Amanwella

Amongst the scent of white frangipani blossoms, the resort's 47m-long pool is a fabulous place to cool off and just next to it, the pavilion-style restaurant has a menu of seafood staples with a touch of Asian fusion. The Lounge Bar is breezy and laid back with views to match - a great spot for afternoon tea, and the library has a hearty selection of books. Enjoy soothing spa treatments in your suite using organic ingredients sourced from across Sri Lanka.

Uncluttered and with plenty of island chic, suites are crafted from local stone and timber with charcoal-coloured furnishings. Decorated in neutral, beige tones, there are glass doors to let natural light in as well as picture-perfect views of the sea. The pool suites have a plunge pool in private courtyards plus a terrace and outdoor dining area. The spa-like bathrooms come with a free-standing bathtub, monsoon shower twin vanities and a dressing area. Handy little details include beach mats, colourful rattan bags and the all-important mosquito spray.

Amanwella is in the happy position of having a national park in practically every direction. Search for the elusive leopard at Yala, scan the landscape for elephant at Uda Walawe or visit the elephant sanctuary where orphans are cared for and readied for the wild again. Enjoy sunset canapes at Amanwella's floating lounge in the scenic Mawella Lagoon as kingfishers swoop by. Head down the coast to visit the Mulkirigala rock temples, go turtle-watching at Rekawa Beach and snorkel in the temperate Indian Ocean.