Where am I – paradise! aka Sri Lanka.
Destination – Colombo, Kandalama, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Weligama, Galle & Negombo.
Duration – Just over two weeks.
Suitable for – Our trip was definitely perfect for a couple, but there’s something on the island of Sri Lanka for absolutely everyone.
Highlights(s) – We loved the tranquil setting of the Geoffrey Bawa designed Heritance Kandalama. From the wild elephants roaming the grounds to the pan flute playing musician that set up each evening to serenade the sunset, it was just unforgettable.
Though a challenging climb - mainly due to the heat - climbing to the top of Sigiriya ‘Lion’ Rock was another major standout. The ancient rock fortress, developed between 477–495 AD, looms large across the landscape and if you have time (and the inclination to get up early), is perhaps best viewed at sunrise from nearby Pidurangala Rock.
A big thunderstorm rolled across town on our first night at the Elephant Stables in Kandy - and I’ll never forget how lovely it was to be perched up on the hill at that beautiful colonial villa, partaking in a refreshing local G&T and about to enjoy an impeccably prepared Sri Lankan feast from their very talented chef Indika.
Ella was a fun town, and 98 Acres undoubtedly the place to stay; gorgeous outlook across a tranquil valley toward Little Adams Peak (which you can easily climb directly from the property.) The whole town has an almost Bali / Thailand buzzy young feel, and 98 Acres have embraced this by developing a rather lovely ‘Pool Club.’
Certainly the standout in terms of luxury was our stay at the Uga Chena Huts, the closest property to Yala National Park (which is right next door.) This proximity means they frequently have animals traversing through the property on their meanderings to and from the park itself. Only 18 “huts”, all with a private pool, impeccable service and fully inclusive of all meals / drinks and safari game drives…ours even had direct beach frontage!
The UNESCO Galle Fort was such fun to walk around. We stayed at the Fort Bazaar (part of the Teardrop Hotel collection) and actually getting to stay within the fort itself was a treat, especially when the daytrippers had left for the day and the streets came alive with local hustle and bustle.
Recommendation (fav meal / drink) – The nightly dinner buffet at Heritance Kandalama was something else! Abundant and delish, we were even given a behind the scenes tour of the enormous kitchen - they are very rightfully proud of the food offering here.
Afternoon Tea at Amangalla, was a super indulgent treat in a beautifully historic setting. There are lots of good dining options here in Galle, the Bungalow was one of our favourites.
We spent two weeks with our driver and friend Lalith from Tour Blue - our Sri Lankan specialist partner. Nearing the end of our time in Sri Lanka, we were honoured to be invited to his home for a delicious home cooked lunch and to meet his family.
