As the day breaks, the sound of crashing waves fills the air at this ultra-exclusive retreat on Sri Lanka’s sun-drenched south coast.

And while the sun climbs over the horizon, the pungent smell of Sri Lankan tea rises from the kitchen as the pool boy can be seen cleaning the delicate tiles of the shimmering 25m plunge pool.

Elsewhere – in one of the 4 luxuriously appointed bedrooms – we’re lazily rising after being woken by the butler who can be heard quietly preparing the dining table for a European breakfast.

This is Saffron & Blue, and it really is luxury at its finest.

With two inhouse chefs and staff on call, this delightfully discrete villa is one of Sri Lanka’s most elegant.

The property offers 4 oversized bedrooms, a traditionally furnished entrance pavilion and breakfast area, main living room and a generous dining room with a table for 12.

Situated in the stunning hamlet of Kosgoda, these sparkling surrounds served as an inspiration palette for the conception of Saffron & Blue which features traditional open air Sri Lankan architecture combined with colourful and contemporary interior styling.

Excitingly, the property is also full of modern and traditional art pieces curated by the owner who clearly has an excellent eye for design. Much of the art is local and part of the owners’ vision is to support, showcase and nurture Sri Lankan artists.

The resorts’ chefs are true experts in their craft and offer the very best of local Sri Lankan cuisine or whatever your heart desires.

There is simply no need to leave the villa because everything is done for you.

But alas, leave we did – just for a few hours – to visit the region’s oldest turtle sanctuary which is located a 100-metre stroll down the beachfront. We learnt about turtle conservation and were lucky enough to hold 4-day old hatchlings.

We then hurried back to Saffron & Blue to enjoy an afternoon lazing by the pool and listening to the sound of the sea while being served chilled white wine and spicy, house made Sri Lankan snacks.

And as we sank into a second night of bliss, the sun set and we watched scores of baby turtles being released into the sea, far from the prying eyes of the eagles who circle above at daybreak.

Saffron & Blue afforded an experience we will always cherish. Suffice to say, our advice would be don’t visit this beautiful island without a few nights at this glamorous villa.

You’ll never forget it.

Saffron & Blue is in Kosgoda which is an easy 2-hour drive from Colombo and is just 10 minutes south of Bentota.

You can book your stay at Saffron & Blue HERE.