Kayaam House

Tucked away from the world down a stone track, Kayaam House has plenty of character thanks to a collection of quirky and colourful items from across the globe, including a temple door from Jaffna and beautiful Dutch antiques. Set with locally-crafted teak tables that spill onto the terrace through high arches, the dining room serves an a la carte menu (but the chef will happily make anything you fancy) including four-course dinners — the rack of lamb really steals the show. Surrounded by tropical gardens, the pool leads down towards the beach and is a heavenly spot to while away a few hours.

There are just 8 rooms, all boasting high ceilings and sliding glass doors that open onto private verandas and the views of the jungle canopy or sparkling Indian Ocean. The style is authentic and understated with teak furnishings, four-poster beds and abstract local art. Certain rooms have a bathtub on the terrace (enjoy the fabulous views from between the bubbles), or you can book the Palm Residence for extra privacy: set in a secluded area of the garden, it even has a hot tub!

It’s perfectly tempting to spend every day lazing on the beach (and we do recommend doing so for a good amount of time) but there is also a fantastic selection of activities available. Enjoy snorkelling in the clear blue water, go kayaking in the lagoon, or learn to surf at nearby Blue Beach. It’s also worth taking a cycling tour of the local villages to see traditional Sri Lankan dishes and ingredients being prepared. Then, head to the spa for a stirring Balinese massage or enjoy a spot of yoga in the garden shala.