Tri, Koggala Lake, near Ahangama

Tri is a design-orientated wellness hotel located on a six-acre hill beside mirror-still Koggala Lake on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Take a dip in the elongated swimming pool, book a lakeside yoga class or unwind with a soothing massage in the cinnamon-walled spa. The tranquillity of this secluded nature-rich setting is profound, yet Ahangama’s buzzy surf beaches, restaurants and bars are just a 15-minute tuk tuk ride away. Here, your guests can explore Koggala Lake by boat or its environs by bicycle.

Conceived by acclaimed architect Raefer Wallis of A00, Tri is a masterclass in organic design. This relaxing retreat near south coast Ahangama has been shaped in quiet conversation with the wildlife-rich lakeside landscape. Guided by the elegant geometry of the Fibonacci spiral, the architecture unfolds with the same effortless rhythm found in nature: the curve of a shell, the bloom of a fern, and the gentle pull of water around a stone. From the lofty central water tower, the space radiates with intention and flow.

Locally sourced cinnamon wood, living roofs, and verdant walls reflect Tri’s setting on a lush, woody lake-side peninsular, and the 15 guestrooms are sprinkled along the contours of the land. Of the six room types, their smallest are in the cinnamon-clad tower, offering bird-eye views of the surrounding forest and lake. Most are hidden-away in stand-alone villas – some with private plunge pools – pitched just above the water’s edge with private verandas for observing wildlife and absorbing this lakeside scene.

Tri’s restaurant celebrates locally sourced cuisine, with fish fresh from the lake and Indian Ocean, and vegetables harvested from local farmers to keep food miles low. Whether dining indoors or out, brunching beside the pool or pairing the blushing sky with rooftop sundowners, Koggala Lake and its lush environs remains a staple view.

Beyond its space as a retreat, Tri is also an exceptional venue for weddings and private events, lending itself beautifully to sunset ceremonies, elegant dinners and relaxed gatherings with family and friends.