Kumu Beach

The infinity pool comes complete with sunken bench seating, swaying hammocks and a dazzling sea view. Just across the lawns, you'll find Kumu Beach's dining area, outside on the timber deck lined with lilies or in the coolness of the stylish cafe. Enjoy the all-day menu then swap it out for a la carte choices at dinnertime including Asian fusion, freshly-caught seafood and mouthwatering Sri Lankan curries. The communal lounge is a bevy of plump grey couches and artsy decor, and the Z Spa offers a selection of treatments drawing on the benefits of the island's famous teas.

With soft brown furnishings, blue batik cushions and herringbone rugs, the rooms at Kumu have a sublime feel. The Oceanview rooms/suites have four-poster beds draped in sheer netting with slatted teak headboards, large wardrobes and sunken lounges with wide picture windows. Each room opens onto furnished balconies or garden terraces with a view of the sea. The Kumu Bedrooms are smaller but come with twin beds and a rain shower. The en-suite bathrooms are lovely yet simple with pebble floors in the shower and double basins.

Soak up the views on Balapitiya Beach, take a dip in the sea (when it's not too rough) and snap a pic of the setting sun from boulders dotting the sand - this is the 'sunset coast' after all. Take to the water with a boat trip on the Madu Ganga, lined with mangrove forests, and stop at one of the fragrant cinnamon estates. If you visit in season, you can even see endangered turtles hatching at the estuary! In nearby Ambalangoda, visit a fascinating mask museum and have a go at carving your own.