Near the pilgrimage site of Kataragama, close to Yala game park in Sri Lanka's south-east lies Galapita Eco Retreat, on the banks of the Gem River. What began as an idealistic rural retreat for friends and family is now the ultimate escapist retreat for a small selection of independent travellers. Life can hardly be more natural than this.

Across Galapita bridge, your world may change. Your bedroom on stilts will be one of four huts perched on the rocks by the river. It will have a straw roof, bamboo walls, a futon bed, mosquito nets and a little driftwood furniture, nothing much else. It might be the Tree House that peers over paddy fields. Galapita is one of the island's best hideaways, a property blessed with a stunningly beautiful location and a relaxed atmosphere. If you need to unwind and recharge away from the stresses of modern world then this is the place for you. Families, too, will love Galapita because the surrounding countryside will keep children enthralled for hours. However, children aged under eight should be watched carefullt because of the river. Galapita only offers vegetarian food but the rice and curries are mouthwateringly good.

A washing area for each hut possesses flushing toilets and showers. Solar power. The bedrooms are open and natural, furnished with comfy mattresses and bed linen and cooled by the night breeze. The sights and sounds of natural life. Food is predominantly Sri Lankan made with the freshest ingredients, perhaps picked from the garden or fished in the river. Activities: Jungle treks, birdwatching, elephant watching, cycling, river bathing, tyre-tubing (sailing downstream wedged in a tyre!... get the jeep back), plus a host of nearby cultural sites, including Kataragama, one of the holiest towns in the island. The Kirinda gate for Yala Park is about 1.5 hours drive away but a new gate closer to Galapita is being opened and this will make the property well-positioned to cater to those wanting to visit Yala.