Victoria Golf Resort

Situated on the scenic shores of the Victoria Reservoir, just a 45-minute drive from the bustle of Kandy, and 3 and half hour drive from Colombo the Victoria Golf Resort is more than just a gateway to its famous fairway; it is a tranquil sanctuary designed to immerse guests in the raw beauty of the Knuckles Mountain Range. While the golf course is its crown jewel, the resort itself stands as a destination of quiet luxury, offering a blend of colonial charm and modern comfort that appeals to nature lovers and solitude seekers alike.

The accommodation at the resort is designed to maximize privacy and views, scattered across the 517-acre estate rather than clustered in a single hotel block. Guests can choose from a variety of stays, ranging from private villas to more intimate chalets. The architecture generally reflects a “planter’s bungalow” aesthetic – airy, spacious, and seamlessly connected to the outdoors. Many of the villas, such as the Sunrise Ridge Villas, offer sweeping panoramic views where guests can watch the mist roll off the reservoir from their private terrace.

Life at the resort centers around the Clubhouse and the Araliya Restaurant, the primary dining venue. Here, the experience is defined by al fresco dining overlooking the 18th green and the water beyond. The menu offers a mix of international staples and fiery Sri Lankan curries, best enjoyed as the sun sets behind the mountains. For a more relaxed evening, the bar provides a classic “19th hole” atmosphere, where stories of the day’s play are exchanged over gin and tonics.

Beyond the greens, the resort is surprisingly active. The infinity swimming pool is a highlight, seemingly spilling over into the landscape. Unique to Victoria is its Saddle Club, which offers horse riding lessons and trail rides through the coconut groves. Guests can also enjoy kayaking on the tranquil Victoria Reservoir – a rare amenity among Sri Lankan resorts. Additional facilities include tennis courts, marked nature trails guided by a resident naturalist for spotting endemic birdlife, and mountain bikes for exploring the rugged terrain of Digana.

Ultimately, the Victoria Golf Resort is a retreat where the pace of life slows down. It captures the essence of the “up-country” experience – cool breezes, lush greenery, and a profound sense of isolation from the modern world.