Ulagalla, Anuradhapura

Location

Ulagalla is set in a 58-acre estate outside the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that flourished as a political and religious centre for 1,300 years before being abandoned after an invasion in 993. Spread throughout the hotel’s grounds – among the peacocks and monkeys that roam here freely – are 20 gorgeous eco-villas, while at the centre of it all lies a 150-year-old mansion, a vast swimming pool and a heavenly spa sunk into a cavernous underground chamber. The modern version of Anuradhapura is just 30 minutes’ drive away; Sigiriya and Dambulla take about an hour to reach.

Accommodation

The 20 eco-villas offer fabulous views of the surrounding paddy fields, forest or lake. There’s one Nikawewa Villa, offering 1,200 square feet of space, two bedrooms, a living and dining area, and a swimming pool. The other Ulagalla Villas are over 850 square feet and offer private decks with secluded plunge pools, chic bathrooms with rain showers, exposed wood, high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Dining

The main restaurant at the hotel is Liyawela, which offers excellent Sri Lankan, Eastern, Western and fusion cuisine. There’s also an upper deck that affords captivating views of the green surrounding countryside. If you’d prefer you can opt for private dining, which allows you to eat wherever you choose – perhaps beneath the stars on your private terrace, or a delicious barbecue in the hotel grounds.

Facilities

Facilities at the hotel include bicycles that allow you to explore its 58 sprawling acres, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and an Ayurveda Spa offering a range of natural treatments. You’ll also find a doctor on call, 24-hour in-villa dining, a library, complimentary WiFi, and activities that stretch from kayaking to horse riding.