A stylish retreat for large families seeking something special. Imagine three elegant villas nestled into a gently sloping hillside on Sri Lanka's south coast. With sweeping ocean views, spacious verandas, rooftop terraces shaded by palm trees, and thoughtfully designed living spaces that feel like a private world. Welcome to ON Houses – a modern hideaway for families who want to explore the world together without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.
Each villa can accommodate up to ten guests: four double rooms, one twin room – perfectly divided over two floors, which not only looks spacious but also provides exactly the amount of privacy that is often missing on family holidays.
Why families love ON Houses
One of the quiet luxuries of ON Houses is the clever layout: the bedrooms are spread across two levels – giving teenagers their own space, young children their quiet time, and parents a moment of peace to themselves. And yet, it seems like everyone finds themselves coming together again and again – by the pool, at lunch, or barefoot on the rooftop terrace as the sun sets.
Here, stylish design meets relaxed ease – in a rare combination of privacy, spaciousness and thoughtful service.
More than just a place to sleep
Admittedly, the architecture is a real highlight – ideal for design enthusiasts. But behind the elegant facade lies a place brimming with life and space to play. Children (and parents!) love the legendary jump from the deck into the three-meter-deep infinity pool. The beach right in front of the garden? Gentle, inviting, and perfect for splashing around or taking your first surfing lessons.
An air-conditioned indoor gym invites you to exercise or play family games, the private massage room offers relaxation, and the green garden provides space to romp and explore. The rooftop terrace serves sometimes as a stage for full moon rituals, sometimes as the setting for a family celebration under the stars.
Personal, loving & family-oriented care
Each villa has its own team: host, chef, housekeeper – always there, but never intrusive. Whether it's a fresh Sri Lankan breakfast, a live seafood BBQ, or a delicious children's menu, the cuisine is a highlight in itself. Those who want to explore further will find inspiration for local excursions, experiences, and favorite spots in the hosts' lovingly curated collection.
What children (and parents) love:
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Jumping into the pool – again and again
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Swinging (and napping!) on the rooftop hammocks
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Creative breaks: jewelry making, safari tours, bicycle trips through rice fields
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Surf lessons on gentle waves – with challenges for advanced surfers nearby.
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Stories under the starry sky or encounters with peacocks and curious monkeys
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And of course: the food.
A retreat with connections – quiet, yet right in the heart of things.
ON Houses is tucked away in a quiet corner of Weligama, offering the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. Within minutes you can reach the heart of the South Coast: Midigama with its laid-back surfer vibe, Ahangama with its trendy cafes and boutiques, or charming Weligama with its long, wave-friendly beaches. And just 25 minutes away is Galle Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial flair and sophisticated concept stores.
Design with soul – a place to stay (or buy?)
ON Houses is the brainchild of a British architect and a Canadian interior designer – both featured in the AD Top 100. Their vision: a place brimming with lightness, style, and warmth for family and friends. The result is a harmonious blend of Swahili arches, Arabic lines, and Sri Lankan textures, combined with hand-picked objects and custom-made furniture.
And for those who fall in love with this refuge not only as a guest, but also as an owner: Two of the three villas could soon be available.
Is ON Houses the right choice for your family?
If you long for a place that combines tranquility, style, and a feeling of home – then yes. For families who travel consciously, value design, and find luxury in simplicity, ON Houses is a dream destination that you never quite cross off your bucket list – until you finally experience it.
Visit the On Houses Weligama website
Looking for more travel tips for Sri Lanka with kids? Then my Sri Lanka with Kids Travel Guide might be just what you need! Here you'll find tons of activities, the best beaches, restaurants and accommodations, as well as general helpful tips for traveling to Sri Lanka with children: to the Sri Lanka with Kids Travel Guide