Sri Lanka, former Ceylon, is a country that condenses everything a tropical destination can offer: beautiful sandy beaches, mountainous regions covered with tea plantations, countless Buddhist sites, beautiful colonial remains, a rich and accessible wildlife, lively artisanal traditions and the legendary kindness of the locals.
This is why LUX was won over by this country, but also by the Relais & Châteaux circuit we present below:
And it’s with the beautiful Ceylon Tea Trails inland we begin, perched at 1,250 meters above sea level in the heart of the Ceylon tea growing region, near the classified site of the highlands of central Sri Lanka, the immersion is unprecedented. With one of the five authentic tea planters’ bungalows in the colonial style at maximum comfort at the height of this prestigious chain, our beginning of adventure was bathed in incredible panoramas. The chef, Ranil Yatagara, wrote in full the gastronomic experience that LUX has enjoyed: «There is no greater joy than to create a lasting memory through gastronomy, hoping that it will one day fill some of the nostalgia of our guests». This place offers an ideal setting for bike tours on the winding roads, with the breathtaking scenery of mountains, lakes and waterfalls in the background.
Our favorite bungalow ? The Tientsin. A superb colonial villa with 6 spacious rooms and tastefully decorated. We were charmed by the warm welcome, the unique service and the atmosphere of the place. A perfectly maintained English garden offering contemplative walks. To be tested absolutely: a traditional massage in room, open windows and pouring rain, followed by a bath with rose petals.
But what would Sri Lanka be without mentioning its beautiful beaches, that’s why our trip took us to the Wild Coast Tented Lodge, in the south-east of the island, which presents a truly unusual architecture in the heart of the Yala National Park. The twenty-eight tents and cocoons sporting a colonial style. Between jungle and Indian Ocean, they offering a unique experience that LUX uncovered for you.
Each colonial chrysalis is owns a private pool. It’s at the level of the main building that looks like one of the rocks on the shore where the restaurant is located. You can enjoy a modern version of traditional Sri Lankan dishes in the open air, and be amazed by this mix of spices with the rhythms of the waves. The nature aspect is characterized by the richness and diversity of the flora and fauna of this national park located close to the hotel.
A total immersion which will offer you a beautiful wild encounters in the heart of the complex. Always accompanied by a ranger to escort you in the evening, you can enjoy a total change of scenery in absolute safety.
The combination of these two Relais & Châteaux pearls has offered us an exclusive route of curiosities and a perfect introduction to this magical country. We were simply delighted.
