Where to stay in Sri Lanka
Wildlife enthusiasts may wish to consider some of the tented safari camps that can be found in the national parks and which put you in the heart of the action, or try out some mobile camping for the ultimate authentic adventure. Many converted colonial houses and tea estates are bursting with character, whilst more boutique guest houses and beach retreats provide the ultimate in relaxation.
1. The Wallawwa
The Wallawwa is a luxurious boutique hotel located just 15 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The hotel is set amidst tropical gardens and offers a peaceful and relaxing oasis for travellers. Accommodation at The Wallawwa consists of 17 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed with a blend of contemporary and colonial style. All rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, air conditioning, a mini bar, and a private bathroom with luxury amenities. The hotel offers a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving delicious Sri Lankan and international cuisine. The hotel also has a bar and lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy a drink. The Wallawwa is ideally located for those looking to explore Colombo and its surroundings. The hotel can arrange tours and activities, such as city tours, visits to nearby temples and tea plantations, and even hot air balloon rides.
2. Mahoora Safari Camps
Set in numerous prominent wildlife parks, with a choice of Premium or Elite options, Mahoora’s innovative safari camps and professional camping service have Sri Lanka covered. With highly trained staff willing and able to find exciting and unusual attractions, it’s a great chance to get up close and personal with nature for an unforgettable and authentic camping experience. Under the stars, away from the pollution of cities, the camps all vary in standard and size, moving around Sri Lanka’s National Parks, jungles and villages. Camps are mobile and cover some of the best wildlife destinations in Asia; some of the most popular destinations are Bundala National Park (a paradise for birders), Dembana Village (offering a chance to meet to meet the indigenous Vedda people) and the lush forests and classic range of wildlife in Wasgamuwa National Park. Activities vary depending on which camp you are staying in, varying from game drives and visits to the local villages to mountain biking, caving, nature trails and rock climbing!
3. Water Gardens Sigiriya
With Sigiriya Rock and a lush countryside as its backdrop, Water Garden Sigiriya offers a spa and wellness centre and a fitness centre. The resort has an outdoor pool and offers views of the pool. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property and free private parking is available on site. The spacious villas are air-conditioned. A large living area offers pristine. Guests can have a walk in the deck and have a dip in the private plunge pool. All units include a private bathroom with a spa bath, with others have bath robes and slippers. The hotel’s aquatic landscaping mirrors the ancient water gardens of Sigiriya. As first impressions go, the view of the fortress, framed from the minimalist reception building, is impressive, though you’d expect nothing less from Channa Daswatta, a leading Lankan Tropical Modernist architect and famous protégé of the late Geoffrey Bawa. The villas, restaurant, bar and spa all stand alone and overlook the interlinked ponds, and there is a vast amount of space for guests to spread out – this is particularly useful given the hotel’s excellent suitability for both honeymooning couples and those with children in tow.
4. 98 Acres
Situated amongst the scenic landscapes of the Sri Lankan hill country, 98 Acres is a boutique spa resort set within its own 98 acre tea estate. Guests stay in chalets made of mostly recycled materials, with their thatched roofs and rough-hewn granite walls adding to the resorts rustic atmosphere. There are a variety of room types available at 98 acres, including six standard rooms, three superior rooms, 12 premium deluxe rooms and three honeymoon deluxe rooms, as well as the exclusive Greenland Suite. Rooms are located in the rustic thatched-roof chalets that are scattered across the resort. Bright and spacious, all rooms are decorated in a rustic yet elegant style, with large balconies that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and Little Adam's Peak. Superior rooms have their own private lounge area and veranda from which to watch the sun rise over the tea plantations, and the Greenland Suite is equipped with a kitchen and cooking facilities. The resort also has a large outdoor pool and fully equipped gym, as well as the onsite spa which offers treatments made from tea and herbal plants grown on the estate itself. There is also a helipad, with helicopter transfers to and from the airport available with advance booking.
5. Chena Huts
Chena Huts is a luxurious eco-friendly resort located in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka. The resort consists of 14 individual cabins, each with its own private plunge pool and outdoor deck. The cabins are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, and are built using sustainable materials such as bamboo and thatched roofs. The resort offers a range of activities, including game drives through the national park, birdwatching, and nature walks. The Yala National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. The resort also offers spa treatments and has a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine. Chena Huts is owned and operated by Uga Escapes, a Sri Lankan hospitality company that focuses on sustainable tourism. The resort has won several awards for its eco-friendly initiatives, including the World Travel Award for Sri Lanka's Leading Eco-Lodge in 2019.