Beautiful Sri Lanka, a teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, is amongst the world’s most dazzling destinations. Lush mountains, misty tea-clad hills and fascinating ancient cities characterise the island’s interior. The coast is fringed by golden beaches, often within easy reach of spectacular national parks brimming with wildlife. Guesthouses, hotels and resorts range from chic boutique boltholes to gorgeous beachfront hotels and swish design-led hideaways — all with famously warm and welcoming teams. Whether you’re dreaming of an arts and culture-focused city break, a rejuvenating wellness escape, or a fun-filled family holiday, Sri Lanka really does have it all.
Begin your explorations in Colombo, the country’s commercial capital. Expect great shopping, impressive heritage buildings and a lively arts scene. Next, head inland by road or rail to discover the temples, palaces and ancient ruins of Dambulla, Sigiriya and Anuradhapura — a region known collectively as the Cultural Triangle. Scenic train journeys into the mountains of the Hill Country are marvellous, with opportunities to trek through tea estates and colourful villages on the Pekoe Trail, to kayak on age-old reservoirs, or simply soak up gorgeous views from the terraces of tea bungalows.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find abundant birdlife in vast national parks, where elephants gather, leopards slink through the last of the afternoon light, and rarely seen sloth bears hide. Coastal gems like the charming fortified town of Galle or bustling Trincomalee offer a fascinating insight into the island’s history — whilst its contemporary buzz is felt at the popular surf towns of Ahangama, Weligama and Arugam Bay. This really is a magical island of endless experiences — and the best places to stay in Sri Lanka are very special.
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Colombo (Sri Lanka)
A five-bedroom B&B above one of Colombo's most popular cafés. Airy, whitewashed guest rooms have crisp linens, rattan lampshades and thoughtful touches including wooden desks & lovely plants. Famed for its fresh cuisine, Café Kumbuk is a hive of activity in a trendy part of the city. Charming.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
Centrally located with colourful interiors - add to this an attractive price and Cinnamon Red attracts a fun, young crowd. Rooms are decorated with splashes of the hotel's signature red and feature good sized modern bathrooms. Cuisine is top notch including adaptations of Sri Lankan dishes.
Kandy (Sri Lanka)
A collection of simple, contemporary chalets, cottages & villas on the edge of the award-winning Victoria Golf Course. Groups of friends & families can pile in to airy spaces with private terraces & lush garden views. A swimming pool & restaurant complete the picture. Great value
Kandy (Sri Lanka)
Basil Fawlty meets Kubla Khan in Helga Blow’s decadent chic home. A red 1930s building surrounded by jungle. Dark muralled rooms full of historical paintings, photographs and antiques. Home cooked food and a well stocked bar. A truly eccentric stay that should be on everyone's 'to visit' list.
Ahangama (Sri Lanka)
An elegant 4-bedroom villa in leafy gardens near to Ahangama's superb Secret Beach. Interiors are airy & understated, with four-poster beds, shaded terraces, polished concrete floors & blue-painted doorways. A swimming pool, friendly team & superb cuisine all add to the chic, laid-back appeal.
Ahangama (Southern Province)
A gorgeous 1950s villa framed by swaying palm trees & grassy gardens with a swimming pool in buzzy Ahangama. Four whitewashed bedrooms have wrought-iron four-posters, indoor-outdoor bathrooms & thoughtful touches. Hearty breakfasts are served each morning. A boutique gem.
Galle (Boossa)
A Balinese-inspired oasis of tangled vines and soothing earthy tones, located within easy reach of Galle Fort. Spacious interiors are simply styled with four posters and polished cement bathrooms. Expect a superb spa and fabulous food thrown in!
Galle (Sri Lanka)
A painstakingly restored heritage home set in historic Galle. Chic design throughout reflects the property's Moorish roots with delicate detailing found in carefully placed tiles, mosaic cushions and pendant lamps. A luxury spa and exemplary restaurant make this the ideal retreat.
Tangalle
Simple yet chic this unassuming little cluster of wooden cottages has been welcoming guests for years. Ideal for travellers or couples on a budget, seeking some relaxation. There is a popular bar where guests congregate plus a beach restaurant serving tasty Sri Lankan dishes. Great value.
Tangalle
A stunning historic building, turned luxury adults only resort in the jungles and paddy fields near Tangalle. The three private villas offer a romantic and luxurious retreat, while the main house oozes colonial charm from its seating and dining areas littered with antiques and leather-bound books.
Talpe (Sri Lanka)
A chic boutique property set on a quiet stretch of beach. Design is traditional throughout with high beamed ceilings and whirring fans set besides cool contemporary touches such as the luxurious open plan bathrooms. A place of rejuvenation to unwind with a drink and a good book.
Talpe (Mihiripenne)
Boasting 180° views of crashing Indian Ocean waves, Sielen Diva is a striking cubist villa, perfectly poised for spectacular sunsets.
Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)
A simple five-bedroom retreat on one acre of sandy gardens bordering Kalpitiya Lagoon. Think thatched cabanas with mosquito net-topped beds, outdoor bathrooms for showers under the stars & a refreshing swimming pool. The seaside yoga shala & wellness-focused cuisine add to the tranquil appeal.
Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)
Luxurious tented beach accommodation specialising in dolphin trips and water sports. Nine eclectic tents are dotted around luscious grounds and there are plenty of chic, shady lounge areas to relax. There is a tasty Sri Lankan à la carte menu but chef Nalin is happy to take requests.