Santani Wellness Kandy, Werapitiya

Few resorts in the world can match Santani’s serene view-blessed setting, on an undulating hillside to the north east of Kandy. Channeling the concept of intelligent luxury where nature is king and service is everything, it’s one of those very rare places where you can truly escape the world. The pure natural surroundings energise the soul, and the purposefully minimalist eco-conscious architecture of this peerless wellness resort in Sri Lanka lets body and mind be at peace. Whether you stay for two days or 20, you’ll leave feeling reborn.

The 148-acre resort was designed according to the highest sustainability and eco principles. Many of the chalets jut out from the mountain and provide a calming, uncluttered and simplistic space for sleep and private downtime, while shared facilities include a world-class spa with hydrotherapy facilities, an infinity lap pool and a yoga pavilion. Those looking to indulge in wellness can choose a tailored package designed to pamper the body and inspire the mind. Away from the resort guests can go on nature walks and treks, and enjoy wild river swims.

The resort opened in 2016 and was named in the world’s best hotels lists of Condé Nast Traveller and Travel + Leisure. Vogue called it the best wellness retreat in the world, Tatler singled out its spa while Forbes named Santani in their list of the most unusual hotels in the world. Time included Santani in their list of the world’s greatest places. Santani also received a coveted Bawa Award for Excellence in Architecture.