We’re back with our third instalment of our winter sun inspiration series. Now that the autumnal chill has well and truly kicked in, we’re itching more than ever to feel the sunshine on our faces.
Our third destination is a place that has just started to be discovered more and more by travellers, yet still has so much to give. Think gorgeous sandy beaches, endless culture, delicious and flavoursome food, the most beautiful train ride in the world and famous tea plantations - we’re talking about Sri Lanka! Here are our top 3 recommendations for areas to explore whilst you’re there:
Sri Lanka
December to April is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka, especially if you plan to visit the west and south coasts as well as the Cultural Triangle. Sri Lanka is quite a small island so you can cover quite a lot of the diverse and amazing activities the island has to offer with relatively little travel.
Galle
Located in the South Coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is oozing with history and a is a real delight to explore. Most people visit Galle for two reasons - Galle Fort and Unawatuna. Whilst Galle Fort offers plenty of culture, ancient mosques, churches, quaint lanes with quirky boutiques and stylish cafes, Unawatuna is a complete contrast with its coral reef and palm-lined beaches. It’s also a pretty good spot for surfing. For us, Galle has that great combination of culture and beach, and is definitely worth exploring.
One of our favourite hotels is Fort Bazaar. Described as a cool and contemporary bolthole, the interiors are incredibly stylish, there’s a secluded spa and it’s in prime position for an early morning trip to the market or a sun-worshipping spot on the beach.
Another choice of hotel would be Tri. A new breed of sustainable luxury hotels, Tri is located on Koggala, Sri Lanka’s finest lake and boasts gorgeous views in an inspiring jungle-like landscape. You’ll find delicious dining, yoga treatments and that oh-so inviting infinity pool.
Ella
Although it’s not a big place, Ella has so much to offer. It’s a laid-back town, that’s quickly becoming known as everyone’s favourite mountain town, and we can see why. There’s plenty of things to do, such as climbing up Adam’s Peak and Little Adam’s Peak, swimming at Diyaluma Falls and walking along the tracks on the Nine Arch Bridge. You can also learn more about the tea plantations, and admire the endless tea fields, and of course, take one of the most beautiful train rides in the world from Ella.
We’d definitely recommend a stay at 98 Acres Resort and Spa. An elegant and chic hotel, it’s perfectly located on a scenic 98 acre tea estate, and is surrounded by stunning landscape. You’ll find charming chalets that offer luxurious comforts, so much so, you’ll find it hard to leave.
Kandy
Full of life and colour, Kandy is one of the major cities in Sri Lanka, and one that must be visited. There are some iconic places in the city, such as Kandy Lake which is fairly peaceful and serene, considering its location in the very heart of the city. You’ll also find some beautiful temples to explore, such as Temple of the Tooth, and even on the days that it’s raining, Kandy still manages to maintain all of its charm.
The Theva Residency sits in the peaceful hills of Kandy and has one of the best views going. Romantic and serene you can gaze out across the valley to Kandy, watch the sun setting from their chill-out room or the peaceful infinity pool, all with a cocktail in hand.
There is so much more to do in Sri Lanka, so if you’re after more ideas, restaurant and experience recommendations, let us help you. Get in touch with the team here.