Cape Weligama sits on 12 acres of terraced clifftop on Sri Lanka's south coast, about 30 metres above the Indian Ocean and some 26 kilometres from Galle. The Thai architect Lek Bunnag drew on the island's long history as a stopping place for seafarers, so the suites and standalone villas, with terracotta roofs, wide verandahs and tropical gardens, are laid out like a traditional village, with interiors that nod to Sri Lanka's maritime past. The villas cluster around private pools, and the larger ones divide into several suites for families. Two shared pools serve the resort: the Cove, near the Junior and Master Suites, with a separate children's pool, and the crescent-shaped Moon Pool on the cliff edge, for guests aged 12 and over. The Atlas serves Sri Lankan cooking with ocean views, The Society is the clifftop bar, and Tableau is a chef's table. There is a spa, a fitness centre and lookouts along the cliff, and the resort arranges surfing, whale watching and boat or kayak outings. It is a member of Relais & Châteaux, and the resort suggests four or five nights to see the south coast.
- Nearest airport
- Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, 174 kilometres, about two hours 45 minutes by road; a seaplane runs from Ceylon Tea Trails
- Rooms
- 39 suites and villas (MICHELIN Guide)
Insider tip Ask about the fully inclusive meal plan, which adds lunch and dinner at The Atlas and The Cove with house wines and spirits; children are welcome at the Cove Pool, while the Moon Pool is kept for those 12 and over.
Why I choose it A clifftop resort above the Indian Ocean near Galle, with villas on their own pools and a fine base for whale watching and the south coast.