TO DO LIST
Visit the Lunuganga Estate
The late Geoffrey Bawa was the father of Sri Lankan architecture, with his distinctive style known as “tropical modernism”. You can visit his country home in Bentota, a former cinnamon estate and rubber plantation that he spent 40 years transforming into a fairyland of lush gardens, lily ponds, whimsical sculptures and secret nooks. Look out for bells dotted around the sprawling property, which Bawa would ring to let his staff know when he wanted his morning coffee or afternoon tea. You can take a guided tour of the gardens, enjoy a meal overlooking the lake, or even spend a night in one of Bawa’s six perfectly preserved suites.
Catch a wave
If you can bear to drag yourself away from the infinity pool, consider taking a surfing lesson in the swells of the Indian Ocean. The gentle southern coast is perfect for beginners, and you’ll be in safe hands with the extremely patient Steve from Tropicsurf, a surf school based at the Anantara Tangalle resort. All gear is provided, and you’ll be taken through the basics – like how to pop up on your board – before hitting the waves. At the end of your epic session, you’ll be rewarded with a refreshing coconut to sip on the beach.
See elephants in the wild
Udawalawe National Park in the south of Sri Lanka is home to around 500 Asian elephants, and is considered one of the best places in the world for spotting these gentle