Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Although a compact island, Sri Lanka is incredibly diverse. Exploring on two wheels is the best way to see this rural country and to experience the way of life of its friendly people. We travel from ancient cities and the fortress at Sigiriya to the hill country towns of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, where the cooler temperatures and lush scenery make for a relaxing ride. In the south we visit Yala National Park, where we go in search of leopard, before ending the trip on the beaches of the beautiful south coast. Most of the route is a continuous ride, and transfers are kept to a minimum.

Accommodation on this cycling trip is a mixture of tourist-class hotels (some with pools) and local guesthouses. The guesthouses are simple but in good locations along the route and provide a real flavour of the country. The normal accommodations used on this trip can be found on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are a few of the notable places we stay.



Sigiriya: Hotel Sigiriya (nights 1-2)







This comfortable four-star property surrounded by nature is the perfect place to begin our adventure. Ease into the trip with a dip in the freshwater pool (which has near-unbeatable views of Sigiriya Rock) and relax in your spacious room with garden views.



Ella: Hotel Country Comfort (night 8)



Experience Sri Lankan hospitality with a stay at this traditional 20-room guesthouse, where the rooms are simple, and the welcome is warm. It has a 40-seat restaurant serving a mix of cuisines (specialising in traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry) and a bar with local and international drinks.



Yala: Chaarya Resort & Spa (nights 9-10)







Retreat into the wilderness at this four-star property close to Yala National Park, which has spacious chalet-style bedrooms with private balconies. Cool off in the pool, an oasis between the trees, or visit the spa for a welcome massage. The resort also has an al fresco and indoor restaurant serving international and local cuisines.



Ahangama: Insight Resort (nights 11-12)







Enjoy a spot on the beach, where it is possible to swim in the sea most of the time. Spacious rooms offer sea views and the quiet fishing village is an easy walk for those wishing to explore a local community.



Worth knowing



Wifi is available at most accommodations, either in the rooms or the communal areas.

Paying the single supplement may not mean you receive a double or twin room for sole use. The room you are allocated may differ from hotel to hotel, and on some nights a smaller room for ‘one person’ may be allocated.

The Nuwara Eliya hotel (Mirage Kings Cottage, nights 6-7) was selected for its character and pretty grounds, but the level of service is not always at the standard of the other hotels on this itinerary.