I’ll never forget arriving at Horathapola Coconut Estate in the early hours of the morning. Despite it being 4:30am, I was met with the warmest, most courteous welcome, a refreshing coconut water in hand and a delicate frangipani flower waiting on my bedside table.

After a few hours’ rest, I woke to a peaceful start to the day—a beautifully prepared breakfast set just outside my room, enjoyed entirely in solitude. The silence broken only by the gentle sounds of nearby farmers tending to the land, their cattle marked by the soft chime of bells as they moved through an estate home to over 10,000 coconut trees and a rich variety of crops.

Like all guests, I was invited to explore the estate itself once my travel peers arrived, gaining a deeper understanding of its rhythms and way of life. That evening, I was treated to a memorable meal made from organic ingredients, many sourced directly from the surrounding land—an experience that both grounding and deeply connected to the place.

The journey continues... 

From the breathtaking views at Aliya Resort & Spa overlooking Sigiriya, where I climbed the iconic rock fortress, to the cool, misty hill country, every stop over the next week felt unique. In the hills, I visited a tea factory to see first-hand how Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea is produced, before heading out into the rolling plantations where workers carefully picked leaves against a backdrop of endless green.

Staying up in the mountains brought a completely different pace—early mornings were accompanied by the sound of chanting drifting across the hills from nearby temples, creating a peaceful and almost surreal atmosphere. One of the most special moments of the trip was being welcomed into a local villager’s home for a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast—simple, authentic, and deeply humbling. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.

Adventure came in many forms... 

I trekked a section of the 200km Pekoe Trail through lush jungle, visited the impressive Ramboda Waterfall—Sri Lanka’s third highest—and explored a traditional spice garden, learning about the island’s deep-rooted connection to flavour and wellness.

In Kandy, I stayed at the historic Queen’s Hotel and visited the sacred Temple of the Tooth, soaking in the cultural and spiritual heart of the country. I also experienced one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, winding through tea plantations and misty hills. Nuwara Eliya was a highlight too as Sri Lanka's highest town often referred to as “Little Britain” due to its colonial history. The post office is a worthy stop by all visitors; not only an architecturally striking building, it's the perfect opportunity to send a postcard home. 

Wildlife and nature were a constant highlight...

At Kulu Safaris, I enjoyed a unique glamping experience that has to be experienced by all nature lovers. Highlights for me included the candlelit meal on the decking overlooking the lake where the only other light came in the form of fireflies, and waking at 6am for a peaceful kayak in waters containing water buffalo and the odd alligator (the team made sure we were perfectly safe). 

The team at Kulu Safaris are experts when it comes to the natural world, so it was a privilege to experience Yala National Park through their eyes. On safari we spotted vibrant blue-tailed bee-eaters, monitor lizards, and the fresh paw print of a baby leopard—we heard it nearby with its mother, but it remained just out of sight. En route there was a heard of wild elephants on the side of the road too. 

Moving onto the coast, before finally, the city...

The journey allowed time to slow down on the south coast at Weligama Bay, a laid-back haven that perfectly blends yoga retreats with a surfer’s lifestyle—an ideal place to unwind after days of exploration. Here we stayed at Kalukanda House, a luxury villa where peacocks, monkeys, kingfisher and woodpeckers visit daily.

Finally, in Colombo, I explored the city in a unique way with a Land Rover experience, taking in key sights including the base of the Lotus Tower, before staying at the newly opened Amari Hotel. That evening we had drinks on the rooftop and absorbed the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka's capital.

Who would I recommend Sri Lanka to?

I view Sri Lanka as the ideal opportunity for a tailormade trip, especially for honeymoons thanks to its varied landscapes and multitude of spa and boutique resorts, as well as it's close proximity to the Maldives (perfect for a twin-centre!). Alternatively, it's a great destination for families and couples who want culture and 'off the beaten track' experiences they wouldn't get anywhere else. 

At Travel Counsellors there's a number of ways you can visit Sri Lanka, whether it be tailormade with your own driver, or as part of a group trip. But one thing's for sure, this country's a reminder that sometimes the best way to understand a destination is simply to keep moving through it.

Intrigued to know more? Drop me an enquiry and be sure to follow me on socials!