liquor license, but guests are welcome to bring their own alcohol. The staff will chill, store and serve it at no extra charge, which works well for those who like to choose their own wine with dinner.

Best for couples or small groups of friends who want a stylish, discreet base in Colombo with personal service and excellent food. Not for those who need resort-scale facilities, but for a genuinely boutique urban stay with real architectural character and a private pool, Ishq is a lovely find.