Hidden away along dirt roads, about 10km inland from Bentota, the Brief Garden is a barely controlled riot of greenery, surrounding the eccentric, bohemian house of Bevis Bawa, brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. This was once a rubber plantation, before the owner set to work creating a fantasy garden on the estate. After wandering the lovely grounds you'll be led around the house, preserved much as its former owner left it when he died in 1992.
An enthusiastic artist and collector, Bevis filled his home with interesting artworks and functional objects, many inspired by the nude male form. He also hosted a string of high society house guests, including Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, Agatha Christie, and Australian artist Donald Friend, who came for a weekend and stayed for six years.
To get here follow the Mathugama road inland from Aluthgama and turn left just past Dharga Town. Follow the road and turn right just before the large white mosque, then after 1.5km look out for the sign saying "Brief," where a winding dirt track on the right will eventually lead you to the garden. A three-wheeler will cost around Rs 1000 return from Aluthgama.
