Open - 

Later 1920's

1st Owner - 

Count de Mauny-Talvande. Paul Bowles was a later owner. He named it Taprobane the old Greek word for Sri Lanka

Stars - ****

Guests - 

Somerset Maugham, Kylie Minogue (Who wrote a song about it) - Kings, Queens, Presidents, Prime Ministers, Aristocracy, Writers, Eccentrics 

History - 

Before being bought by the "Count" the island was used by locals to dump cobras on. The Count built his dream home and turned the island into a garden of Eden. He lived here for 30 years entertaining kings, statesmen and aristocracy.

Signature - 

Your own private staff

Rooms - 

5  @ US$1,000 - $2,200

Tales - 

While Paul Bowles was living here the government did a deal with China which involved swapping all of their rubber crop for a specified amount of rice. 

    Unfortunately the rice had been sitting in damp warehouses so long it had gone rancid and was inedible. When cooked it gave off a powerful stench. Hoarding English rice soon began and people were travelling 100 miles to get decent rice.

Claim to Fame - 

The only private island in Sri Lanka. The No.1 address in the Indian Ocean.

Innovations - 

Elephant beach polo on the beach

Feature - 

Helicopter transfer

View - 

Amazing views out over the Indian Ocean. Every location on the island affords wonderful views of Weligama Bay and the Indian Ocean so what ever you are doing there will be wonderful views.

High Tea - 

Get chef to rustle up a few treats and some Dilmah (BOPF) tea.

Facilities - 

Spacious living areas, balconies, verandahs, 2 acres of tropical gardens, a stunning infinity pool, can do weddings

Unique - 

Can only be accessed by wading through the water. Low tide is a lot easier. Or by Sedan Chair or Elephant

Restaurants - 

Discuss what you feel like with your private chef and he will make it happen. Specialises in seafood, fusion and Sri Lankan cuisine. 

    Weligama is a fishing village so if you see fishermen selling their catch on the beach take something back and chef will cook it up

Bars - 

Cocktails with a view anywhere on the island

Sights - 

Most people don't leave the Island, Explore Galle, Weligama (Stilt fishermen)

Extra -