A hotel whose swimming pool has front-row seats onto Sri Lanka’s biggest and most magical monoliths, Sigiriya, is reason enough to visit. Add to this gorgeously modernist buildings landscaped around trickling streams and reflective lakes, a tranquil spa and a two-floored bar, and you’ve got one seriously peaceful hideaway. Hike up the cliff-face of Sigiriya to discover the extraordinary ruins of an ancient civilisation, then return for a  spa treatment, relax by the pool or enjoy Sri Lankan feasts featuring multiple mouth-watering curries.

A classic favourite for good reason, award-winning Kahanda Kanda should be on the itinerary for old-school romantics who are partial to views, good service and seclusion. Set on a hillside above Galle, spacious, colonial-chic pavilions have epic vistas over rustling palm tree forests, and private infinity pools are the spot to soak up a rainbow-streaked sunset accompanied by the occasional monkey or peacock. Guests are also encouraged to take the complimentary tuk tuk down to the beach for lunch and a swim at their beach side sister property, stylish KK Beach.

A stay here combines two of the finest pleasures of Sri Lanka. One being an iconic train journey through the twisty hills of the tea plantations – on your way to Nine Skies you’ll travel through one of the most famous rail stretches in the country across the viaduct and 360 degree loop which look back to the arches of the bridge. The other is the opportunity to gaze without interruption onto the vistas of Hill Country. At colonial tea bungalow hotel Nine Skies, views are paramount – either from the foliage-clad garden pool or private terraces that edge simple yet tasteful rooms.

The most highly sought-after hotel in Kandy, this ancestral manor house has rare availability this summer. A boutique hotel for over 200 years, and a verified trailblazer, Kandy House exudes tasteful comfort, and the free-flowing jungle growing around rocky outcrops gives a feel of undiscovered seclusion. At nearby Kandy, dose up on culture at the incense-swirled Temple of the Tooth, surrounded by devoted worshippers. Come home to this tranquil reclusive for happy hour by the pool, a 10-course curry feast and local Kandyan dancers.