Why House

With deep, shaded verandas and airy lounges where guests gather to chat with host Henrietta, the Why House quickly feels like home. The decor is authentic enough to belong in Sri Lanka while being eclectic enough to strike a unique note. Breakfasts are a buffet of homemade granola, buffalo curd and pancakes while family-style dinners are suitably Sri Lankan with a bevy of curries, hoppers and seafood barbecues. A tranquil yoga sala sits beside a T-shaped aquamarine pool - the perfect spot on a hot day.

Spread across the main house and a variety of garden villas, there are 10 rooms in total. Decorated with antique wooden furnishings and quaint, framed sketches, all are simply lovely. At the centre is a netted canopy bed, and French doors open onto a private terrace. In the main house, the bathrooms are especially large and have walk-in rain showers and dual sinks. Some rooms enjoy a private garden, while the largest room in the Garden Villa can accommodate four guests.

Make the most of a sunny day with a trip to one of the numerous stunning beaches. Protected by a coral reef, Dalawella is particularly fantastic for swimming all year round, not to mention a scuba diving! Travel to the UNESCO-recognised Galle Fort, where you'll wander amongst the crumbling ramparts and hear its history. Join Henrietta and her chefs for a master class in Sri Lankan curry making and, before tucking into dinner, be amazed by a show of local dance and music.