Almost a year after the island nation first suspended international travel, Sri Lanka has opened its borders once again
For years, Sri Lanka was a well-kept secret in the travel community, welcoming only the adventurous who were seeking to expand their horizons. But since the last decade, the island nation has gone from hidden gem to highly sought-after. It’s all thanks to the country’s intriguing mix of untouched beaches, historic ruins, lush rainforests, tea plantations and flavourful food.
Almost a year after Sri Lanka first suspended international travel, the nation has opened its borders once again, welcoming visitors from countries around the world. Though there are no restrictions governing the duration of one’s stay, anyone visiting can only be accommodated in a government-approved hotel or resort for the first two weeks since arrival.
So if, like us, you’ve been pining for a dose of tropical shores, here are five absolutely charming hotels for your next break in Sri Lanka.
Sitting on a rocky outcrop on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort makes the most of its pristine surrounds. The gorgeous beach is fringed by coconut palms and overlooks the roaring Indian Ocean. Visitors to the resort have plenty to explore in the neighbourhood from rainforest treks to pilgrimage sites.
Santani refers to the Sanskrit phrase “in harmony with”. As the first and only wellness resort in Sri Lanka, this retreat has everything and more that you need to disconnect from the world and forget your troubles. Sounds like the perfect antidote to the wild year we’ve all been living! The property sits on a former 48-acre tea plantation surrounded by a lush forest, which serves as the perfect setting for secluded luxury.
Nestled in the heart of southern Sri Lanka’s palm-fringed jungles and tea plantations, Kahanda Kanda is a hidden gem that brings together culture, wellness and luxury combine. This boutique hotel offers only 12 individually designed villas (seven of which boast private pools), meaning it’s the perfect spot to social distance and enjoy seclusion in the lap of luxury.
Surrounded by a lush green forest, Heritance Kandalama promises secluded luxury in the heart of nature. A visit to this stunning retreat is sure to leave you relaxed and recharged. But most of all, it will leave you with a fierce urgency to return.
Reopening this week, Anantara Kalutara Resort boasts a secluded beachfront setting on the picturesque southwest coast of Sri Lanka. At the confluence of the Kalu Ganga River and the Indian Ocean, this resort promises a truly spectacular setting for a remarkable getaway.