Wattura Resort & Spa

Wattura Resort & Spa sits on Sri Lanka’s unspoilt west coast, perfectly placed for taking in stunning sunsets over the Laccadive Sea, and sheltered from the rest of the mainland by the winding course of the Gin Oya River.

Wattura's suites and villas combine a contemporary design with traditional Sri Lankan touches, like latticed wooden screens, weathered, colonial-style pillars and tiled floors. The Gin Oya Suites overlook the river through large floor-to-ceiling windows and feature outdoor plunge pools, while the opulent Wattura Residence has a rooftop infinity pool.

The hotel's restaurant, Pappali, is a beautifully designed space where a range of Sri Lankan, Indian and Arabian dishes are on offer. Start the day with a local breakfast of hoppers (rice pancakes) with curries, and see out the evening with a seafood dinner on the beach, or a romantic candlelit meal in a secluded spot in the hotel's gardens.

The elegant bar is the perfect place for a nightcap, with a wide selection of spirits, wines and beers in a scenic spot overlooking the ocean.

Wattura's spa is a lovely space to unwind, with an outdoor waterfall pool and a traditional pavilion villa where you can indulge in a range of rejuvenating wellness treatments. Massages and wraps use organic ingredients such as river mud and local herbs, to leave your skin feeling fresh. A steam room and temperature-controlled pools are among the other facilities.

There's no more relaxing way to explore the Gin Oya River than on a traditional wooden boat cruise, while you can also go deep-sea fishing and enjoy whale and dolphin-watching expeditions.

On dry land, elephants, sloth bears and leopards are among the animals you might spot on a safari in Wilpattu National Park, or head to the Kitulgala rainforest for jungle treks and whitewater rafting.