DOORNBERG

Doornberg is nothing short of inspiring. This singular Sri Lankan villa has stood atop Richmond Hill for more than three centuries, providing marvellous vistas of the UNESCO-protected Galle Fort and out to the Indian Ocean. The villa was originally built by a retired Dutch admiral all the way back in 1712.

This stunning building housed the first school in Ceylon and once upon a time, the estate served as the residence of the Anglican Arch Deacon of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. During the 21st century, Doornberg has been transformed from a storied historic landmark into an incredible private villa filled with curated furniture and exquisite pieces of contemporary art. Riddled with stories, filled with stunning works of art and surrounded by lush green landscape, Doornberg is a place that delights the senses and casts a spell that will stay with you for years to come.

Sleeps: 8 guests
Size: 1,000m²
Last renovated: 2021

Doornberg offers a masterclass in balancing authentic historic charm with a level of modern comfort that’s second to none. The lovingly restored villa offers every creature comfort modern travellers could ask for while also celebrating and safeguarding the estate’s rich heritage. Everything from electric cords to Wi-Fi routers have been discretely positioned to allow the original structures to truly shine. While clutter and cords have been kept at a minimum, art has been given centre stage. The villa’s vast gallery like spaces are adorned with pieces by Sri Lankan, Chinese and Australian artists. Surrounded by modern masterpieces in a villa that has stood for centuries, it’s hard to imagine a more inspiring setting for your holiday.

Living Room

The great room is the heart of the property, both literally and figuratively. Sitting at the centre of the villa, the space features the villa’s signature high ceilings and gallery like lighting that allows the sleek furnishings and curated artwork to truly come into their own. There are two distinct sitting areas to relax in – one is a pair of white sofas and the other is an arrangement of divan style seats. When you feel like curling up with a good book or gathering your thoughts in solitude, the villa’s library offers an inspiring space to retreat to. The library features an extensive collection of books focusing on Sri Lankan and international art and architecture. A stunning acrylic piece by the Australian artist Marisa Purcell which adorns this room is yet another highlight.

Dining Room

In keeping with the property’s inspiring aura, Doornberg offers stunning options for guests to gather up for relaxed meals and gourmet feasts. Guests can dine indoors, surrounded by the villa’s immaculate architecture and stunning works of art. Alternatively, meals can be served outside in the courtyard where you’ll be treated to luscious vistas of the garden and splendid views of the villa itself which has stood on this very spot for centuries.

Garden

Doornberg beautifully embodies the indoor/outdoor lifestyle that’s so integral to the Sri Lankan way of life. The villa is set amid vast green lawns framed by native flora with shaded verandas with their impressive columns offering a cool and comfortable setting for drinking in the peaceful scenery. The central courtyard is shaded by a beautiful rose apple tree while an imposing banyan tree presides over one side of the villa. The 16-metre long swimming pool is slightly hidden away, with a verdant mango tree and lush tropical greenery lending it the feel of a remote and luxuriously private oasis.

Doornberg has four bedrooms. Each bedroom features individual garden access and they all echo the historic charm of the estate itself. All four rooms come with beautifully restored Dutch beds fitted with custom made 10-inch mattresses and monogrammed sheets. Each room is adjoined by a charming reading lounge that’s ideal for relaxing and quiet contemplation. All four rooms are adjoined by an ensuite bathroom complete with a beautifully restored iron bath.

Doornberg is a four-bedroom villa that’s built over a single floor. The building features indoor living and dining areas and generous outdoor verandas. The four bedrooms are adjoined by an ensuite bathroom each. The villa is set amid generous private gardens that feature a 16-metre long swimming pool.

Your stay in Doornberg is made enjoyable by the professional staff. The villa staff have been professionally trained and will do their utmost to please with their warm and friendly hospitality.

Villa Manager

Doornberg’s experienced and knowledgeable manager is responsible for the overall operation of the villa. The villa manager will oversee and coordinate the staff and property and assist you during your stay.

Housekeeping

Housekeepers attend the villa daily to take care of all domestic duties.

Butlers

Butlers are on hand daily to assist with serving during meal times and attend to other guest requirements throughout the day.

Chef

The villa’s skilled private chef will happily prepare anything from the Western, Asian, vegetarian and children’s suggestion menus, as well as discuss special requests and dietary requirements.

Security

Doornberg includes night time security between 5pm – 9am.

Doornberg is located in Galle in southern Sri Lanka. The villa occupies an enviable vantage point atop Richmond Hill and offers sweeping panoramas of the UNESCO-protected Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean stretching out beyond. This is a serene setting away from the madding crowd yet within easy reach of all the sights and sounds of southern Sri Lanka. The charming cobble stone streets and colonial era buildings of Galle Fort can be reached in just a five-minute drive. Unawatuna Beach, which is famed for its tropical beauty, is about 15 minutes away. The Virgin White Tea Plantation, which makes for a fascinating daytrip, can be reached in about 40 minutes from the villa.

Click on the ‘Reserve’ button to view live rates and availability for your desired dates. To book click on ‘Reserve Now’ and follow the steps. Ministry of Villas accepts Visa, MasterCard, Amex, PayPal or bank transfer. Once your payment has been processed, we will send you a booking confirmation via email.