We relax in premium resorts (mostly Sri Lankan-owned) and spend two nights in a rural glamping site plus two nights in a boutique hotel. The properties were chosen for their excellent location, comfort and style, whether lakeside in Habarana, overlooking the Ella hills (from a hot tub) or by the golden beach in Mirissa.



Negombo: Jetwing Blue (night 1)







On the sandy shores of Negombo, Jetwing Blue offers a picturesque first stop on our adventure. The beachfront property has contemporary rooms with either a private balcony or terrace. The resort has plenty of amenities too, including some of the best bars and restaurants in Negombo, plus two swimming pools, a spa and gym.



Habarana: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (nights 2-3)







Experience a rustic elegance at this four-star property. It was designed in the local rural village style, which helps it to blend into its natural environment. Situated close to the lake, you can sit outside the spacious bedroom on your veranda, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee while admiring the well-kept gardens and tranquil sounds of nature. The resort has a spa and outdoor pool to relax in after a long hot day.



Kandy: Cinnamon Citadel (night 4)







A brief stop in Kandy but not one to be missed at this four-star riverside property. A 10-minute drive outside the bustling city centre, this tranquil retreat has a river-view restaurant offering a wide selection of local and international cuisines. Enjoy a splendid view as you drink a fresh juice over breakfast – sure to leave you full of energy for the day ahead. The property also has a spa and gym plus an outdoor pool.



Gal Oya: Wild glamping (nights 5-6)







We stay in the historic village of Rathugala, surrounded by vegetation and misty hills. The lavishly designed tented lodges with fixed ensuite bathrooms at Wild Glamping Gal Oya come with a host of amenities, including a pool and restaurant. Enjoy an immersive experience here no other in this remote, unspoiled region of Sri Lanka as you find your inner calm.



Ella: EKHO Ella (nights 7-8)







In central Ella, EKHO is a boutique four-star hotel with only 14 rooms, offering the perfect spot to take in the picturesque (and possibly best) views of the Ella Gap. The restaurant offers indoor and al fresco dinning and there are loungers, daybeds and a hot tub on the sun terrace. The property is a stone's throw from town, which has plenty of shops and restaurants, and is close to popular hiking trails and attractions.



Tissamaharama: Chaarya Resort & Spa (night 9)







Retreat into the wilderness at this four-star property close to Yala National Park. It offers spacious chalet-style bedrooms with private balconies to take in the sounds of nature as you look out to the lush tropical gardens. Cool off in the pool, an oasis between the trees, or why not visit the spa for a welcome massage after some long travel days? The resort also has an al fresco and indoor restaurant serving international and local cuisines.



Weligama: Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa (nights 10-11)







Enjoy the beauty of the Sri Lankan coast while relishing in five-star hotel amenities, beachfront access and exceptional service. Unwind in the spacious rooms, which have private balconies, most with ocean views. Take advantage of the beachfront swimming pool and fitness centre or indulge at the luxurious Quan Spa. The resort is also ideally situated in the centre of Weligama Bay with safe waters for swimming, snorkelling and surfing.



Galle: Jetwing Lighthouse (night 12)







Fall asleep and wake up to the sound of waves rolling over the rocks as this five-star hotel looks out across the ocean. The property is well located, within a five-minute drive of the historic Dutch Fort in Galle, and has beach access from the hotel gardens for a more relaxing stay. Additional facilities include the Ayurveda and spa services, tennis court, swimming pool, and in-house boutique shops.



Colombo: Cinnamon Lakeside (night 13)







With Beira Lake as our backdrop, this is a scenic spot to end our adventure. Toast the trip in ColomBar, which serves local brews and more than 100 different types of arrack (a distilled spirit often made with coconut sap) or enjoy a game of pool in the elegant library. The property is also home to one of the largest swimming pools in the city, great for one last dip before your onward journey.