Visiting Sri Lanka took me a while. It had been on my travel bucket list for years, but due to various circumstances, I only recently managed to visit. I had planned to stay for 3 weeks, but ended up staying for 4 months. I explored the island from top to bottom, simply because I felt in love with it. So much so, that every two weeks, I extended my stay just to soak up a bit more of the sun, lush greenery, and the genuine smiles of the people of Sri Lanka.
If you’ve gotten to know me a bit, you’d know that revisiting the same places isn’t something I do often. But I can honestly say, hand on heart, that I’ll definitely be returning to Sri Lanka, and I’ve already planned it within the next few months.
Observing your reactions on my Instagram while showcasing all these marvels: national parks where you can encounter elephants, exceptional beaches perfect for surfing, colorful temples, and the most incredible boutique hotels, I know that you too have fallen in love with Sri Lanka. In the meantime, I’ve received hundreds of messages from you, saying that my posts have inspired you to plan your own trips.
That is why, I’ve prepared for you a whole series of practical guides about traveling to Sri Lanka:
- Pidurangala Rock or Sigiriya Rock – which hike is better and how to organize it?
- Udawalawe National Park safari in Sri Lanka – how to organize it and what to expect
- Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka – how to make it an unforgettable experience
- The train journey from Ella to Kandy – the most wonderful rail journey in the world
- Unforgettable train journeys across Sri Lanka
The question of where to stay in Sri Lanka to feel like in a fairy tale and experience truly beautiful moments was one of the most frequently asked by you. I am delighted to share with you my subjective selection of the most exceptional accommodations in Sri Lanka. I have chosen them after months of staying on the island, and they are my favourites <3
Enjoy!

Hotels by the ocean
Villa Océane
Villa Océane in Sri Lanka was one of the first ones I visited. After a very intense year, I needed a few days of peace, tranquility, and recharging. That’s when I found this place, and it was spot on. This small boutique hotel is an absolute oasis of calm.
The villa is tastefully decorated, with every detail carefully considered. The interiors exude elegance and comfort, making me feel at home yet surrounded by luxury.
There are rooms available on both the ground floor and the upper floor with terraces. I chose the ground floor, and it was a fantastic decision because I could step out of the room directly to a beautiful pool, and after just three meters, I would reach a small, intimate beach.



One thing I absolutely loved about this place was the lack of a separate restaurant area – meals are served to guests on private terraces by their rooms. It creates a wonderful sense of intimacy and customization – every day, you get to enjoy a royal breakfast at your preferred time, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the ocean. And let me tell you, the breakfasts are incredible! Homemade baked goods, fresh fruit, and superb coffee. What more could you ask for?
In my opinion, these aspects contribute to the luxury of hotels.
From Koggala Airport to the Villa Océane residence, you can reach in just 34 minutes, so I believe it’s the perfect place to start your journey in Sri Lanka. This place will be a great choice for adults, for couples on a romantic getaway, and definitely for those seeking peace, tranquility, and exclusivity.
Oh, and one more important thing to note – there’s one of the best surfing spots in the area right in front of the hotel. So even if you’re not into surfing yourself, you can still enjoy watching others while having breakfast or lounging by the pool.



Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa
In my opinion, Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa is not just a luxurious resort, but a true paradise for the senses and soul. The location of this place is truly exceptional, as the villas stand right by the ocean, offering breathtaking views.
The property located on a pristine stretch of beach near the charming town of Mirissa is one of the most exceptional places in the area. It is situated 130 km southeast of Colombo, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from the international airport.




I highly recommend the Ocean Signature Suite – it’s an absolutely amazing upstairs apartment with ocean view. For me, waking up in such a place was a truly exceptional experience, and I was sad to leave.
I can’t help but mention the famous 43-meter infinity pool, filled with seawater, the largest one in Sri Lanka. Let me tell you, swimming in it under the stars is a cosmic and surreal fairy tale. Whether it’s for this wonderful apartment with a view or for the pool right by the ocean’s edge, it’s worth coming here.
The hotel also features a fantastic spa with a wide selection of massages. The rituals and beauty treatments were perfectly tailored to individual needs.
Breakfast is served on the room terrace and is phenomenal. The same goes for lunch or dinner. I didn’t have better grilled tuna throughout my stay in Sri Lanka!


Cinnamon Bentota Beach
Cinnamon Bentota Beach was a discovery for me! Although it’s not a boutique hotel but rather a large resort, you don’t feel it at all. Its architecture and location in a splendid garden give you a huge sense of intimacy and tranquility, making it a truly relaxing place.
The resort is nestled along the breathtaking Indian Ocean, just 500 meters from what I believe to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka – Bentota Beach.



Surrounded by palm gardens and a meandering river, Cinnamon Bentota Beach is a tropical paradise on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The history of this luxurious seaside hotel dates back to the 1960s when it was designed by one of Asia’s most influential architects, Geoffrey Manning Bawa. This unique design lends an incomparable charm to the place.
Moreover, the entire area enhances the experience because it’s the so-called Gold Coast, a blend of diverse attractions, historical landmarks, and cultural sites.



The Deluxe Luxury Ocean Suite where I stayed is situated on one of the upper floors and is absolutely delightful – spacious and elegant, with a separate living area, bedroom, huge bathroom, and breathtaking views of the river, garden, and the ocean.
What can I say – the views from hotels in Sri Lanka are the whole another level.



Meals are served buffet-style. There are actually three dining halls, each with its own buffet spread featuring specialties of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and international dishes. The culinary offerings were diverse and excellent. Every meal here is carefully prepared using fresh, local ingredients and served by excellent staff.
The hotel and its surroundings offer a range of attractions ensuring entertainment and relaxation. You can relax by the pool, enjoy spa treatments, or engage in water sports. Everyone will find something for themselves here, which, in my opinion, makes this hotel a great choice for both couples and families. It’s a truly a beautiful place!


Hotels in the jungle
Malabar Hill
When I thought I already had a grasp of the style of boutique hotels in Sri Lanka, I came across Malabar Hill and its oriental ambiance.
Nestled on the slopes of the picturesque mountains, this unique resort offers extraordinary views of the surrounding forests and valleys.




Inspired by a travel life, designer Lawson Johnston drew his inspiration from Sri Lanka and the surrounding regions, which formed the basis for the 10-year design process of Malabar Hill.
As a result, Malabar Hill is a tribute to unique design and craftsmanship, ranging from locally handmade roof tiles and terracotta floor tiles to the restoration of wooden doors and windows.



Thanks to its complete integration with the surrounding nature and the use of sustainable, locally sourced materials, the design provides an open space while maintaining a modern character. These features, combined with antique interiors and individually crafted furniture, create a luxuriously bohemian style.



Twelve exclusive villas have been nestled in the natural landscape, offering both scenic views and comfortable privacy. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto private terraces with infinity pools. Each villa has been designed with Sri Lanka’s heritage in mind, which is perfectly reflected in the finishing details. In fact, the hillside villas are so self-sufficient that if you don’t want to, you don’t have to leave them at all, and the private dining service will only make it easier for you.




I’m not encouraging that at all, because the place is phenomenally designed, with plenty of walking trails, offering fantastic yoga sessions in the garden and fabulous spa treatments. Not to mention one of the most beautiful infinity pools I’ve had the pleasure of swimming in, nestled amidst a magical garden and surrounded by miles of dense jungle.
The Hill House Restaurant is renowned for its superb, elegant, and sustainable cuisine. Its menu draws inspiration from both Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage and the warm Mediterranean shores, utilizing the island’s abundance of ingredients to the fullest. From artisanal cheeses to world-famous spices and the freshest produce from the daily market, the restaurant offers a rich gastronomic experience. You can start your day with buffalo curd, enjoy a fiery chickpea curry for lunch, and indulge in fresh seafood for dinner sourced straight from the Indian Ocean. With its exceptional dishes, curated wine selection by the sommelier, and unmatched location, the Hill House restaurant is a feast for both the body and soul. And the service is absolutely top-notch!
Also, don’t forget about the afternoon cocktail in the stunning bar made of exotic wood. It’s those little moments of luxury that Malabar Hill has to offer.



However, what really distinguishes Malabar Hill is its blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. The restaurant serving exquisite dishes, the impressive infinity pool, luxuriously appointed villas – all of these make a stay here a true sensory delight.
Malabar Hill, located in the southern province of Sri Lanka, is situated amidst cinnamon and rice fields, just a stone’s throw from the coast. It’s an ideal location that allows you to admire the surrounding jungle from every corner of the hotel. It’s truly a unique property worth visiting. It was definitely one of my favorites!
It’s a perfect place for adults, offering tranquility and a romantic getaway.




Kurulu Bay
Kurulu Bay in the dictionary could be a synonym for peace and harmony. It’s located in the southern part of the island in a charming bay, Kurulu Bay (Sinhalese “bird island”).
It offers a view of the largest lake in Sri Lanka – Koggala Lake. This extraordinary boutique hotel is surrounded by lush greenery, and every element of it has been carefully designed to provide space, privacy, and tranquility, with an emphasis on health and well-being.
On the private, undulating terrain, there are 14 apartments and cottage houses, each with its own character and architectural style. They are designed to foster a sense of closeness to the surrounding nature. Meanwhile, the existing Kurulu House combines the architectural style of 1960s Florida with Geoffrey Bawa’s tropical modernism – modern rooms and apartments were designed by award-winning international architects from A00.



In my opinion, it’s the perfect place to slow down and take care of yourself. Every day, you can enjoy excellent yoga and meditation classes, and invigorate your senses with holistic spa treatments. The grounds are designed in such a way that you can contemplate the closeness of nature from every spot: the garden, villas, or pool.
The Kitchen restaurant at Kurulu Bay relies on local ingredients. There’s a great emphasis on the quality of ingredients sourced sustainably from the surrounding areas. Only organic oils and ingredients are used to prepare simple yet elegant dishes, distinguished by their exceptional flavors. The restaurant and open kitchen are beautifully designed, and the service is impeccable. My first association was the movie “Menu,” but in this case, it’s only in a positive sense!
I was particularly impressed by the spa and the morning yoga sessions on the terrace overlooking the river. It’s a superb place for revitalizing both body and soul.


King’s Pavilion Kandy
King’s Pavilion Kandy is like a royal oasis on the hill overlooking the charming city of Kandy. I fondly recall strolls on the terraces of this exclusive location with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
In this establishment, you have a choice between spacious villas and huge apartments. I stayed in a villa surrounded by dense tropical gardens. I felt like I was living there alone, in the heart of the jungle. The hotel is furnished with beautiful, traditional Kandyan-style furniture, which harmoniously blends with modern luxury elements, making it a top-notch hotel.
The bathroom was enchanting – vast, with a boho style and a delightful bathtub for relaxing baths after a day exploring the trails around Kandy.
During my visit to the hotel restaurant in Kandy, I had the opportunity to indulge in dishes worthy of a royal table. The restaurant serves traditional Sri Lankan cuisine as well as exquisite dishes from various parts of the world.
Not only do the luxurious amenities make King’s Pavilion exceptional, but also its history and heritage, which delve deeply into the culture and tradition of Sri Lanka, creating a unique atmosphere of royal hospitality. In this place, I felt like a true queen.


Uga Ulagalla
Uga Ulagalla is situated amidst ancient ruins and the lush nature of the island, offering an ideal location surrounded by extraordinary landscapes and cultural treasures. Upon arriving at Uga Ulagalla, I felt transported to another era. Spread across 58 acres of land, there are 25 villas styled after Kandyan villages, each with its private pool. They encircle a 150-year-old mansion, steeped in history and cultural heritage. This place radiates tranquility and harmony, offering a touch of luxury in the heart of the wild.
The villas leave a huge impression and are among the most luxurious in Sri Lanka.


With enormous king-size beds, comfortable sofas, wooden floors, and spacious terraces, there’s no desire to venture further.
The views are also breathtaking – lush, green rice fields, bustling, vibrant jungle, or tranquil lake with the calming sound of water.
The hotel also offers plenty of attractions – animal safari, nature walks, and horseback riding. By the way, horses roam around the property, which is a truly beautiful sight.
Importantly, the Uga Ulagalla hotel in Anuradhapura is only 30 minutes away from the archaeological excavations in Anuradhapura. Additionally, it is just an hour’s drive to the great Sigiriya rock fortress, which is currently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Therefore, it’s an excellent base for exploring the treasures of Sri Lanka while being close to nature in a beautiful setting.
I have a bit of regret about this place because my stay was too short, and I would have loved to stay a few more days.
If you’re planning a visit to Sigiriya, I encourage you to check out my article, where you’ll find useful information and tips for preparing for the trip: Pidurangala Rock or Sigiriya Rock – which hike is better and how to organize it?




Hotels on a Tea Plantation
Stafford Bungalow
My cherry on top at the very end, because Stafford Bungalow has a different atmosphere than the other places I’ve described. Different and absolutely wonderfully unique. Above all, it’s a true gem hidden among the picturesque tea plantations in the mountainous area of the island. The moment I stepped into this historic estate, I felt as if I had been transported to the era of colonial discoveries and adventures.




Every corner of this charming place exudes history and tradition. The rooms, carefully restored, retain the spirit of bygone eras while offering modern comfort and amenities. Through the window, you can admire the endless tea plantations, that are truly breathtaking.
At Stafford Bungalow, I not only relaxed amidst nature but also learned a great deal about tea production and the local traditions. Tours of the plantation and visits to nearby historical sites are just a few of the unforgettable experiences that await guests here.



This is a place where modernity intertwines with history, and every step feels like a journey through time. Stafford Bungalow is more than just a hotel to me – it’s a magical sanctuary where memories are created for a lifetime.
Initially, it was a coffee plantation, which was later converted into a tea plantation. The main bungalow of the Stafford estate was constructed in 1834 as the residence for pioneering Scottish tea planters, Sir G.H.D. Elphinstone and J. Paterson Senior. This main bungalow provided them with a vantage point offering the best views of the estate and its surroundings, a feature that remains unchanged to this day.


I highly recommend choosing the Owners Cottage for your stay. This delightful, detached cottage with two bedrooms, each with a double bed, is nestled on a hill surrounded by gardens. It grants access to the dining pavilion and is tailored for those craving privacy and ample space. I adored savoring morning tea here, amidst the birdsong and the refreshing mountain breeze.
There’s another aspect here that completely captivated me: the bathtub in the bathroom, positioned by a window that overlooks a verdant garden full of bird-of-paradise flowers. If you can imagine a perfect, cinematic shot – this would be it. It continues to linger in my dreams, and I fantasize about having such a sanctuary in my own home one day.


I also need to tell you about the culinary journey offered at Stafford Bungalow. It starts with a welcoming hot chocolate infused with cinnamon, and then every meal served is crafted from the freshest ingredients sourced from the garden and nearby farms. Breakfasts are served on the green lawn, and you can linger over them indefinitely (it’s hard not to!), while dinners take place in a pavilion illuminated by candlelight. The idea of pairing tea with dishes is also brilliant. It’s served during and after meals, in palate-cleansing sorbets, in main courses, or even in desserts. Everything at Stafford is harmonious and meticulously planned.



If you need more visual inspiration and want to see the places more closely, visit my Instagram @travel_and_keep_fit – all the stories from Sri Lanka are highlighted under the name “Sri Lanka”.