Santani, Werapitiya, near Kandy

Few resorts in the world can match Santani’s serene view-blessed setting, on an undulating hillside to the north east of Kandy. Channelling 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 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 space for sleep and private downtime, while shared facilities include a world-class spa, 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.

The resort opened in 2016 yet has already received numerous accolades: Condé Nast Traveller and Travel + Leisure named Santani one of the best new hotels in 2017, Tatler singled out its spa as one of the world’s best while Time included Santani in their list of the world’s greatest places. Santani also received a coveted Bawa Award for Excellence in Architecture.