Sri Lanka for Families & Friends

Arrive in Sri Lanka, and meet your chauffeur-guide who will whisk you to your first hotel, Rosyth Estate House. Rosyth is a lovingly restored planter’s bungalow that retains its private house feel in the countryside between Colombo and Kandy. You won’t necessarily have sole use here (as Rosyth has 10 rooms), but rooms can be connected to create your own space.

It’s a peaceful place to start the journey. Wander the estate, visit the nearby tea factory, relax by the pool, or simply soak up the hill country views.

Travel down to Kandy and board the morning train through the hills towards Ella, arguably one of the prettiest journeys in the world. At the station, your driver will take you to AMBA Tea Estate, a unique social enterprise tucked into the hills.

You’ll stay at Clove Tree House at AMBA, a 1930s bungalow with a lounge, dining room, terrace, and garden. It has a family suite and 2 twin rooms. Though perhaps a little more simple than the other accommodation included in the trip, this is a great social enterprise property where you can enjoy various activities, including a tea-making workshop, guided treks to hidden waterfalls, and Sri Lankan cooking classes using fresh, organic ingredients grown on-site.

During your stay, explore a scenic section of the Pekoe Trail with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll pass the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, surrounded by lush green tea plantations, and meet local tea pluckers and farmers who will share stories and insights into their craft.

Travel south to Kataragama and settle into a charming four-bedroom property near Yala National Park’s quieter Block 5.

Yala National Park’s Block 5 offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience than the more popular southern sections. It’s an excellent area for spotting elusive leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and various bird species. Your private game drives will allow you to move at your own pace, with expert guides tailoring the experience for your group.

Being so close to the park at the Warden’s House allows you to mix wildlife spotting with downtime. The nearby Kataragama Temple is also worth visiting.

Depart Kataragama, head to the South Coast nr Weligama, and check into Kalukanda House.

With four bedrooms, a large pool, beautiful gardens, and plenty of space, the property is perfect for families travelling together and is fully staffed. Designed in a charming colonial style, the property has spacious living areas, creating an ideal retreat to relax and reconnect. An additional bonus on the grounds is the yoga shala, where yoga or other wellness experiences can be arranged in the lovely breezy space.

Just outside the villa is Jungle Beach, an excellent spot for swimming, surfing or watching the sunset at the local cafe with drinks. You’re very close to Mirissa where you can take whale-watching trips in the spring. Further afield, take a train or tuk-tuk to nearby attractions like Galle. Join the chef on a market visit and cooking lesson, or relax and enjoy delicious meals on the veranda. A peaceful, private base for family adventures!

From Kalukanda House, it’s typically about 2.5 hours to get to the airport, so it’s possible to head home if you only have 2 weeks to spare. However, we’ve included a suggested stay in Colombo for added inspiration.

Head to Colombo for your last stay and check in to a beautiful four-bed property in a leafy neighbourhood in the heart of the city. The interiors feature Moroccan-inspired artwork and rugs, contemporary Sri Lankan creations, and timeless antiques. Outside, lush gardens, terraces, and cascading vines create a tranquil and exotic ambience.

On a tuk-tuk tour, you’ll weave through Kotahena, where you’ll find remnants of the country’s colonial past. A walk through the streets with your guide will open up the city’s culture, giving you an insight into the influences that have shaped the city over the centuries.