In a scenic setting with fantastic views, this charming hotel puts just a palm-dotted terrace between you and the sea. Enjoy tasteful rooms and an excellent All Inclusive option at the former Kani Lanka Resort. Take a dip in the swimming pool and children’s pool with views of the sparkling Indian Ocean, and book yourself an indulgent spa treatment. Dine on delicious themed buffets in the main restaurant or head to the à la carte restaurant and two bars before enjoying evening entertainment.

With a river bank on one side, a sandy sea shore on the other and a freeform pool in between spacious gardens, this is a very popular hotel with great facilities and exceptional value. Float in the freshwater pool, try watersports on the lagoon in the hotel gardens and learn to dive at the PADI school (open from Dec01-Mar31). Dine at a choice of restaurants before sipping a nightcap at the airconditioned lounge bar.

An elegant oasis in the midst of bustling Colombo, this hotel is known for impeccable service and extensive facilities. At its heart is a magnificent atrium surrounded by fantastic facilities. Dine in fine restaurants, work up a sweat in the large fitness centre or gym, and play a game of tennis and squash. Shop til you drop at Crescat Shopping Centre and unwind with a relaxing treatment at Angsana Spa.

Elegant rooms, extensive gardens, super large pools and a sumptuous beach . . . Heritance Ahungalla has been restored to its former glory and is an excellent choice for a relaxed Sri Lankan beach holiday. Float in a swimming pool that seems to merge with the sea, or the serene pool in the gardens. Sip refreshing drinks at the poolside bar or 24-hour coffee shop, retreat to the air-conditioned library or let your hair down in the karaoke lounge or nightclub after dinner.

A scattering of private accommodation in a glorious tropical setting, the Ayurveda Pavilions, is a luxurious health resort, an ideal place to relax, indulge your holistic side and renew your mind, body and spirit. Ayurveda focuses on the balance of the five elements within the body. On arrival, have a complimentary consultation with the resident Doctor, who’ll suggest a programme tailored to your needs.

An intimate and beautifully designed hotel, this spacious and stylish property offers fine facilities in a superb location beside a stunning beach right in the heart of Negombo. Highly recommended. Relax in the open-air sea-view lobby, bar and main restaurant, or the air-conditioned à la carte restaurant. Relax in the infinity-edged swimming pool or second shaded pool, or get active at fitness centre or tennis court.

A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Jetwing Lighthouse was created by the late Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's iconic architect. Sitting on a glorious beachfront, this charming boutique hotel boasts excellent service with plenty of sightseeing nearby. After a dip in one of the swimming pools, tuck into lunch at the poolside bar and grill. Unwind in the steamroom and spa and play squash, tennis and table tennis before savouring fine dining at Cinnamon Room.

Enjoy the quiet surroundings of this stylishly refurbished hotel inspired by the sea, taking in wonderful ocean views from the restaurants, rooms and even the edge of the two infinity pools. Float in one of the two infinity pools, hit the fitness centre or relax on the beautiful sandy beach. After spending the day in the indulgent spa or playing table tennis, volleyball and darts, sample local and western dishes in the two restaurants and cocktails in the three bars.

Set amid a unique habitat close to Sigiriya, this deluxe boutique hotel is steeped in understated elegance. Vil Uyana means 'Water Garden’, and the resort was created with a wetland system on reclaimed agricultural land in the area's Dry Zone. It's a true haven for those whose love of nature is matched by a desire for luxury. This tranquil retreat's facilities blend with the natural habitat. Enjoy delicious meals at al fresco and fine dining restaurants and sip sundowners in the bar. Visit the wine cellar and get stuck in a good book in the open-air library lounge.

A famous name, a prime location and oodles of old-world charm make Mount Lavinia an excellent introduction to Sri Lanka. A wonderful setting for your beach stay, or as a night before or after you set off exploring on tour. This grand hotel was once the home of British governors and many of its public areas still ooze colonial-style elegance. Slip into the swimming pool for a relaxing dip and book a pampering treatment at the beauty salon or spa (at extra cost) before dining in a choice of restaurants.