PA RT N E R S P OT L I G H T : S R I L A N K A JETWINGVIL UYANA Sigiriya Retreat to a private nature sanctuary where wildlife, considerate architecture and community come together. In acres of reclaimed fertile lands, reminiscent of the region’s agrarian ancestry, you can allow the clock to stop. Sitting in the shadow of the ancient fortress of Sigirya, a UNESCO World Heritage site where legendary kingdoms once ruled, this is the perfect spot for tranquility after a day of ancient culture. Rest in your own dwelling teeming with homespun luxuries, or venture to the Ayurveda Spa & Wellness Center or charming plunge pool. JETWING KADURUKETHA Wellawaya Venture back in time in rural Sri Lanka, as you embrace a stay in a sustainable resort reminiscent of a traditional village. Tucked away in rolling hills and lush paddy fields, this unexplored world invites you to enjoy exceptional hospitality. Luxury and rustic merge as you find serenity sitting by shimmering freshwater streams, relaxing in the spa or swimming pool. For those seeking a more active hideaway, you can go chasing waterfalls and hike to local villages, go birdwatching, head out on nocturnal wildlife trails, or help with harvesting on organic farmland. Pearl of the Ocean Dip into the teardrop island of Sri Lanka and visit sleepy fishing villages, golden beaches, sprawling paddy fields, tea plantations and bustling towns teeming with history. 36 enchantingtravels.com/pearloftheocean THE WALLAWWA Kotugoda Start or end your Sri Lankan holiday in style with a stay in The Wallawwa, an award winning 18th century manor house hotel set in serene tropical gardens. It's within easy reach of Negombo's old Dutch fort and a network of canals and mangrove-fringed lagoon to be explored by boat. If you can tear yourself away from the pool, then lively fish markets, an ancient Buddhist temple, a world-renowned cigar factory, and an elephant sanctuary are close by. FORT BAZAAR Galle Fort Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the pinnacle of living history. As you wander narrow, cobbled streets lined with churches and former spice warehouses, find yourself transported back to the 17th century. Stay at Fort Bazaar, a re-defined merchant’s house. Boutique style evokes antiquity, with grand four-poster beds, contemporary amenities and mouth-watering gourmet dining. Each day is yours. Craft traditional masks with a local artist or discover Galle’s glittering gems during a private visit to a sapphire mine. Head to nearby Mirissa for blue whale watching, or cycle through the surrounding green paddies and palms on a guided tour. Bliss! KUMU BEACH Balapitiya Along Sri Lanka’s sunset coast lies a little ocean of calm, where coconut palm trees sway and powder-soft sands are just a footstep away. Kumu Beach is a contemporary resort with indulgent guest rooms, where the sound of the sea is your soundtrack. Personalized service is on hand as you bask in green lawns and the infinity swimming pool. Take long beach strolls, swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, or experience lagoon water sports. Visit nesting turtles at a beachside hatchery, take a boat trip to wildlife-filled wetlands, and discover the striking former estate of legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa. TALK TO OUR EXPERT Prathima Rijhwani prathima@enchantingtravels.com RECOMMENDED ROUTE Sri Lanka’s Heritage Cities and Unspoiled Landscapes (15 days) Negombo (1 night) Sigiriya (2) Kandy (2) Hatton (2) Udawalawe National Park (2) Balapitiya (4) Galle Fort (1) Negombo (0) Best time to go: NOV to APR From $ 5,090 / person 37 GO SLOW 37 Beaches Nature Relaxation Culture