After a period of turmoil, this beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean south of India is back - and so is tourism, which offers visitors an appealing menu of breathtaking island of beaches, rainforests, mountains, exquisitely spiced cuisine, historic sites, ecotourism oases, and friendly locals. There´s a wide range of accommodation to choose from, including a good number of luxury resorts spread out across the island´s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to misty hillsides, the rugged wilderness of national parks or stunning ocean views, there’s a luxury resort that’s just right for you. While it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few, here are five surefire stars:
Cape Weligama
Located on a dozen acres high on the cliffs of the southern coast, just outside the cool beach town of Merissa and just a half hour from historic Galle, Relais & Château collection of 39 suites and villas (top) offers arguably some of the country´s best ocean views, especially, from its many pools (two main ones plus a number of smaller ones serving clusters of villas). The resort provides access to nearby cove beaches; the restaurant focuses on local cuisine, with seafood front and center, and other amenities include a gym and spa and butler services.
Envision a steamy soak in an outdoor hot tub while taking in misty front-row views of surrounding tea plantation and lake from one of the hillside restored tea planter´s bungalows in a central-highlands "hill station" at 1,250 meters (4,100 feet) above sea level, which in addition to tea cultivation was once a favoured retreat of the colonial British to escape the summer heat of capital Colombo. Also affiliated with R&C, it has in addition to the five bungalows 22 rooms and suites, along with a pool, delicious dining, and curated guest experiences including tea field and factory tours, as well as cooking classes, nearby lake cruises and kayaking, and more.
Also atop a south coast cliff overlooking the ocean, except at the fringes of the Yala National Park, among other things this resort in its all-inclusive rates offers a daily game drive catch glimpses of elephants and a range of other creatures including the prized Sri Lankan leopard in their natural habitat. It consists of just 18 spacious cabins camuflaged to blend into the scenery and featuring their very own plunge pools, as well as a top-flight restaurant.
Experience the heritage charms of Galle at this onetime merchant’s home, a 17th-century townhouse which masterfully marries contemporary comfort in its elegant premises and 18 rooms and suites to an immaculately restored historic flavor as well as a prime location inside the fort that anchors the city´s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Other amenities include a trio of Balinese-style spa treatment rooms and cuisine that´s a mix of Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern.
Nestled in the northern-central countryside of the "Cultural Triangle" a short drive away from the ancient city of Anuradhapura, this 28-villa property promises a quiet retreat amidst picturesque paddy fields as well as easy access to nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bask in luxurious comfort in your private pool after a day spent exploring ancient ruins; enjoy sessions of archery, cycling, kayaking and horseback riding on 58 acres; luxuriate in world-class spa treatmenst; and end each day with a delivious and scenic meal laid out amidst the paddy fields.
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