Sri Lanka
Cape Weligama
Cape Weligama, a Relais and Chateaux resort, sits on a clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean, a polished collection of villas and suites with expansive, ocean views. The crescent-shaped infinity pool steals the show, complemented by a well-equipped spa and seafood-focused dining. It’s an easy base in Galle, whale watching, and slow afternoons in the sun. 9.8
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Wild Coast Tented Lodge is a stylish safari camp on the edge of Yala, where cocoon-like tents hide among dunes and scrub. Expect clever design, a lovely pool, and a strong focus on wildlife experiences. The vibe is adventurous but comfortable, with leopard tracking by day and candlelit dinners under big skies at night. A Relais and Chateaux resort. 9.9
Ceylon Tea Trails
Ceylon Tea Trails is a collection of restored planters’ bungalows in Sri Lanka’s tea country, where misty hills and emerald estates set the pace. Days are gentle, with guided walks, tea tastings, and fireside dinners served with quiet care. The vibe is intimate and old world, perfect for slowing down between Kandy and Hatton. 9.9
Water Garden Sigiriya
Water Garden Sigiriya feels like a contemporary oasis, with sleek villas set around lily ponds and views of Sigiriya Rock rising in the distance. Interiors are calm and modern, many with plunge pools. There’s a good spa, thoughtful dining, and space to breathe. It’s ideal for cultural exploring with a retreat like finish. 9.8
Uga Ulagalla
Uga Ulagalla is a peaceful countryside estate near Anuradhapura, where modern pool villas sit among paddy fields and forest. Days can be as active as you like, with cycling, horse riding, and wildlife excursions, or as slow as the spa and infinity pool. The vibe is quietly luxurious, ideal for families and nature lovers. 9.6
Sheraton Colombo
Sheraton Colombo is a reliable city base with a breezy, luxury international feel, moments from the oceanfront and Colombo’s commercial pulse. Rooms are straightforward and comfortable, with an outdoor pool for humid afternoons, a well equipped gym, and multiple dining options. The vibe is business friendly, easy, and quietly convenient. 9.8
Shangri-La Colombo
Shangri La Colombo is a glossy waterfront stay with big Indian Ocean views and easy access to the city’s modern side. Rooms are sleek and spacious, the pool is a welcome escape from the heat, and dining ranges from casual to special occasion. The vibe is polished and family friendly, with Galle Face and shopping close by. 9.4
Hilton Yala Resort
Hilton Yala Resort sits near the wild edges of Yala National Park, a comfortable base for early jeep safaris and late golden light. Contemporary rooms open to garden or lagoon views, with a generous pool, spa treatments, and relaxed all-day dining. The mood is easy, nature-forward, and family friendly too. 9.8
Uga Chena Huts
Uga Chena Huts is a glamorous little hideaway between jungle and beach, minutes from Yala’s park gates. Thatched cabins come with plunge pools and a real sense of privacy. Expect attentive service, a strong spa, and evenings under lantern light after leopard safaris. The vibe is rustic chic, intimate, and beautifully wild. 9.8
Santani Wellness
Santani Wellness Resort near Kandy is a minimalist sanctuary in the hills, built for proper switching off. Simple, airy chalets face green valleys, while days revolve around yoga, Ayurveda inspired treatments, and quiet thermal pools. Food is light and thoughtful. The vibe is disciplined but kind, ideal for a reset before returning to Sri Lanka’s bustle. 9.6
Thotalagala
Thotalagala is a beautifully restored tea planter’s bungalow in the Haputale hills, where antiques, fireplaces, and lawn views set an unhurried pace. Rooms feel elegant and personal, with attentive hosts and excellent Sri Lankan inspired cooking. Days are for tea estate walks and misty drives. The vibe is intimate, nostalgic, and quietly indulgent. 9.8
The Fortress Resort & Spa
Koggala, Galle.
The Fortress Resort and Spa sits on Koggala Beach near Galle, a sleek, design focused escape with a hint of drama in its architecture. Rooms are spacious, some with direct pool access. Expect a calming spa, strong dining, and oceanfront pools. The vibe is grown up and relaxed, ideal for coastal downtime between sightseeing. 9.4
Kahanda Kanda
Kahanda Kanda is a hilltop hideaway above Koggala Lake, where breezy villas come with private pools and far reaching jungle views. It’s adults only, quietly glamorous, and deeply restful, with thoughtful service, a lovely infinity pool, and unfussy, excellent food. Galle’s fort and beaches are close for day trips. 9.6
All hotels & resorts on The Five Star Edit are independently selected by our editors. However, as an affiliate partner, we may earn small commissions when you complete a booking made through our links. This is paid to us by the advertiser, not by you and does not affect the price of your booking in any way.