Quite outrageous, extraordinary, eclectic and flamboyant are just some of the words that have been used to describe Helga's Folly. There are, genuinely, few places in the world like this hotel, set in the leafy Kandy hills above the famous lake and Temple of the Tooth. Helga's Folly is run by Helga de Silva Blow Perera, the wonderfully anglicised Sri Lankan daughter of local diplomats. The hotel was her childhood home. The 40 rooms are awash with colour. Silk flowers and Christmas tree baubles sit alongside enormous murals, Hindu icons and family portraits of Helga's family. 
When in residence Helga and her husband Desmond are amusing and gracious hosts providing lots of local colour and some outrageous "tongue in cheek" stories.We like this place. It is idiosyncratic and definitely different but suitable for imaginative open minded travellers be they couples or families. It's a good base for exploring the Buddhist temples in Town and surrounding hills. Although the bedrooms aren't nearly as splendid as the common and dining rooms, waking up with Sri Lankan sunshine filtering through the batik curtains is a pleasure. The rooms are large, bare floored with throw rugs, four poster beds (some modern, some old) with black mosquito nets and ceiling fans. There are old desks and sofas in most rooms and all feature balconies, but don't expect any mod-cons like a TV or minibar. At night, the staff not only turn down your sheets but also scatter your pillow with flowers. En suite bathrooms throughout are simple, with loo, bidet and shower, though far from luxurious by Western standards. They feature good lighting and mirrors, as well as 24 hour hot and cold water. There are 40 bedrooms, but to retain a family atmosphere, Helga prefers her hotel not to be fully booked (and they don't take bookings for tour groups). Nice gardens and a good sized swimming pool with sun loungers make this a perfect base from which to explore or just relax. |
