WILD COAST TENTED LODGE

RESPLENDENT CEYLON—THE hospitality arm of Sri Lanka’s premier tea brand, Dilmah—has created some beautiful resorts in the highlands of Bogawantalawa Valley and at Weligama on the island’s sun-kissed south coast. So it comes as no surprise that the latest addition to its portfolio is a knockout too. Set above a boulder-strewn shoreline near the entrance to Yala National Park, Wild Coast’s 28 cocoon-like tents are roomy and restful under their taut PVC membranes, with campaign furniture, copper bathtubs, and gauze-draped beds providing serious creature comforts. Tasty Sri Lankan dishes like buffalo curd–marinated kingfish are served in a domed pavilion where arched openings frame views of the Indian Ocean. But the real attraction is the wildlife. Yala is home to elephants, spotted deer, sloth bears, vivid birdlife, and—the animal everyone wants to see—leopards, and stays here include two game drives a day. Leopard sightings are by no means guaranteed, but the lodge’s guides ensure an entertaining and informative safari experience regardless. —94-11/774-5730; resplendent ceylon.com; doubles from US$894, all-inclusive