Fancy yourself as a surfer, sipping on beach cocktails and exploring the plush jungle? Then Sri Lanka, the relatively undiscovered green teardrop in the Indian Ocean, needs to be at the top of your summer holiday list. Words by Sarah Barnes
Why go?
Hop off the airport tarmac and after a 30-minute drive from Galle Fort, through rich mountains and colourful local villages, you arrive at the manicured gates of Cape Weligama Resort. Located at the tropical southern tip of the island, this 5 star luxury hotel is a cocoon of bliss, beauty and relaxation.
Friendly staff scoot you and your luggage off in a buggy to your suite. (Even the junior suites are humongous!) Walk out onto your balcony with a welcoming cup of Ceylon tea and the ocean staring back at you. Now breathe…
What’s involved?
Perched on top of the rugged cliffs, the hotel is made up of 39 suites and 14 swimming pools, all set within 12 acres of beautiful landscape. Even though the resort is sprawling it still maintains a warm welcoming feel. All the buildings are coated in warm terracotta tiles that glow golden when the run rises and sets – even more reason to get up early and stay out late.
Pick from pool view suites to ocean villas, all done out in a modern style with large balconies for lounging and glamorous bathrooms, complete with walk-in steam showers, double sinks and baths you can almost swim in.
The infinity moon pool is the spot you will not want to leave. Curving 60m around the cliff top, you can float and gaze out to the sea and beaches below. When drying off in the sun order a mojito and fresh salad too munch on poolside- trust us it won’t disappoint.
Holidaying with kids? The Cove pool is nestled among the suites and perfect for splashing youngsters, whilst the Cybex gym and nearby sports centre on East Beach means working out and hiring surf boards is a breeze.
Dine at
Ocean terrace
A centre point of the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here so you can indulge in sea views while sipping on your morning coffee. The menu offers an abundance of local Sri Lankan dishes, Pan Asian foods and more traditional European plates. Everything is cooked fresh on site so make sure you try the pea masala, which you'll quickly find becomes a firm favourite.
Tableau
A special experience for holiday foodies. Sit up on tall chairs at the chef's table and watch as your dinner is prepared in front of your eyes by visiting culinarians from around the world (whilst sipping on cold bubbly, of course). No two menus are ever the same.
The Surf Bar
A more casual choice for when those midday munchies kick in. Sink into cosy wicker chairs plotted among the palm trees and watch the surfers. The fresh fish tacos and spicy fries are not to be missed!
You really must
Treat yourself to unwinding at the Spa
It's tough sunbathing and swimming all day… But when you're ready for the ultimate relaxation, book in at the Spa Villa. Your worries (and knots) will melt away after a traditional Sri Lankan spice scrub or essential oil massage. The trained therapists can also come to your private veranda instead. Two words: pure bliss.
Get beachy
Whether you are a surf pro or paddle board beginner, Sri Lanka is known for making waves. A five-minute walk from the hotel and you will find yourself on East Beach. Golden sands and palm trees provide the perfect basking environment, with pop up reggae beach bars ready to serve up cold beers and cocktails and tuk tuks on standby to drive you back after a long day surfing.
Enjoy the sunset at Cape Club
This is the idyllic spot for unwinding with after-dinner drinks and yet more glorious ocean views. You can also experience the famous Dilmah High Tea, a traditional Ceylon tea drinking ritual served with mini pastries and cakes.
To book
Visit www.resplendentceylon.com/capeweligama/ or email reservations@resplendentceylon.com
