Accommodation

Treat Yourself Plus

When Only the Best Will Do

You will stay somewhere extraordinary when you choose the accommodation in our Treat Yourself Plus category. Nothing is left to chance at these top-of-the-range properties, which means the quality of rooms, service, cuisine, gardens and location is second to none. Attention to detail and anticipating your every whim are delivered effortlessly, and the only regret will be that you didn’t stay longer!

Many of our Maldives resorts are Treat Yourself Plus accommodation. Sri Lanka also has its fair share of exceptional places to stay and more are being developed every year, although currently we do not offer Treat Yourself Plus accommodation in the North and East. Below are outline details of sample Treat Yourself Plus accommodation. For more details, click on Trip Planner and log in for photos and in-depth descriptions of the accommodation available.

Price Band:

GBP 400+

Saman Villas

Bentota

Magnificently situated on a rocky headland dividing two unspoilt, surf-swept beaches and backed by dense coconut plantations, relax in the lap of luxury, cool off in the infinity swimming pool, and enjoy the superb food and attentive service.

Aditya

Galle

Acknowledged as one of Sri Lanka’s finest and most distinctive all-suite boutique hotels, Aditya’s beachfront location is enhanced by individually decorated and furnished luxury suites, each with a plunge/lap pool or Jacuzzi, as well as a relaxed and refined atmosphere.

Taru Villas - The Yala Lodge

Yala

Chic oasis in the jungle surrounded by traditional Chena farms and immersed in a garden redolent with bird calls and resident peacocks performing their courting displays. The two-bedroom luxury villa has open-air living areas, King-size beds, air conditioning, pool, and Wi-Fi.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge

Yala

Spectacular luxury tented camp situated in a stunning location where the jungle meets a rugged, empty beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean. The unique design and use of carefully selected natural materials allows the man-made structures to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Ahaspokuna Bush Walks Camp

Belihuloya

Sri Lanka's first, all-suite, luxury, private bush walks camp immersed in 900 hectares of pristine wilderness that was created by merging an historical hideout and a protected forest. Bespoke jungle treks with local trackers are a unique experience in Sri Lanka.

Clingendael

Digana

Ultra-luxury boutique hotel with a Dutch colonial era aesthetic set on the Victoria Golf and Country Resort estate with only five gigantic suites, dark wood finishes and sturdy furniture. The spacious veranda and wrap-around garden have far-reaching views of the Knuckles Mountain Range.

Serene Pavilions

Wadduwa

The height of luxury and decadence in an elegantly landscaped tropical garden with views through a beachfront palm grove to the Indian Ocean beyond. The exceptionally spacious and exclusive Balinese-styled pavilions have private gardens, plunge pools and personal Butler service.

View out from a Mahoora Elite tent, Sri Lanka

Mahoora Elite Wilpattu

Wilpattu

All-inclusive tented safari camp experience in a private 3-hectare jungle sanctuary near Wilpattu National Park, the island’s largest wildlife reserve. The camp combines dry zone wilderness with luxurious contemporary outdoor living where elephants, jungle cats and barking deer roam free.

Uga Ulagalla

Thirappane

Once a chieftain’s manorial seat, Uga Ulagalla features a 150-year-old mansion at its centre, with 20 private, ecologically-built pool villas spread around an extensive, naturally landscaped estate. With a solar farm generating half of its energy requirements, Ulagalla is truly a unique boutique hotel.

32 Middle Street

Galle

Sensitively refurbished 17th century Dutch colonial-era villa designed to celebrate its past while highlighting the present. This comfy family home features three en suite bedrooms, spacious living and dining areas, a sit-in veranda, and courtyard pool, and it is serviced by full-time staff.

Camellia Hills

Dickoya

Live the life of a modern-day tea planter at Camellia Hills, a luxurious five-bedroom boutique bungalow in the western Hill Country. From its verdant valley-side perch, views of the mirror-still Castlereagh Reservoir and surrounding tea-wrapped hills are spectacular.

Goatfell

Nuwara Eliya

Perched amongst tea bushes amidst the Concordia Estate, high up on a hill near Nuwara Eliya, Goatfell is a luxurious renovated four-bedroom tea bungalow hotel. This former estate manager’s bungalow still resonates with the warmth and upcountry charm of a bygone era.

Mahoora Premium Wilpattu

Wilpattu

Set by a lake inhabited by colourful birds and butterflies and surrounded by bush forest where elephants, jungle cats and barking deer roam free, the private all-inclusive tented safari camp is just 10 minutes’ drive from Wilpattu National Park, the island’s largest wildlife reserve.

Uga Chena Huts

Yala

Overlooking a beach where sea-turtles come to lay eggs by moonlight and elephants wander down from the nearby jungle to play in the surf, Uga Chena Huts is a luxury boutique hotel nestling among dunes and trees at the ocean’s edge.

Leopard Safaris Yala by KK Collection

Yala

Boutique blend of wilderness camping and an award-winning safari provider, renowned for the personalised service, expert guides and luxurious facilities. Popular with couples and families, the eco-friendly camp engages the senses and ensures that you are as comfortably close to nature as possible.

Reef Villa

Wadduwa

An exotic luxury beachfront hideaway immersed in a lush tropical garden, Reef has an intimate ambiance and serene, harmonious spaces, which imbue a feeling of relaxed opulence. To maintain the romance and privacy, there are only seven elegant suites.

Nine Skies

Ella

Promising far-reaching hill country views, this stylishly refurbished tea planter’s bungalow is majestically perched on a hilltop near Ella. Dating from the British colonial era, the five-bedroom tea estate bungalow epitomises its legacy yet indulges guests with contemporary facilities and personalised service.

Mahoora Elite Yala

Yala

This luxury campsite borders Sri Lanka’s principal national park and it is set up as a mini nature reserve for resident wildlife as well as a jungle sanctuary for families, couples and wildlife enthusiasts looking for adventure in the great outdoors.

Ceylon Tea Trails

Hatton

The world’s first tea bungalow resort, which incorporates five luxuriously upgraded, colonial era tea planter residencies around Castlereagh Reservoir in the Bogawantalawa valley in the western Hill Country, and offers one of the most decadent and extraordinary experiences on the island.

Mahoora Premium Yala

Yala

The campsite spans four hectares of private dry zone forest, bordering the elephant fence of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s principal wildlife reserve. The campsite includes a picturesque pond with tall reeds and pathways home to giant squirrels, birds, butterflies and reptiles.

Kulu Safaris

Yala

Pioneer of mobile tented safari camps in Sri Lanka, Kulu Safaris combines professional naturalists, luxurious camping facilities and exclusive surroundings in the protected ‘buffer zone’ of Yala National Park. It’s a jungle out there…

Wilpattu Safari Camp

Wilpattu

All-inclusive safari campsite adjacent to Wilpattu National Park owned and run by a team of conservationists, nature lovers and wildlife photographers who will endeavour to make your safari a very enjoyable and knowledgeable experience. Come and indulge yourself in “A Piece of Heaven”!

Taru Villas - Villa 906

Hikkaduwa

Small is beautiful at this perfect beach hideaway and the private seaside bungalow makes the beach even better. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a stay with friends, this boutique beauty allows you to soak in seclusion and sunshine.

Cape Weligama

Weligama

Atop a landscaped promontory overlooking the ocean, stunning panoramas naturally complement the artfully designed private retreats while an array of dining venues and the infinity pool capture the iconic sunsets – paradise regained!

Treat Yourself

Exclusive Quality Accommodation

Authentic walauwas (mansion villas), boutique hotels, colonial-era bungalows, sumptuous suites and beachside villas are all on offer in our Treat Yourself range. Luxurious living that won’t break the bank and a real flair for providing exclusive quality accommodation combine to ensure an unforgettable stay.

Our Treat Yourself accommodation is available throughout Sri Lanka (except the North) and Maldives. Below are outline details of sample Treat Yourself accommodation. For more details, click on Trip Planner and log in for photos and in-depth descriptions of the accommodation available.

Price Band:

GBP 300 - 400

The Kandy House

Kandy

A charming and an historic Burger raj colonial estate bungalow dating back to 1804 and sensitively restored to its previous grandeur. This stunning manor house has individually designed rooms and lush tropical gardens, with a secluded forest pool, envelope the property.

Stafford Bungalow

Nuwara Eliya

Built in 1884 by a pioneering Scottish tea planter to take advantage of the best views in the area, a significant restoration and renovation have updated the bungalow with modern day facilities and introduced a fresh new style to the property.

Uga Bay

Passikudah

Uga Bay delivers perfectly calibrated luxuries for those who need to kick-back and relax with the sand between their toes. Situated on the beachfront of one of the most attractive beaches in Sri Lanka, the resort's architecture is contemporary tropical fused with a Mediterranean theme set amidst swaying palms.

Water Garden Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Luxury hotel and spa emulating the ingenious and innovative design of the famous 5th century water gardens of Sigiriya, which is within eye shot. Thirty freestanding and over-sized villas, many with private plunge pools, are artfully dotted around the landscaped estate.

The Dutch House

Galle

Stunning Dutch colonial villa built in 1712 and fully restored with four luxurious and exquisitely decorated suites, a soothing lounge, a treetop infinity pool, and an English tropical garden complete with croquet lawn affording views over Galle and the Indian Ocean beyond.

The Fortress Resort and Spa

Koggala

Fashioned in the form of a powerful fortress, hence its name, this luxury hotel’s architecture imitates historic Dutch and Portuguese styles with the motifs of Sri Lanka. Rising next to the beach, the rampart-like walls enclose verdant gardens and water features.

Kumu Beach

Balapitiya

Beneath gently swaying coconut palms on a serene boulder-sprinkled seafront sits Kumu Beach, a contemporary beach hotel home to 10 generous bedrooms, chic living and dining areas basking in the open air, and a generous lawn with infinity swimming pool.

Kalundewa Retreat

Dambulla

Luxury retreat immersed in 40 hectares of lush countryside with a dramatic mountain backdrop. Set in beautiful natural surroundings designed to soothe the senses, the eclectic abodes have fine interiors and cosy comforts as well as features such as a plunge pool or Jacuzzi.

Uga Jungle Beach

Kuchchaveli

Luxury beach resort immersed in a forest nestled between the azure Indian Ocean and a lagoon teeming with exotic bird life on the tranquil and untrammelled east coast. This exclusive eco-retreat offers luxurious cabins surrounded by sandy beaches, mangroves and lagoons.

Kahanda Kanda

Galle

Hilltop luxury boutique hotel overlooking Koggala Lake and immersed in a tea estate with breath-taking views over the surrounding countryside. KK is a very special place to stay inland and off the beaten track whilst still within easy reach of Galle and beautiful beaches.

Le Grand Galle

Galle

Asia Leisure’s biggest and boldest project so far, this brand new hotel sits on the ocean’s edge overlooking the Fort. If you are looking for an ultra-modern luxury spa hotel rather than a heritage villa in the Galle area then this may be for you.

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Sigiriya

Eco-luxury resort amidst a nature reserve of five distinct habitats, the purpose-built wetland and flourishing landscape in the shadow of Sigiriya’s ancient rock fortress has been crafted to enchant – Vil Uyana, or “Garden of Lakes”, is a tribute to the region’s agrarian ancestors.

The Wallawwa

Kotugoda

Nestled within extensive and beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, The Wallawwa is the unrivalled choice for a stylish stay close to the international airport. This colonial manor house is a private and secluded luxury hideaway for the perfect beginning or end to your holiday.

Taru Villas - The Long House

Bentota

Lavish living, refined style and sumptuous interiors combine perfectly to conjure an exclusive and unforgettable escape at this private, all-inclusive villa, with its ten luxuriously appointed bedrooms and living spaces, which offers a winning formula for total relaxation and indulgence.

Tri

Koggala Lake

Contemporary in design and sustainable by nature, this unique luxury hotel on the shores of Koggala Lake is within easy reach of Galle and the attractive south coast beaches. Overlooking Sri Lanka’s largest natural lake, 11 suites spiral a 2.5-hectare hill of outstanding natural beauty.

Distinguished

For an Extra Special Stay

Our Distinguished category includes a wide variety of styles of accommodation from traditional adobe-clad huts with palm leaf roofs and former tea planter’s bungalows to iconic hotels and colonial villas. This is one of the key benefits of travelling in Sri Lanka since the island has an extra special place to stay to satisfy everyone’s taste and requirements.

We currently offer Distinguished accommodation in all regions of Sri Lanka, with the exception of the North. Below are outline details of sample Distinguished accommodation. For more details, click on Trip Planner and log in for photos and in-depth descriptions of the accommodation available.

Price Band:

GBP 200 - 300

The Elephant Stables

Kandy

An historic colonial-era bungalow lovingly restored with a combination of original period furniture and chic interiors that complement the ambience of an authentic Ceylon Planter’s estate. This hilltop boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a swimming pool and occasionally a resident elephant in the garden!

The River House

Balapitiya

Originally created by Taru and inspired by traditional South Asian designs, The River House is a romantic escape that offers five unique suites on over five hectares of a lush tropical garden estate in perfect seclusion on the banks of the Madu Ganga.

Ellerton

Kandy

A home-away-from-home set high in the hills outside of Kandy, Ellerton is a characterful and tranquil colonial-era tea plantation bungalow imbuing an informal and relaxed country house atmosphere and surrounded by extensive, well-tended gardens with panoramic views of the spectacular northern Hill Country landscape.

Jetwing Kaduruketha

Wellawaya

Escape to the south-eastern foothills of the central highlands, comfortably secluded in an atmosphere of traditional agro-luxury. Nestled in the midst of lush paddy fields, the resort has been designed to resemble a traditional village surrounded by rural Sri Lankan landscapes.

41 Lighthouse Street

Galle

Sensitively renovated 17th century Dutch colonial-era villa retaining its heritage with huge open arches, exposed beams, and black and white chequered floors. The villa has a walled internal courtyard bedecked with lush tropical vegetation surrounding a crystal-clear pool and terrace.

The Rainforest Ecolodge

Sinharaja

Tucked away in the wilderness of Sinharaja Forest Reserve and seamlessly blending sophisticated luxury with a comfortable immersion in nature, global award-winning The Rainforest Ecolodge is designed to minimise its impact on the environment through a closely managed sustainable development.

Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge

Knuckles

Eco lodges scattered over a terraced hillside tea estate and centred on a faux tea planter’s bungalow encircled by a colonnaded veranda furnished with reclining ’steamer’ chairs and a large swimming pool affording possibly one of the finest views anywhere on the island.

Heritance Kandalama

Dambulla

First luxury eco-hotel built in Asia and designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary architect, it is set in its own 250-hectare jungle retreat with unimpeded views across wetlands to Lion Rock at Sigiriya.

Scottish Planter Glendevon Bungalow

Nuwara Eliya

Built in the 1880s for a pioneer of tea in Sri Lanka, the bungalow is incredibly well preserved with original features throughout. In keeping with the Scottish laird heritage of the owners, the architecture is reminiscent of a hunting lodge in the wilds of Hibernia.

Uga Residence

Colombo

Unique and historic 11-suite luxury hotel in a secluded central Colombo location exuding an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity nestled between leafy Park Street and the lakeside Buddhist shrine of Gangaramaya - a delicate balance of old Sri Lanka and modern luxury.

Amaya Langdale

Nuwara Eliya

Surrounded by the verdant velveteen slopes of the ubiquitous tea plantations, this extended colonial-era property close to Nanu Oya railway station offers 13 comfortable bedrooms with modern facilities as well as an old world charm of days of yore.

KK Beach

Habaraduwa

Contemporary and stylish beachfront boutique hotel with just ten rooms and suites overlooking a beach that stretches as far as the eye can see and the Indian Ocean beyond. A chic south coast alternative offering delicious food and comfortable accommodation.

Amaya Signature

Dambulla

Nestled under the shade of towering trees and located on the edge of Kandalama Lake, Amaya Signature, listed by Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is a tranquil and peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger resorts.

Lunuganga

Bentota

The house and gardens at Lunuganga were lovingly created over several decades by the world renowned architect, Geoffrey Bawa, as his vision of a tropical garden idyll. Lunuganga offers you the opportunity to stay in an unequalled heritage property.

Calamansi Cove Villas by Jetwing

Balapitiya

Idyllically tucked away in a secluded sandy cove of Balapitiya Beach, this peaceful and adult-oriented twelve villa boutique resort is hidden amongst Calamansi fruit trees and swaying palms at the edge of the calm, warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Yathra Houseboat by Jetwing

Bentota

The quintessential Kerala houseboat experience – in Sri Lanka! The island’s first backwaters houseboat cruise and accommodation. The chance to enjoy a cruise along the Bentara River, with dinner under the stars and breakfast upon the open deck in the sun.

Taru Villas - Rampart Street

Galle

Recently restored and sensitively renovated four-bedroom villa boutique hotel with an elegant combination of antique charm and modern amenities. A powerful design aesthetic weaves together the spirit of the old world, the magic of nature and the luxuries of today.

The Oliphant Bungalow

Nuwara Eliya

Spectacularly placed within extensive tea gardens and surrounded by mountains, this refurbished 19th century tea estate bungalow retains the genuine air of a typical rustic English cottage despite being nestled in the countryside around Shanthipura, Sri Lanka’s highest elevated village.

Flameback Eco Lodge

Weerawila

Nestled within a bird sanctuary amongst lush vegetation alongside tranquil Weerawila Lake, the luxury ‘glamping’ tented lodges allow guests to be immersed in nature and the great outdoors without losing an element of luxury or comfort.

The Last House

Tangalle

The final private project of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary architect, is located on a curve of a gorgeous pristine sandy bay. With barely another soul to be seen, this is a destination for relaxing in tranquillity beside the ocean.

The Villa Bentota

Bentota

Sensitively converted 19th century colonial manor house and Sri Lanka’s first boutique hotel, designed by Geoffrey Bawa. The updated and expanded villa is true to the original Bawa aesthetic, with soothing palettes complimenting the Dutch chandeliers, Jaffna folk art and Chinese ceramics.

Jetwing Lighthouse

Galle

Luxury hotel and spa designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary architect, offering world-class accommodation and facilities, and al fresco dining in superb surroundings. The overall architecture creates an atmosphere resembling Moorish palaces, ocean liners, manor houses and colonial villas.

Strathdon by Jetwing

Watawala

Step back in time and wake up to the charms of living the life of a tea planter in the early 1900s. The colonial ambience of the bungalow is preserved today in the elegant décor, the modest luxury and the warm, deferential service.

Craig Appin by Jetwing

Dickoya

Once the home of a Scottish planter and now reborn as a luxury upcountry escape, this 19th century tea bungalow indulges the senses while imbuing a stateliness and grandeur from a bygone colonial era. Make yourself at home in five luxurious rooms of old-world charm.

Maniumpathy

Colombo

Luxurious boutique hotel set in a magnificently restored heritage home in the heart of Colombo and surrounded by galleries, boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants and monuments. Take a dip in the pool, relax in the library or enjoy a cup of tea in the garden courtyard.

Taru Villas - The Muse

Bentota

The Muse is another iconic bijou hotel designed by Taru, an enigmatic and truly creative designer of all things stylish. It is the reincarnation of Taru’s first property, Taprobana, which originally set the benchmark for small, contemporary hotels on the island.

Ubuntu Beach Villas by Lantern

Mirissa

The integrated boutique Ubuntu concept shares the same spirit and feeling as the original Lantern Boutique Hotel close by, creating a relaxed environment and tastefully appointed rooms with private and communal areas for guests to chill out and relax.

Jetwing Surf

Pottuvil

Luxury eco-resort styled on a typical Maldivian island, with high-pitched, grass roofed rondoval cabanas finished in earthen hues and spacious, open-plan interiors. The infinity pool, bar and restaurant overlook a deserted beach with a ‘secret’ surfing breakpoint just off shore.

Lantern Boutique Hotel

Mirissa

The signature hotel of the Lantern group exemplifies the nature and sentiment of the boutique concept. Intimately connecting rooms and private spaces, with communal areas that also encourage interaction, with the freedom to move from one space to another.

Jetwing Kurulubedda

Galle

Jetwing Kurulubedda, or ‘Jungle of Birds’, is a sustainably built, luxury eco-retreat surrounded by paddy fields and hidden amidst foliage on a quiet stretch of the Kepu Ela waterway and 10 minutes inland from its sister property, Jetwing Lighthouse.

The Frangipani Tree

Unawatuna

Combining chic design, impeccable personal service and quality cuisine to create an exquisite beachside experience with an elegant contemporary feel, The Frangipani Tree is an intimate beach sanctuary of nine beautifully furnished suites immersed in an attractively landscaped garden.

Living Heritage

Koslanda

Set in over 30 hectares, this isolated luxury boutique hotel celebrates Sri Lanka’s traditional architectural design and borders a patch of dense woodland known locally as ‘God’s Forest’, which contains a river and a secluded waterfall within walking distance.

Karpaha Sands

Kalkudah

In a fantastic location on 15 km of pristine and deserted sandy shores with only the local fishermen for company, this exclusive, intimate and isolated retreat of just 17 luxury tented suites is where you put down roots for a few days and do not leave.

Boutique 87

Bentota

Designed by legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, Boutique 87 features two suites, a secluded lap pool, magnificent gardens and a private lake. An exceptional specimen of Bawa’s vision of tropical minimalism, interweaving architecture and nature in perfect harmony.

Stone House

Kandy

Built around the 1940s, Stone House, originally called ‘Gal Bangalawa’ (translated as ‘house built of stone’), is a colonial mansion turned boutique hotel in a quiet and secluded location just five minutes’ drive from Kandy city centre.

Sri Sharavi Beach Villas and Spa

Mirissa

Refreshingly modern, yet consciously sustainable, it is the epitome of exclusivity and unique among local boutique hotels. This luxury villa and spa occupies a deceptively large beach side plot with the mesmerising Indian Ocean waves rolling ashore beyond the sparkling swimming pool.

Jetwing Blue

Negombo

Another Jetwing luxury beachside hotel taking the legendary brand of Sri Lankan hospitality to the world from their popular seaside home town. Built where their original villa resided nearly half a century ago, the new hotel provides similar accommodation to Jetwing Beach next door.

Heritance Negombo

Negombo

In the buzzing coastal resort of Negombo, this luxury beachside hotel offers cosy, comfortable and quiet bedrooms with colourful décor to reflect the vibrant surroundings, tranquil spaces to kick back and relax, and a rooftop lounge bar to enjoy the spectacular sunsets.

Boulder Garden

Sinharaja

Set against a lofty mountain backdrop in tranquil jungle surroundings demarcating the tea and paddy terraces in the northern region of Sinharaja Forest Reserve, this all-suite boutique hotel allows you to be close to nature while being indulged in luxury.

Jetwing Beach

Negombo

Named after the coastal landscapes that have drawn travellers here for centuries, this chic and stylish beachfront hotel offers a luxury stay in refined surroundings, which is enhanced by the fusion of Sri Lankan minimalism and modern sustainable architecture.

Thamaravila Wilpattu

Wilpattu

Hidden amongst three hectares of jungle in complete privacy in a sublime natural environment with plentiful birdlife and wildlife, this all-inclusive hideaway is not far from the Wilpattu National Park entrance and consists of five luxury tented chalets set on stilts high above the ground.

Wild Grass Nature Resort

Sigiriya

Eco-boutique hotel with spectacular mountain views, lush jungle ripe for exploration and a tranquil lake frequented by elephants, wild boar, deer, wild rabbits, peacocks, land monitors and more than 40 varieties of birds on the doorstep of secluded luxury villas.

Heritance Tea Factory

Nuwara Eliya

Sensitively converted former tea factory (UNESCO Heritage Award 2001) idyllically situated in the middle of its own tea plantation with superb views of the surrounding spectacular countryside. Magically, the tasteful transformation has retained the essence of the building’s previous life.

Taru Villas - Mawella

Tangalle

An intimate colonial-style villa overlooking the pristine beach and crystal clear waters of tranquil Mawella Bay. The six-bedroom beachside villa set in a generous tropical garden offers a unique experience that respects nature, celebrates privacy and nurtures luxury in equal measure.

Taru Villas - Kurumba

Tangalle

Overlooking picturesque and undeveloped Mawella Bay, this fully serviced villa with resident staff boasts two en suite double bedrooms, a charming garden with a dining pavilion facing the beach and a 9.5-metre long swimming pool at the rear of the property (uniform 1.35-metre depth).

Gal Oya Lodge

Gal Oya

Luxury wildlife lodge constructed from locally-sourced, natural materials and spread over 8 hectares of private jungle with a wonderful mountain backdrop. It is an intimate retreat pioneering environmentally responsible tourism in a new frontier of the island’s burgeoning wildlife sector.

Galle Fort Hotel

Galle

Renovated 17th century Dutch colonial-era villa with delightfully eclectic rooms and suites set around a fabulous colonnaded courtyard swimming pool. The bedrooms evoke a sense of colonial grandeur with their crisp, white bed linen, antique furniture and minimalist styling throughout.

Horathapola Estate

Kandanagedera

Horathapola Estate is an ancestral home immersed in the verdant and fertile countryside of Kurunegala District, an area famed for its coconuts, and one hour's drive from the airport. The two-storey mansion house is impeccably turned out, and overlooks the sparkling swimming pool, Jacuzzi and waterfall feature.

Cinnamon Bey

Beruwela

Luxurious resort overlooking a golden sandy beach and azure blue lagoon safe for swimming during the season. Blending Beruwela’s Moorish heritage with contemporary style and comforts, this 5-star beachfront hotel has extensive, coconut palm-strewn grounds and spacious, well-furnished bedrooms.

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort

Tangalle

Luxury resort spread over a rocky outcrop along a secluded stretch of coastline. Set amidst a coconut plantation and golden crescent shores with glorious Indian Ocean views, the resort offers a naturally exclusive hideaway for exotic beach life in a tranquil world of your own.

Taru Villas - Rock Villa

Bentota

An enchanting 170-year-old walauwa set amidst a hectare of tranquil tropical gardens, with coconut palms overhead and fragrant frangipani blossom. Ideally situated on an attractive coastline, the intimate ambience, soothing pace and unpretentious service makes for a relaxing beach stay.

Paradise Road Tintagel

Colombo

A unique and private hotel, situated in the heart of Colombo and offering ten individually designed suites with all modern amenities and services. The hotel is housed in a stunning heritage residence that was previously home to three of Sri Lanka’s political leaders.

Jetwing Warwick Gardens

Nuwara Eliya

Luxury colonial bungalow ideal for those looking for pampered seclusion in the upper Hill Country. This restored and refurbished Scottish country mansion boasts landscaped gardens full of bird life, richly decorated interiors, and home-cooked food.

Dickoya by Jetwing

Dickoya

Amidst lush plantations of the central highlands, Dickoya by Jetwing is a 19th century tea planter’s bungalow located in the eponymous mountain town famed for tea production. Nostalgic grandeur and modern luxuries combine to make you feel at home in the hills.

Mountbatten Bungalow

Kandy

Tastefully renovated and refurbished century-old tea planter’s bungalow once the war office and sometimes private residence of Lord Mountbatten of Burma, hence its name. Experience a special moment in time, a bygone era of grace and elegance that is still tangible today.

Maalu Maalu Resort and Spa

Passikudah

Built on the concept of a traditional Sri Lankan fishing village (‘Waadiya’), the elegant and eco-friendly architecture seamlessly blends with the white sandy beaches and dazzling blue seas under the tropical skies of the tranquil east coast.

Fort Bazaar

Galle

Handsome 17th century merchant’s home redefined as a luxury town house hotel with 18 stylish guestrooms and fresh, contemporary interiors invoking a Middle Eastern vibe. This boutique spa hotel promises serenity, top-quality service and modern gourmet dining within the Fort.

Taylors Hill

Deltota

Built by a British planter over 100 years ago, the hotel is sumptuous and stylish, combining comfort and originality with up-country cosiness. The house is set on the island's first and longest-running tea estate at Loolecondera, established by the eponymous James Taylor.

Heritage

Quality Accommodation on a Budget

Sri Lanka is known for quality accommodation at a reasonable price and our Heritage category is no exception. Choose from a special selection of former forts, rustic beachside cabanas, boutique hotels and contemporary resorts. The high standard, unique character and value for money of our Heritage accommodation will be a welcome surprise to many!

We offer Heritage accommodation throughout Sri Lanka. Below are outline details of sample Heritage accommodation. For more details, click on Trip Planner and log in for photos and in-depth descriptions of the accommodation available.

Price Band:

GBP 100 - 200

Anantaya Resort and Spa Passikudah

Passikudah

A uniquely designed resort and spa with a showpiece water feature and swimming pool running through the property that fronts the unspoiled natural bay, offering rooms, suites and villas with large open sun decks and plunge pools for a family-friendly beach getaway.

Villa Atulya and Villa Kanchana

Mirissa

Home away from home experience in luxury. The two villas are located side by side on the beachfront and each villa has five ocean- facing, spacious air-conditioned rooms. Ideal for couples or families seeking an alternative to the standard fare on offer at larger hotels.

Taru Villas - The Tangalle Social

Tangalle

Colourful beachside bar and grill, with boutique accommodation upstairs, and another wonderful Mawella Beach property by Taru, the enigmatic designer and hotelier of all things stylish. The three large and well-appointed twin bedrooms offer a small hotel experience by the beach.

Cinnamon Lodge

Habarana

5-star Cinnamon Lodge is an environmentally-friendly resort (Green Globe 21 Certified) built in the style of nearby Ritigala Monastery ruins and spread over 15 hectares of lush woodland and mature gardens connected by a myriad of pathways and nature trails.

Kudakalliya

Arugam Bay

Secluded retreat set in over one hectare of land overlooking a deserted Indian Ocean beach and a river alongside. Two thoughtfully designed bungalows have been created with utmost care, to optimise the views and maintain absolute privacy for each property.

Cinnamon Lakeside

Colombo

Luxury resort hotel in the heart of Colombo overlooking Beira Lake and the bustling city, housing the largest city swimming pool, spectacular landscaping and a floating restaurant. Most of the 346 rooms offer private terraces with breath-taking views of the poolside and lake beyond.

EKHO Ella

Ella

Renovated former government rest house with one of the best viewpoints in Ella or anywhere else in the southern Hill Country for that matter. Nestled in the lap of Ella Gap and surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, it is ideally situated for R&R or walking trails.

Theva Residency

Kandy

This quirky contemporary glass-walled house is in an enviable location overlooking Kandy. The architecture makes the most of the wondrous aerial aspect and is centred on the view, which is made visible at every point possible from inside the house.

The Kandy Samadhi Centre

Panwila

Primarily a forest retreat for Ayurveda, meditation and yoga, The Kandy Samadhi Centre will also appeal to travellers looking for a relaxing and peaceful respite away from it all, absorbing the charm of traditional village life whilst surrounded by nature.

Amaya Beach

Passikudah

Beachside resort and spa overlooking Passikudah Bay, a long stretch of coastline renowned for its calm and shallow waters ideal for swimming and water sports from March to September. This laidback resort offers ocean view rooms and suites as well as seafood specialities.

The Planters Bungalow

Ella

Late 19th century tea estate bungalow and deluxe apartments immersed in landscaped gardens harbouring a rare collection of tropical fruit and timber trees surrounding a swimming pool. The bungalow is located in the lower southern tea plantations of Ella Gap towards Wellawaya.

Big Game Camp Yala

Yala

Tented safari camp experience bordering Yala National Park and only 20 minutes’ drive from the quieter Katagamuwa park entrance. As it is located adjacent to the park’s boundary, it feels more like living inside the restricted reserve with plenty of wildlife passing through.

Roo Mansala

Sigiriya

With uninterrupted views of Sigiriya rock fortress and Pidurangala Rock, Roo Mansala ('alluring abode') offers peaceful seclusion in the lush, fertile plains of the Cultural Triangle. The unique architecture of the hotel blends the marvels of Sigiriya with modern eco-boutique living.

Coco Tangalla

Tangalle

Refurbished historic beachside bungalow restored to the typical ’Black and White’ house design popular throughout colonial Asia in the early 20th Century. The six-bedroom villa consists of the main house with four bedrooms and an adjoining annexe with an additional two bedrooms.

Melheim Resort

Beragala

A mountain eyrie with spectacular views from the numerous terraces and comfortable bedrooms, Melheim Resort has the impression of being on top of the world, with the sky stretching seemingly endlessly above and cloud-shrouded hills disappearing into the distance below.

The Blue Water

Wadduwa

Conceived as a vast urban palazzo by the legendary local architect Geoffrey Bawa, the design of the hotel is a cool and palatial version of a traditional rest house, with a lofty entrance porch and a long arcade running across a large garden.

Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel

Dambulla

Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel is an intimate and stylish hotel set in two hectares of private grounds with panoramic views of Kandalama Lake and the Pothana Hills beyond. The 12 spacious and well-presented rooms are complemented by a serene pool and open-air restaurant.

Kumbuk River Eco Extraordinaire

Okkampitiya

A one-of-a-kind eco resort situated alongside the Kumbuk River that feeds Yala National Park just a stone’s throw away. Based on a local community project, this unique get-away-from-it-all jungle retreat will immerse you in nature in an ethical and sustainable way.

Palagama Beach

Kalpitiya

Village living, naturally designed, has created beautiful, sustainable living spaces, blending traditional Sri Lankan design with a touch of the contemporary. Palagama Beach has kilometres of empty, wild beaches stretching out along the west coast, just how beaches should be.

Forest Rock Garden Resort

Anuradhapura

Recreating the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura on a 20-hectare estate, and elevated 6 metres above ground level to conserve trees and limit environmental damage, the resort is situated within Andarawewa forest, an ‘elephant corridor’ linking the local arboreal areas with Wilpattu National Park.

Ashburnham Estate

Knuckles

‘Ash’ is a renovated and funky 1930s tea planter’s bungalow set in its own 40-hectare tea estate and boasts stunning waterfalls and far reaching views up to and across the Knuckles Mountains, not to mention lush tea fields, plucked each day.

Number One Mirissa

Mirissa

Set in a stunning location in terraced grounds overlooking gorgeous Mirissa beach and with panoramic views of the bays beyond, it is a sympathetically designed hotel, in part homage to Bawa and colonial traditionalism, offering surf-chic luxury and direct beach access.

Rangala House

Knuckles

Home-away-from-home towards the Knuckles Mountains with superb panoramic views to the horizon. Comfortable and straightforward rooms, excellent food, and access to the Knuckles makes it an ideal spot for those looking for something different in the Kandy area.

Saraii Village

Weerawila

Eco-resort based on the back-to-basics concept of living in a traditional Sri Lankan village and enjoying simple pleasures. The tree houses and adobe huts with Illuk (grass reed) roofs are spacious and comfortable with all mod cons and en suite bathrooms.

Jetwing Yala

Yala

Luxury beachfront resort and spa committed to sustainability, with one of the island’s largest privately-owned solar arrays, close to the entrance to Yala National Park. The hotel has developed an oceanfront lounge area, which allows you to relax amongst coastal wilderness between safaris.

Villa Rosa

Kandy

This wonderfully located property has some of the best views in Kandy, enabling you to look both ways along the broad and verdant Mahaweli Ganga valley. The bedrooms and bathrooms are comfortable rather than designer, and the ambience is quiet and relaxed rather than chic.

Turtle Bay

Tangalle

A luxury stay in an environmentally and socially sustainable way is promised at Turtle Bay, which is designed for modern tropical living yet informal to make you feel at home. The service is discreet and intuitive to let you relax in the tranquillity of the location.

Pigeon Island Beach Resort

Nilaveli

Modest beach front hotel overlooking Pigeon Island and the Indian Ocean beyond, with air conditioned and comfortable rooms including Wi-Fi and satellite TV. The airy restaurant provides breakfast, lunch and dinner supplemented by room service, and offers Eastern and Western cuisine.

Thaulle Resort

Tissamaharama

Certified Ayurveda organic resort set in generous shaded grounds on the banks of tranquil Yoda Wewa (lake). The serene and calm surroundings complement the comfortable rooms, all with spectacular lake views. The self-styled eco-hotel champions sustainability by the use of resources and interaction with nature.

Rainforest Edge

Sinharaja

Set against the backdrop of Sinharaja Forest Reserve, the resort is a real ’get-away-from-it-all’ jungle retreat without compromising on comfort or facilities. The northern region of the forest reserve is a haven for birdwatchers with 48 bird species, including 12 endemics, spotted locally.

The Thinnai

Jaffna

The hotel resembles the distinctive ‘thinnai’ homes of the region, the traditional and hospitable terraced town houses designed as havens of peace and tranquillity. In the countryside, Thinnai Organic farm preserves the natural environment while supporting the local community.

Diyabubula

Dambulla

Previously the secretive estate of Laki Senanayake, one of Sri Lanka’s most eminent artists and a close friend of Geoffrey Bawa, the five living spaces of this jungle hideaway all project the founder’s ethos of creativity in a magical location.

North Gate by Jetwing

Jaffna

Just footsteps away from Jaffna railway station and equipped with an array of modern amenities and services including balcony bedrooms, contemporary comforts meet northern heritage and its legendary hospitality at the new addition to the Jetwing family in Jaffna.

Apa Villa Illuketia

Galle

The villa is a former plantation house renovated into Zen-inspired accommodation inland from Galle. Thoroughly modernised but retaining the flavour of the island's colonial past, the expansive 200-year-old house sits on a 4-hectare estate of tropical gardens and paddy fields.

Jetwing Lake

Dambulla

Modern resort immersed in a secluded dry zone forest overlooking Siyambalawewa tank, a relic from an ancient civilisation. Combining contemporary architecture with the solitude and calming ambience of its natural environment, the hotel is set in over 7 hectares of leafy grounds.

Amaya Hills

Kandy

The resort is ‘a palace in the hills’ evoking the architecture that embodies the spirit of the ancient kingdom of Kandy, a cool retreat perched high above Sri Lanka’s second city. All rooms have a private balcony with either a valley or mountain view.

The Other Corner

Habarana

Intimate sanctuary spread over 2.5 hectares of forested land without manmade barriers to the surrounding jungle, which is home to a variety of wildlife. The accommodation is hidden amongst foliage, and all includes a/c, en suite bathrooms and modern facilities.

EKHO Lake House

Polonnaruwa

Overlooking magnificent Parakrama Samudra lake, the erstwhile and restored government rest house is ideally situated for visiting the medieval capital’s ancient sites and offers a memorable stay in a heritage property, with its renovated rooms and updated lakeside restaurant.

Mango House

Galle

Refreshing alternative to the traditional colonial Dutch aesthetic prominent within the Fort. White-washed walls, bold colour combinations, poster art and ingenious use of space contrive to produce a novel style, enhanced by waving fronded palms and long-stemmed ceiling fans.

Jetwing Jaffna

Jaffna

Jetwing Jaffna delivers experiences of exotic luxury influenced by the fascinating mix of colonial charm and the local Tamil culture. The hotel is elegantly furnished in an ethnically contemporary style and the comfortable deluxe rooms have magnificent views over the town.

Oatlands by Jetwing

Nuwara Eliya

Once a cosy private holiday home and now a restored vintage retreat, this colonial bungalow delightfully melds classic upcountry elegance with the characteristic architecture of the time. Revisit a bygone era in one of the four stately bedchambers furnished with antiques.

The Merchant Galle Fort

Galle

Grand and impressive boutique hotel with a spacious alfresco bar and dining area within a cobbled courtyard. The iconic main buildings that date back to 1710 were built by the colonial Dutch as a market place and have now been beautifully restored with contemporary aesthetics to compliment the architectural history of Galle fort.

Villa Hundira

Negombo

Elegant home-from-home situated in a secluded location on Negombo lagoon. The comfortable and stylish rooms are complemented by a relaxed ambience. Indira, one of the passionate owners, runs an on-going community project, Thimble, which supports local fisher folk through an arts and crafts workshop in-house.

Buckingham Place

Tangalle

Expect something different. Contemporary and stylish in design, but not sterile or soulless, Nick Buckingham’s masterpiece is nestled between a deserted Indian Ocean beach, a treasured eco gem, and a lagoon close to the fisher and farmer village of Rekawa.

Shinagawa Beach

Balapitiya

Located directly on the ocean front overlooking a quiet stretch of sandy beach, this contemporary boutique-style hotel has lofty and light living spaces, and all rooms offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean, providing a luxurious environment to kick back and relax.

OZO Kandy Sri Lanka

Kandy

Smart, modern hotel overlooking Kandy Lake and with stunning vistas of the ethereal mist-covered mountains beyond. Cosy balcony bedrooms with comfy beds and ultramodern amenities will satisfy the most tech-savvy guest. The rooftop pool and lounge bar make the most of the central location and views.

The Palmyrah House

Mannar

In the centre of Mannar Island, famed for migratory birds during the winter and some of Sri Lanka’s best seafood, this contemporary styled hotel offers 14 light, spacious and comfortable bedrooms, restaurant and bar, swimming pool, traditional well bath, recreational area, gym, and library.

Anilana Nilaveli

Nilaveli

Stylish and contemporary resort for a relaxing beach stay with a splash luxury thrown in – good food, attentive service and beautiful natural surroundings. All rooms and suites are comfortably furnished and have breath-taking views of the Indian Ocean or gardens.

Club Villa

Bentota

Elegant 19th-century Dutch-style villa designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary architect. The villa, with manicured, coconut palm-peppered lawns, is tastefully furnished with period pieces of Dutch and Sri Lankan origin, and decorated with original murals and batiks.

The Fort Printers

Galle

Magnificent 18th-century mansion villa turned printing facility now housing five stylish suites furnished with antiques and fitted with copper-lined rain showers. Since 2013, the boutique hotel offers 13 suites in total with the addition of two other heritage villas close by.

Tamarind Hill

Galle

An aristocratic manor house built on the banks of the majestic Gin Ganga over 250 years ago, the villa is set around a stunning central courtyard. This sumptuous colonial-style luxury boutique hotel is a perfect blend of old-world hospitality and contemporary luxury.

Heritance Ahungalla

Ahungalla

An iconic hotel designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary architect. This 4-star+ resort commands an unbeatable position on a long stretch of sandy beach lapped by the Indian Ocean, and includes a fine-dining restaurant and night club.

Big Game Camp Wilpattu

Wilpattu

Tented safari camp experience bordering the southern reaches of Wilpattu National Park. Surrounded by bush forest and adjoining a lake, the camp is visited by elephants and has a rich birdlife. Enjoy comfortable tents and al fresco meals in the serenity of nature.

C Beyond Nilaveli

Nilaveli

Authentic Long Island-style beach house in a spectacular location at the confluence of ocean and lagoon. The brainchild of Laki Senanayake, one of the island’s most revered artists, the wood-clad and wooden-floored beach house is a wonderful homage to traditional oceanfront retreats the world over.

Galle Face Hotel

Colombo

An iconic landmark on the seafront in the heart of Colombo and restored to its former glory, Galle Face is one of the oldest hotels east of the Suez, embracing its rich history and legendary traditions to offer a unique experience.

Cinnamon Wild

Yala

Ideally located and attractively appointed nature resort spanning four hectares of jungle on a seemingly endless beachfront with wild animals wandering through the hotel’s grounds. Take the opportunity of spotting a variety of wildlife from the well-positioned, 360-degree observation deck.

Aliya Resort and Spa

Sigiriya

Set in lush vegetation where elephants roam free – ‘Aliya’ means elephant in Sinhala – the resort is an artful blend of contemporary architecture and authentic Sri Lankan minimalism, and aims to provide a distinctive experience of traditional village life.

The Sun House

Galle

Tastefully restored Scottish spice merchant’s hilltop mansion originally built in 1861, with wonderful views over Galle and to the Indian Ocean beyond. It is immersed in a private shady garden full of Frangipani and Hibiscus trees around a swimming pool.

Bougainvillea Retreat

Kandy

Bougainvillea Retreat is situated on the vast private estates of Victoria Golf and Country Resort overlooking Victoria Reservoir from a raised vantage point at the end of a narrow and winding track, an anomalous access considering the opulence within!

Jims Farm Villas

Matale

Off the beaten track and surrounded by spice plantations and palm trees, Jim’s Farm Villas is an eco-gem and family favourite. Developed from virgin jungle, the villas are immersed in a 20-hectare organic farm producing black pepper, cinnamon, bananas and coconuts.

Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort

Udawalawe

Surrounded by three hectares of grounds on the boundary between the island’s wet and dry zones, the hotel has been constructed to preserve the natural ambience of the jungle under the shade of the stately Kumbuk trees within the grounds.

Dolphin Beach Resort

Kalpitiya

Dolphin Beach Resort sits beside the ocean where whales and dolphins play on an unspoiled peninsula of golden sandy beaches and a scarcity of crowds, offering luxury tented accommodation as you have never experienced before. Ideal for couples and families wanting to get away from it all.

Imagine Villa Hotel

Mirissa

Intimate and modern beachfront hotel inspired by the colonial architecture of the island and offering ten spacious suites and rooms with balconies or terraces. Imagine encourages you to “relax, feel happy and free” – a home away from home close to beautiful Mirissa bay.

Kalus Hideaway

Udawalawe

Nestled in a beautifully manicured garden of two hectares, including raised organic vegetable beds, swimming pool and spa, this rustic countryside hotel is close to Udawalawe National Park and surrounded by lush woodland and paddy fields.

Villa Saffron

Hikkaduwa

Created by Anjalendran, a colleague of Geoffrey Bawa, the oceanfront villa is artfully designed and draws inspiration from the vernacular traditions of the island. Four spacious and luxurious rooms and suites have ocean views while the fifth lies in the rear garden close to the road.

Talalla Retreat

Tangalle

Lying just behind one of Sri Lanka’s most peaceful and protected beaches, a crescent cove of glassy-still, crystal clear turquoise waters, spotless golden sand and tropical sunrises, this surf, yoga and wellness resort is set in a verdant palm garden nestled by the shore.

Jetwing Lagoon

Negombo

Nestled between the Indian Ocean and a tranquil lagoon just south of Negombo, Jetwing Lagoon is the new incarnation of Blue Lagoon Hotel, Sri Lanka’s very first resort hotel, which was designed by the legendary local architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Jetwing St. Andrew’s

Nuwara Eliya

Restored Georgian style upcountry mansion and former tea planters’ club surrounded by terraced lawns and still preserving the charm of a bygone colonial era with its typical Hill Country atmosphere in the heart of ‘Little England’ with a contemporary Sri Lankan touch.

Earls Regency Hotel

Kandy

This luxury five-star resort with a riverside location on the edge of Kandy and encircled by hills is the perfect oasis of calm to retreat to after a day of sightseeing. Beautifully manicured gardens surround the inviting swimming pools and the hotel is environmentally conscious.

Anilana Pasikuda

Passikudah

An intimate and adult-oriented retreat preserving the natural beauty of the environment whilst ensuring that the oversized rooms have breath-taking views of the Indian Ocean. The refined resort is discretely located away from the crowd on Passikudah Bay and surrounded by a coral reef.

Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing

Pottuvil

A bijou boutique experience with a taste of rustic sophistication on the island’s unexplored east coast. This four-bedroom oceanfront villa has a prime position on a secluded white sandy beach within striking distance of Sri Lanka’s surfing centre, Arugam Bay.

Nilaveli Beach Hotel

Nilaveli

The hotel has a superb beachfront position within a palm grove overlooking nearby Pigeon Island. The shady garden is a welcome haven during the heat of the day, with a large swimming pool to cool off in and a beachside cabana bar serving light meals.

The Notarys House

Makandura

Unique boutique hotel amidst large tropical gardens and around 45 minutes' drive from the airport. Traditional and contemporary Sri Lankan architecture complements the property's heritage, which offers spacious a/c rooms with balconies, a swimming pool and hearty food in a relaxing setting.

98 Acres Resort and Spa

Ella

98 Acres Resort and Spa is a luxury retreat with spectacular views in an idyllic location at the southern end of the Hill Country. Surrounded by the eponymous scenic tea estate in Uva Province, it was constructed with the emphasis on eco-friendliness and sustainability.

Borderlands Eco Lodge

Kitulgala

Overlooking the Kelani River, the eco lodge and jungle camp provides a ‘glamping’ experience for those who need a certain degree of comfort. Surrounded by mountains and the clear, rushing river below, the site is truly stunning.

CoCoBay Unawatuna

Unawatuna

On a secluded and private sandy beach lapped by the clear warm waters of the Indian Ocean and overlooking Galle fort, this award-winning hotel has a protected bay safe for swimming and comfortable ocean view rooms and suites, some with a private plunge pool or Jacuzzi.

Mount Lavinia Hotel

Colombo

Once the grandiose residence of the colonial British Governor General, the hotel still preserves the old-world charm and elegance of a bygone era, including the lavish marbled flooring and beachfront terrace, now with swimming pool. The rooms are housed in four separate wings.

Mahaweli Reach Hotel

Kandy

Airy, colonial-style 4-star hotel set in a palm grove on the banks of the mighty Mahaweli Ganga, with Deluxe Rooms and riverfront Suites. The dominant outdoor swimming pool surrounded by trees evokes the calm, serene atmosphere of a sacred temple courtyard.

Tea Plant Hotel

Nuwara Eliya

Light and spacious minimalist boutique property taking architectural and design inspiration from the stately tea factories of the area. Characterised by timber detailing, glass panels, soft ambient lights and fresh flower arrangements, the hotel provides a cosy and warm atmosphere – ideal for the cooler upcountry climate.

Grand Hotel

Nuwara Eliya

Built in 1891, this was the palatial residence of the former Governor of Sri Lanka and an excellent example of a neo-Elizabethan mansion, still retaining the stateliness and grandeur of the bygone British colonial era following an extensive refurbishment.

Cinnamon Citadel

Kandy

Rambling chalet-style hotel with an ethnic and luxuriant feel situated in an enviable position overlooking the great Mahaweli Ganga, Sri Lanka’s mightiest river, and designed to reflect the rich history and majesty of Kandy, the seat of the last Sinhalese kingdom.

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon

Uppuveli

Originally a 1970s beach resort intended to resemble a great sailing vessel, Trinco Blu is themed in a refreshing and stylish retro-chic design. Choose from Superior Rooms and Suites in the main hotel building and oceanfront Beach Chalets.

AVANI Bentota Resort

Bentota

Designed by world-renowned local architect Geoffrey Bawa in the style of an 18th century Dutch village, the resort commands picturesque beachfront views and provides a refreshingly understated ambience, warm hospitality and delightful setting, inspiring a distinctive character and charm all of its own.

Habarana Village by Cinnamon

Habarana

Rustic luxury amidst a tropical forest on the edge of a tranquil lake making you feel at one with nature, which is emphasised by regular sightings of monkeys, monitor lizards and a spectacular array of Sri Lankan bird life in the immediate area.

Amaya Lake

Dambulla

On the shores of picturesque Kandalama Wewa (lake) in its own 12-hectare ’Dry Zone’ forested estate, Amaya Lake is a relaxed and eco-friendly resort with attractive lawns and mature gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, and plenty of activities for children.

Guesthouse

Family-Run Guesthouses for the Local Touch

Staying with a family in their own guesthouse or homestay is a unique opportunity to experience the traditional Sri Lankan way of life and sample authentic home cooking. All of our guesthouses and homestays have comfortable bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and supply meals. Mosquito nets are always provided, if necessary, and air conditioning is becoming widespread. Wi-Fi and other facilities are frequently available. We also offer locally-run small hotels, cabanas and tree houses in this category.

We currently offer Guesthouse accommodation in all regions of Sri Lanka, with the exception of the North and East. Below are outline details of sample Guesthouse accommodation. For more details, click on Trip Planner and log in for photos and in-depth descriptions of the accommodation available.

Price Band:

GBP up to 100

Wilpattu Corridor

Wilpattu

Simple and comfortable tree houses in a rural setting overlooking Hunuwila Tank (lake) and surrounded by virgin forest, opposite the entrance to Wilpattu National Park. The spacious and en suite, air-conditioned tree houses are immersed in natural environs neighbouring an ‘elephant corridor’.

Amba Farmhouse

Ella

An organic farm and guesthouse perched in a tranquil valley above Ravana Falls, with spectacular views of Ella Rock and Lipton’s Seat. The 100-year-old estate bungalow is a full-service guesthouse, offering guests the opportunity to learn more about organic farming and artisanal tea-making.

Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts

Kandy

Boutique-style hotel nestled in the Hanthana Hills not far from the city centre in the cool climes of Kandy. Perched atop a cliff, surrounded by emerald mountains of lush green tea and pepper plantations, this comfortable hotel has stunning far-reaching vistas in a breath-taking setting.

Hantara Udawalawa

Udawalawe

Charming diminutive guesthouse in a tranquil countryside setting offering three modest A-frame chalets with en suite alfresco bathrooms and traditional home cooking in a simple flower-adorned dining area. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere amply complements the straightforward and honest accommodation.

Little Paradise

Anuradhapura

Welcoming family-run guesthouse in Anuradhapura new town with clean and comfortable rooms, traditional Sri Lankan home cooking, and a private garden full of birdsong. The four rooms are spacious, all en suite and a/c, and have balconies with garden views.

Hibiscus Garden Hotel

Tissamaharama

The guesthouse is set in a luscious garden which, when in bloom, is alive with colour and birdlife, and includes an inviting swimming pool and air-conditioned garden chalets. The open plan, first floor restaurant has views out across countryside to nearby hills.

Thambapanni Retreat

Unawatuna

Quirky place to stay set back from the attractive sandy bay of Unawatuna and only 5 km east of Galle. Over-sailed by a densely wooded cliff, the well-established retreat is a shady and secluded sanctuary surrounded by bamboo, mango and kitul trees resonant with birdsong.

Hotel Suisse

Kandy

Colonial-style hotel and former British governor’s residence in a quiet and secluded location close to Kandy Lake and within striking distance of the Temple of the Tooth and city centre. Although reminiscent of a bygone age, the hotel has modern refurbished rooms.

The Tamarind Tree Hotel

Minuwangoda

Set in a quiet, leafy and extensive garden, including a swimming pool, and offering comfortable air conditioned rooms, just 15 minutes’ drive from the international airport. Deriving its name from the lofty tamarind tree that shades the premises, this is a convenient budget airport resort.

Galkadawala

Habarana

Open-plan forest lodge built sensitively with its natural surroundings and nestled in ‘jungle’ near a picturesque lake. It is a unique property in a stunning setting with an eclectic charm at every turn, an ideal retreat for nature lovers.

Thaproban Beach House

Unawatuna

Three-storey, beachside guesthouse surrounded by palm trees on the sandy, crescent-shaped bay of Unawatuna. The beach is ideal for swimming during the season (November to April), and there are breath-taking sea views across the Indian Ocean to the horizon.

Palm Paradise Cabanas and Villas

Tangalle

Intimate and well-established beach resort immersed in a palm grove behind a secluded and attractive sandy bay. The original wooden cabanas and newer villas are scattered around the estate, with its sheltering palm trees, exotic tropical birds and ocean breezes.

Hotel Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Eco-friendly resort in the shadow of Lion Rock at Sigiriya and a recipient of the Responsible Tourism Awards for incorporating energy-saving and pollution-limiting processes. Superior Rooms throughout include modern amenities, and the swimming pool and dining areas have uninterrupted views of Sigiriya rock.

Clove Tree Cottage

Ella

Off-the-beaten-track guesthouse set in a two-storey former tea estate office in an unspoiled valley in the hills above Ravana Falls with access to the facilities of Amba Estate, which produces a range of artisanal teas, coffees, spices and preserves from the 40-hectare plantation.

EKHO Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Renovated and expanded former government rest house with a prime position overlooking Lion Rock at Sigiriya. Deep verandas with overhanging roofs borrow from the local vernacular of traditional walauwas (manor houses) and reinstate the colonial architecture of times past.

Back of Beyond - Safari Lodge Yala

Yala

Inspired by the traditional clay wall and thatch-roof homes of the dry zone, but with crisp linen and modern bathrooms, three distinct bungalows have large open verandas for dining and socialising, and small enclosed ‘safe areas’ for sleeping.

Tree of Life Nature Resort

Kandy

Spread over 25 hectares of forested, rolling hills surrounded by tea estates, this eco-friendly hotel is a tranquil haven for those looking for a little solitude close to nature, a blend of colonial and traditional architectural styles that together give you a unique Hill Country experience.

Tea Hills Bungalow

Hatton

This smart guesthouse, with views over the surrounding tea plantations, is situated in a convenient location on the outskirts of Hatton for visits to sacred Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), and offers comfortable rooms, friendly service and tasty local cuisine in a relaxed style.

Fox Jaffna by Fox Resorts

Jaffna

Fox Jaffna is a real gem and the best place to stay in the area at an incredible price for the quality on offer. Centred on an ancestral walauwa (manor house), the unassuming and tranquil estate is of generous proportions and attractively landscaped.

Sinharaja Rest

Sinharaja

Intimate and homely guesthouse offering clean and basic rooms and serving authentic Sri Lankan food, close to the southern entrance of Sinharaja Forest Reserve. There are also a couple of hill-top en suite chalets with wonderful views of the surrounding jungle on offer.

The Sanctuary at Tissawewa

Anuradhapura

Sensitively renovated former Dutch colonial governor’s residence immersed in a tree-filled and expansive garden alive with a variety of bird life. The makeover has uplifted the building to its former grandeur with polished wooden floors and reproduction antique furniture.

Hotel Pledgescape

Negombo

Bijou budget boutique hotel in a quiet and secluded neighbourhood off the main beachfront with restaurants, bars and sun-kissed sandy beaches only a short stroll away. The stylish rooms and suites complement the private, walled courtyard with pool terrace, bar and restaurant.

Paradise Beach Club

Mirissa

Long established and enduringly popular beachfront hotel on one of the island’s most attractive crescent-shaped sandy bays. Nestled in a beachside palm grove and offering a variety of room styles, this budget resort offers modest accommodation for the thrifty sun seeker.

Back of Beyond - Pidurangala

Sigiriya

Secluded retreat of traditionally-built tree houses and mud-walled cottages hidden in two hectares of forest at the base of Pidurangala rock, an area named by local villagers as “Kurulu Uyana” (Bird Park) and also home to various wildlife including passing elephants!

The Cottage by Jetwing

Nuwara Eliya

Cosy colonial style Hill Country cottage offering intimate bedchambers that feature vintage comforts and modern facilities in a nostalgic ambience filled with old world charm amongst picturesque mountains. With just three bedrooms, this bijou residence is ideal for a family or group of friends.

Ancient Village Hotel

Anuradhapura

Concept hotel based on a traditional Sinhalese village of the early 19th century living in harmony with nature. From entering the village (“Purana Gama”) and donning traditional attire at reception, guests live as an ancient farmer experiencing everyday life of two centuries ago.

Kithala Resort

Tissamaharama

Set in peaceful, leafy grounds, including a swimming pool, and surrounded by paddy fields and attractive countryside home to an array of birdlife, hence its name – Kithala or Purple Coot. It is conveniently located for arranging jeep safaris in Yala and Bundala National Parks.

Taru Villas - Lake Lodge

Colombo

A ‘luxury for less’ hideaway only moments away from the capital’s attractions and the ancestral property of Taru, the renowned local designer and hotelier. With her creative emphasis on lines, light, and space, Taru's brainchild is the template for contemporary elegance.

Deer Park Hotel

Polonnaruwa

Nestled along the banks of 7th-century Giritale Lake, this eco-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodation in tranquil surroundings designed with the environment in mind. Acknowledged as the ancient royal hunting grounds, the surrounding jungle is home to an abundance of flora and fauna.

Hanthana House

Kandy

Friendly and welcoming homestay guesthouse offering a comfortable stay in attractive surroundings in an area famous for cultivating some of the first tea grown on the island, with the added benefit of tasty and authentic Sri Lankan home cooking!

Palm Garden Village Hotel

Anuradhapura

Built in traditional colonial style and set in 20 hectares of grounds filled with an abundance of flowering plants, spices and fruits, the hotel includes a lake, which elephants, deer, water buffaloes and wild boar occasionally use as a watering hole.

EKHO Safari Tissa

Tissamaharama

A former government rest house idyllically positioned on the banks of serene and tranquil Tissa Wewa lake, EKHO Safari Tissa offers stylishly decorated rooms with spectacular lake views, refreshing swimming pool and dining terrace, and it is conveniently located for arranging jeep safaris in Yala and Bundala National Parks.

Fort Bliss

Galle

Comfortable four-bedroom town villa with courtyard garden and sit-out veranda within the Fort. Elegantly furnished and built in harmony with the original colonial Dutch architecture of the 17th century, it is located only a few metres from the famous ramparts.

Kassapa Lions Rock

Sigiriya

With stunning views of ‘Lion Rock’ dominating the skyline, this modern chalet complex is surrounded by woodland and the lush grounds are frequented by wild peacocks. The simple but comfortable rooms are all en suite and a/c with private shaded terraces.

Clove Tree House

Ella

Another off-the-beaten-track and novel home-away-from-home within Amba Estate, which is located in an unspoiled valley in the hills above Ravana Falls near Ella. The welcoming homestay is set in a renovated 1930s tea estate bungalow with spectacular views of Ella Rock and Lipton's Seat.

Polwaththa Eco Lodges

Digana

Sustainable living made simple. Modest accommodation of rustic eco lodges with outstanding views as well as village homestays immersed in an unspoiled and pristine forest offering you a truly ‘living in the jungle’ and out-of-the-ordinary experience close to Kandy.

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Saman Villas

Aditya

Taru Villas - The Yala Lodge

Wild Coast Tented Lodge

Ahaspokuna Bush Walks Camp

Clingendael

Serene Pavilions

Mahoora Elite Wilpattu

Uga Ulagalla

32 Middle Street

Camellia Hills

Goatfell

Mahoora Premium Wilpattu

Uga Chena Huts

Leopard Safaris Yala by KK Collection

Reef Villa

Nine Skies

Mahoora Elite Yala

Ceylon Tea Trails

Mahoora Premium Yala

Kulu Safaris

Wilpattu Safari Camp

Taru Villas - Villa 906

Cape Weligama

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The Kandy House

Stafford Bungalow

Uga Bay

Water Garden Sigiriya

The Dutch House

The Fortress Resort and Spa

Kumu Beach

Kalundewa Retreat

Uga Jungle Beach

Kahanda Kanda

Le Grand Galle

Jetwing Vil Uyana

The Wallawwa

Taru Villas - The Long House

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The Elephant Stables

The River House

Ellerton

Jetwing Kaduruketha

41 Lighthouse Street

The Rainforest Ecolodge

Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge

Heritance Kandalama

Scottish Planter Glendevon Bungalow

Uga Residence

Amaya Langdale

KK Beach

Amaya Signature

Lunuganga

Calamansi Cove Villas by Jetwing

Yathra Houseboat by Jetwing

Taru Villas - Rampart Street

The Oliphant Bungalow

Flameback Eco Lodge

The Last House

The Villa Bentota

Jetwing Lighthouse

Strathdon by Jetwing

Craig Appin by Jetwing

Maniumpathy

Taru Villas - The Muse

Ubuntu Beach Villas by Lantern

Jetwing Surf

Lantern Boutique Hotel

Jetwing Kurulubedda