Cape Weligama, Sri Lanka
After leaving the Hill Country and Ceylon Tea Trails, we went on a roadtrip to Cape Weligama, our next destination. After a few days of rolling hills of tea leaves and a misty surreal backdrop, it was time to head to the beach!
Cape Weligama is a sister property of Ceylon Tea Trails, so we went with their car transfer service. The car ride was very long, and then we learned to always add 2 hours to everything that requires driving. Upon arriving, we quickly forgot the car ride with refreshing drinks waiting for us. Our ride total was 7 hours, in case you’re wondering 🙂
If you plan on visiting one of their National Parks to see elephants and other wildlife, the Uda Walawe is on the way from Ceylon Tea Trails to Cape Weligama. So if you want to squeeze that in your itinerary, just be sure to leave at the crack of dawn to get to the park by 8a. As with Thailand, I always recommend visiting National Parks if you want to see wildlife. Sri Lanka’s National Parks have been closed to the public until 2010, so now is the time to visit!
This hidden gem, perched atop Weligama Bay, serves the same level of intimacy and luxury as Ceylon Tea Trails with its own distinct style. The rooms are incredibly spacious, with ridiculously large bathrooms, suites and balconies. For honeymooners and families alike, this is nothing but a win for privacy and a tranquil setting. You quickly understand why this is a Mr & Mrs Smith hotel.
Cape Weligama has two pools. One is the iconic Crescent Moon pool, designed by architect Lek Bunnag. This adults-only infinity pool offers panoramic views of Weligama Bay. The other is the Cove pool, catered to families. It’s the largest of the two with shallow ends around half of the pool, which our daughter loved so much. We couldn’t keep her out.
It also has private access to two beaches, if you want to peel yourself away from the sweeping views and pool. Breakfast and dinner are included in the rate, and if you want to dine out the hotel can arrange a cab or tuk tuk for you. It’s a 30 min cab ride to Galle if you want a bit of history and shopping as well.
From Cape Weligama, you can also take a day trip to Yala National Park. This is the park to visit for leopards, crocodiles, bird watching and of course, elephants. For shorter day trip ideas, you can take a tuk tuk to the nearest beach, Mirissa which is just 15 min away.
Galle Fort was one of our favorite spots from the trip. You need to visit Barefoot Ceylon! All of the textiles they sell are handmade by them, and with the textiles they make housewares, clothes and toys. Bring an extra bag to carry it all home, or buy a cute tote in one of the boutiques you will stumble upon while getting lost at the Fort. We came home with an overflowing collection of plush animals and table linens.
Another Mr & Mrs Smith hotel in the area that we loved is the Amangalla, the only hotel located in the historic Galle Fort, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was tough to choose between the two. Decisions, decisions. Mr & Mrs Smith’s travel specialists gave me good insight on what to choose based on my needs and wants, which is free when you book through them. Plus they match rates if you find them for less. Lots more honeymoon ideas and luxury boutique hotels this way.