From the Maldives and Mauritius to Oman, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles and Sri Lanka, these dreamy resorts are made for a long Eid weekend.
The Eid Al Adha break is the perfect excuse to swap the city for a luxurious escape. Whether you want overwater villas in the Maldives, desert retreats in Saudi Arabia, beachfront bliss in Oman or private-island seclusion in the Seychelles, FACT has found the hotels worth booking for the Eid Al Adha holidays. Expect indulgent spas, sparkling pools, standout restaurants and scenic stays designed for rest, adventure, and family time.
Maldives
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is great for Eid Al Adha holidays – it’s in a largely untouched part of the Maldives, which makes for a more secluded stay. Located a 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé, on the northern edge of Raa Atoll. The property boasts 44 beachfront villas and 36 overwater villas, all of which have pools and a sun deck. While the treetop spa adds to the castaway vibes. Snorkellers and divers will be drawn to the location, as it has marine life ranging from colourful coral to manta rays. Plus, excursions to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, are available. The restaurants range from Mediterranean cuisine at Seasalt to Japanese-inspired flavours at Umami.
Where: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Kothaifaru, Maldives
Contact: www.hyatt.com
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is a palm-fringed, garden-island escape in the North Malé Atoll, reached by speedboat from Malé. Thatched-roof beach bungalows and overwater villas frame a turquoise lagoon, while days unfold between dolphin cruises, reef adventures and family-friendly activities. Surfers come for the resort’s Tropicsurf coaching and quick access to big breaks, and wellness seekers retreat to The Island Spa, set on its own tiny isle. Come sunset, linger over Indian flavours at Baraabaru or relaxed oceanfront dining before stargazing on the sand. The mood is barefoot-luxe, with attentive service and an easy, sunlit rhythm throughout.
Where: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort and Spa is a top-notch, family-friendly resort for your Eid Al Adha holidays. Situated in North Malé Atoll, it’s a 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. What sets this apart is that it’s an all-villa resort, and all 109 rooms have their own pool. The resort describes itself as a family-friendly getaway, with villas that can sleep up to six people. Plus, it boasts a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a rooftop lounge for teenagers.
Where: Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, Malé, Maldives
Contact: www.hilton.com
Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island
As the Maldives is a popular destination for Middle Eastern travellers, it is no surprise that the UAE’s Jumeirah Group opened a resort in the island nation. The North Malé Atoll resort is reachable by speedboat or seaplane from Malé Airport. The all-villa luxury resort has 67 beach and over-water villas, all with gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean. Even Talise Spa has six over-water treatment rooms, so you’ll feel like you’re floating in a bubble of bliss. The more unusual excursions include underwater photography, planting trees, making coconut oil and a submarine tour.
Where: Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
Contact: www.jumeirah.com
SO/ Maldives
Fashion-forward brand SO/ has brought luxe island living to the Maldives archipelago. The resort boasts 80 villas with private pools and beachfront or over-water locations that are ideal for the upcoming Eid Al Adha holidays. The design is modern, with a focus on open living spaces and panoramic ocean views. Guests have a variety of dining options, including The Citronelle Club for casual all-day dining with Asian influences and Lazuli Beach Club for a Mediterranean-inspired menu in a beautiful setting with ocean views. There’s even a swimming pool tiled in rainbow colours and a “kids pod” for sleeping under the stars.
Where: SO/ Maldives, Emboodhoo, Malé, Maldives
Contact: https://so-hotels.com
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is a design-led sanctuary in the North Malé Atoll, reached by a 45-minute luxury speedboat or a short seaplane hop from Velana International Airport. Circular lines define the resort, from the striking ring-shaped spa to the overwater villas that arc across the lagoon, a signature of architect Kerry Hill. Expect 100 ocean-facing villas with private pools, plus an Aris Meeha butler to curate everything from snorkelling to sunset cruises. Dining spans a dedicated Culinary Island, with highlights such as Summer Pavilion and IWAU, and offers easy access to Fari Marina Village.
Where: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Fari Islands North, Malé, Maldives
Contact: www.ritzcarlton.com
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort isn’t technically new, but it has undergone a major refurbishment. The hotel re-opened its doors at the end of 2021 and looks as good as new. Take your pick from 33 on-land and 44 overwater villas, each of which comes with a private pool. One of the newly launched concepts is the Signature Floating Dining Ritual, which lets you enjoy your meal while floating in the pool. If you’re travelling with your family, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are villas with two and three bedrooms. Plus, a children’s club offers meditation, painting and video games, and a spa has services for kids. Best of all, there’s the legendary St Regis Butler service, which offers a personalised stay.
Where: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Vommuli Island Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
Contact: www.marriott.com
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a castaway-luxe retreat in the South Malé Atoll, reached by a 40-minute yacht journey from Velana International Airport. Across three private islands, all-villa accommodation pairs sleek design with private pools, overwater decks and broad lagoon views. Days revolve around snorkelling, water sports, spa rituals and sunset cocktails. Destinations dining anchors this resort, with Zuma bringing its contemporary Japanese izakaya energy to the Maldives, serving robata grills, sushi and signature creations above endless blues.
Where: Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Ithaafushi Island South, Malé, Maldives
Contact: www.hilton.com
Mauritius
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is a villa-only hideaway on the island’s east coast in Beau Champ, wrapped by mangroves and the Ile aux Cerfs lagoon. Each thatched-roof villa comes with a private pool, outdoor shower and generous indoor-outdoor living. Days can be as active or slow as you like: snorkel with the Marine Discovery team, cycle the palm-lined paths, or tee off on two championship courses, including the oceanfront Ernie Els design and the Bernhard Langer course on Île aux Cerfs, reached by boat. Evenings bring laid-back luxury, from lagoon views to tropical-tinged dining, under warm Mauritian hospitality.
Where: Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, Coastal Road, Beau Champ, Mauritius
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
One&Only Le Saint Géran
One&Only Le Saint Géran has an impressive reputation in Mauritius. In 1975, the hotel opened. In 2017, it underwent a $55 million refurbishment, and in 2024, essential enhancements were made. One&Only Le Saint Géran is the stuff that island dreams are made of. It’s grand without being pretentious and friendly without being in your face. Drawing inspiration from old sugar cane factories, it feels like it has always been a part of the island. One&Only Le Saint Géran features 142 rooms and suites. The rooms range from a Lagoon Room to a Beach Front Balcony Room to a Beach Front Balcony Suite. Plus, if you’re seeking a splurge, there is a standalone two-bedroom villa that’s the ideal retreat for the Eid Al Adha holidays.
Where: One&Only Le Saint Géran, Pointe de Flacq, Mauritius
Contact: www.oneandonlyresorts.com
Shangri-La Le Touessrok
If you are thinking of a chic beach resort with a little taste of the island lifestyle, then Shanghai-La Le Touessrok is the place for you in Mauritius. You can choose from a range of luxury rooms, suites or beach villas, but the hotel also has a selection of esteemed restaurants and bars, meaning you don’t have to look far for top dining experiences. Making things even better is the resort’s prime location on Trou d’Eau Douce Bay. Bonus tip: Be sure to take the short boat ride to Ile aux Cerfs Leisure Island and spend the day.
Where: Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Coastal Road, Trou d’Eau Douce, Mauritius
Contact: www.shangri-la.com
The Oberoi Mauritius
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius, sits on the white sands of Turtle Bay, set within 20 acres of subtropical gardens. Thatched-roof pavilions and villas feel quietly traditional, with many offering private pools and raised alfresco dining pavilions facing the sea. Days drift between snorkelling and sailing in the bay, yoga on the lawn and restorative treatments at the resort’s spa. Come evening, The Restaurant glows beside a candlelit reflection pool, serving Creole, international and Indian flavours, while sunsets paint the lagoon copper.
Where: The Oberoi Mauritius, Turtle Bay, Pointe aux Piments, Mauritius
Contact: www.oberoihotels.com
Oman
Alila Hinu Bay
Alila Hinu Bay draws inspiration from the rich Omani heritage, blending it with local culture and breathtaking landscapes. Thoughtful design elements frame spectacular views of the sea and lagoon from the rooms and villas (some with private pools), emphasising the resort’s connection to nature. Indulge in culinary delights at Seasalt, which serves up sustainably harvested seafood specialities sourced from Mirbat’s traditional fishing port. The resort is ideal for the Eid Al Adha holidays and can be used as a base for exploring the surrounding landscape, including the waterfalls of Wadi Darbat, the Tawi Atair Sinkhole, and Khor Rori, the largest nature reserve in the area.
Where: Alila Hinu Bay, Mirbat, Salalah, Oman
Contact: www.alilahotels.com
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort
Nestled in the tranquil and cool mountainous region, a two-hour drive inland from Muscat, lies the exquisite Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort. Perched atop the legendary Green Mountain, this elevated luxury retreat boasts awe-inspiring views of dramatic canyons, making it one of the world’s highest resorts. Embark on thrilling adventures as you explore the pristine wilderness surrounding the resort. After a day of excitement, pamper yourself with indulgent spa and hammam rituals designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
Where: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Nizwa, Oman
Contact: www.anantara.com
Jumeirah Muscat Bay
Situated within the secluded cove of Bandar Jissah, between the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, Jumeirah Muscat Bay boasts modern and Arabesque design features throughout its 206 spacious rooms and suites – all of which have impressive ocean views. There are five dining venues: Peridot serves international food, with live cooking stations, healthy favourites, and afternoon tea; Zuka is a chilled poolside lounge; Anzo bar offers cocktails, cigars, and Asian-style bites; and Brezza will open in September, serving seafood and sea views. Guests can also enjoy Talise Spa, the fitness centre, the yoga studio, the tennis court and the kids’ club. The water sports are just as impressive, as they cover scuba diving, sailing and – since you’re in Oman – snorkelling with turtles.
Where: Jumeirah Muscat Bay, Bandar Jissah, Muscat Bay, Oman
Contact: www.jumeirah.com
Mandarin Oriental Muscat
Set in the prestigious Shatti Al Qurum district, Mandarin Oriental Muscat offers views of the Arabian Sea and Hajar Mountains. Designed to reflect Omani culture with a contemporary twist, the hotel features 150 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each with a private balcony. The hotel’s restaurants serve everything from Italian cuisine to creative Mediterranean-Asian fusion dishes. The hotel also boasts a serene outdoor pool, a luxury spa, and an exclusive beachfront setting, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and indulgence during the Eid Al Adha holidays.
Where: Mandarin Oriental Muscat, Shatti Al Qurum, Muscat, Oman
Contact: www.mandarinoriental.com
Six Senses Zighy Bay
Six Senses Zighy Bay invites UAE residents to retreat to Oman’s Musandam Peninsula for their Eid Al Adha holidays, where dramatic mountains meet the Gulf of Oman. The Oman Getaway offer includes 25% savings on villa stays, dining, spa treatments and 4×4 transfers from Dubai, plus daily breakfast for two and late check-out, subject to availability. Families can enjoy added value, with two children under 12 staying complimentary when sharing a villa with their parents. Guests can unwind in private pool villas, experience the Six Senses Spa, or create personalised scrubs and balms at the Alchemy Bar. Available to book until 30 June for stays until 31 August 2026.
Where: Six Senses Zighy Bay, Musandam Peninsula, Dibba, Oman
Contact: www.sixsenses.com
The Chedi Muscat
Nestled where the majestic Al Hajar Mountains meet the serene waters of the Gulf of Oman, The Chedi Muscat stands as a beacon of luxury amidst a sprawling twenty-one-acre garden oasis. With 162 Omani-influenced guestrooms and villas, this 5-star beach resort is a true masterpiece, having opened its doors in 2003 as Oman’s first contemporary beach hotel. Guests can also indulge in the tranquil ambience of the thirteen-suite Balinese spa, take a dip in one of the three swimming pools, including the renowned 103-meter Long Pool, or stay active at the 700-square-meter health club. The resort also boasts six restaurants and lounges, offering a diverse culinary experience.
Where: The Chedi Muscat, 18th November Street, Al Khuwair, Muscat, Oman
Contact: www.ghmhotels.com
The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is an exquisite luxury retreat set along Oman’s pristine coastline, offering a perfect blend of modern elegance and Arabian charm. The resort features 250 beautifully designed rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of the beach or the lush fairways of the Al Mouj Golf Club. A true haven for relaxation, the resort boasts a serene private beach, two swimming pools, and a world-class Guerlain spa. Dining options include nine signature restaurants, such as the renowned Hakkasan, known for its contemporary Cantonese flavours, and Roberto’s, an Italian fine-dining hotspot.
Where: The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, Al Mouj, Muscat, Oman
Contact: www.marriott.com
Saudi Arabia
Desert Rock Resort
Desert Rock Resort boasts a spectacular setting, situated within the desert cliffs. The unique hotel features 48 stunning villas and 12 well-appointed rooms, offering discerning travellers an exclusive and secluded retreat. Designed with modern luxury in mind, the recently released videos showcase rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic views of the desert landscape. Private pools offer a tranquil oasis for relaxation, while the resort’s contemporary furnishings create a stylish and comfortable ambience for guests. The project is fully integrated into the rock, showcasing a harmonious blend of architecture and nature.
Where: Desert Rock Resort, Umluj, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.desertrock.sa
InterContinental Resort Red Sea
InterContinental Resort Red Sea promises a captivating experience for guests seeking a luxurious getaway during the upcoming Eid Al Adha holidays. With 178 rooms and 32 suites, each featuring breathtaking sea views and direct beach access, guests can wake up to the sound of waves and feel the sand between their toes. The resort features an array of amenities, including five dining venues and a design inspired by the surrounding coral reefs. Multiple swimming pools offer refreshing aquatic experiences, while a state-of-the-art spa and health club provide opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Where: InterContinental Resort Red Sea, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.ihg.com
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Red Sea
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is out of this world. Designed by Foster and Partners, the architecture looks as if it has landed from outer space. The site features sweeping, shell-inspired architecture and interiors crafted from natural materials in calming sea- and sand-toned hues. The hotel boasts 63 solar-powered one- to three-bedroom villas. Built over the water, it gives off Maldives vibes in the Red Sea. The superb spa features sea-facing treatment rooms, outdoor treatment cabins, pools, a hammam, and a fitness centre, while the Galaxea and Wama clubs offer water activities in an untouched part of the world. Fittingly, Nujuma means “stars” in Arabic, as this truly is a star hotel for spending the Eid Al Adha holidays.
Where: Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ummahat Islands, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.ritzcarlton.com
Our Habitas AlUla
AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s hidden gems, a largely untouched patch of desert with a history dating back to the first century BCE and UNESCO-worthy sights. Our Habitas AlUla allows you to experience the desert destination in style. Check into one of the villas, which boast panoramic views of the desert, Bedouin chic interiors, and concealed outdoor showers (so you’ll never miss those soaring rocks). Look out for yoga and meditation classes, a swimming pool tucked between the cliffs, and a spa menu that includes anti-ageing facials, hot stone massages and anti-cellulite scrubs.
Where: Our Habitas AlUla, Ashar Valley, AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.ourhabitas.com
Shebara Resort
Few places in the world push the boundaries of hospitality quite like Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Red Sea Project, and Shebara Resort is a prime example of its visionary ethos. This ultra-futuristic destination is where the natural world fuses seamlessly with cutting-edge design. An ultra-luxe sanctuary for the elite traveller, it brings Maldives-style living to the Middle East. The resort comprises 73 keys, spanning beach and overwater villas. The interiors blend natural colours with modern aesthetics, perfectly complementing the floating bowl-shaped infinity pools and private terraces with panoramic views. The island offers a selection of five high-end restaurants inspired by global culinary traditions, while placing a strong emphasis on local, sustainably sourced ingredients.
Where: Shebara Resort, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: https://shebara.sa
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
Six Senses Southern Dunes’ palette is filled with layers of sand beige, warm browns, and the greens of trees and herb gardens. It’s the kind of design that makes your problems feel proportionally smaller in the face of the magnificence around you, encouraging you to breathe a little deeper. The spa is the real jewel. Beyond its serene treatment rooms and hammams, the facility features a spin studio, an aerial yoga suite, and even a meditation dome. If you’re curious about the future of wellness, you’ll also find biohacking stations, cold plunge pools, and infrared salt saunas that blend ancient rituals with modern science. Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, also hosts stargazing sessions for the Eid Al Adha holidays.
Where: Six Senses Southern Dunes, Umluj, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.sixsenses.com
SLS The Red Sea
SLS The Red Sea brings theatrical, design-led luxury to Shura Island, making it one of the Kingdom’s most exciting new resorts. The first SLS in Saudi Arabia, it pairs Foster + Partners architecture with a playful edge, from bold interiors to the brand’s signature social energy. The 150-key retreat includes rooms, suites and private villas, while Ciel Spa, a 24-hour gym and the island’s largest pool sharpen its wellness appeal. Dining is a major draw, with Floating World, Fi’lia, Seabird, Deluxe and The Perch delivering serious variety. It feels escapist and unmistakably modern for the Eid Al Adha holidays.
Where: SLS Red Sea, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: https://slshotels.com
The Chedi Hegra
Billed as a “living museum,” The Chedi Hegra is the resort that desert dreams are made of. Hidden in the heart of AlUla, it offers 84 rooms and suites that beautifully blend modern comfort with traditional Arabian charm. Dining here is a delight. Prima Classe Restaurant is located in the old Hegra Railway Station, where a black-and-red Locomotive 964 steam engine sits in the centre of the restaurant, while old railway tracks are preserved beneath glass panels in the floor. Surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, guests can unwind at the resort’s spa, which offers a wide range of rejuvenating treatments in a tranquil setting.
Where: The Chedi Hegra, Hegra, AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.ghmhotels.com
The Red Sea EDITION
The Red Sea EDITION brings EDITION’s polished, design-forward energy to Shura Island, pairing island seclusion with a distinctly social sense of luxury. The resort features 240 rooms and 53 suites, many with plunge pools and sweeping sea views, plus a private beach, an infinity pool, and a watersports centre that makes the most of its spectacular setting. Wellness is a serious draw, with a custom spa offering Omorovicza rituals, plunge pools, saunas and a 24-hour fitness centre with reformer Pilates and sunrise sessions. Dining is equally strong, spanning Central, Jiwa Terrace, the Lobby and the Indonesian-inspired Jiwa Beach Club, making it one of Saudi Arabia’s most exciting resort stays.
Where: The Red Sea EDITION, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Contact: www.editionhotels.com
Seychelles
Cheval Blanc Seychelles
Cheval Blanc Seychelles is LVMH’s sixth Cheval Blanc Maison, curled around Anse Intendance on Mahé. Designed by architect Jean-Michel Gathy as an ode to Creole traditions and nature, the resort balances drama and discretion across 52 villas on the beach or tucked into the hillside, each with a private pool. Days pivot from snorkelling and island-hopping to slow, barefoot lounging. Wellness is anchored by the Cheval Blanc Spa by Guerlain, hidden in lush jungle for element-inspired treatments and a full reset. Finish with sunset cocktails and refined dining, delivered with quietly attentive, bespoke service.
Where: Cheval Blanc Seychelles, Anse Intendance, Mahé,, Seychelles
Contact: www.chevalblanc.com
Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts
You know you’re in for a luxurious experience, as Mango House Seychelles is part of Hilton’s LXR Hotel & Resort. The location was once the residence of the Italian photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri and has now been turned into a 41-room boutique resort. The accommodation ranges from rooms, suites and villas to beachfront residences with pools. All the rooms have classic four-poster beds and balconies with views. Excursions are given an upgrade: enjoy a private glass-bottom boat tour, hike the rocky coastline path at Anse Major Beach, take a scenic helicopter tour, and go with a park ranger to explore native wildlife.
Where: Mango House Seychelles, Baie Lazare, Mahé, Seychelles
Contact: www.hilton.com
North Island
North Island Seychelles is the definition of barefoot luxury: a private isle about 1.3 miles long, roughly 18 miles from Mahé, where conservation comes as standard. You’ll stay in one of just 11 handcrafted villas, built from organic materials harvested during the island’s rehabilitation, each opening onto powder-white beaches and electric-blue water. Between snorkelling, kayaking and guided nature walks, the resort’s Noah’s Ark programme focuses on restoring endemic flora and fauna, and supporting nesting sea turtles and resident tortoises. Dinner is tailored nightly, and sunsets feel cinematic. Expect discreet, deeply personalised service and a castaway rhythm that feels worlds away.
Where: North Island, Seychelles
Contact: https://north-island.com
Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Six Senses Zil Pasyon is a private-island escape on Félicité, where coral-fringed beaches meet sculptural granite boulders and jungle greenery. Arrive in style via a scenic 20-minute helicopter flight from Mahé, touching down at the resort’s own jetty helipad. Accommodation is villa-only, with private infinity pools, including 28 one-bedroom pool villas and two two-bedroom pool villas, plus larger residences tucked into the landscape. Spend days snorkelling with turtles, hiking, or simply drifting between beach and spa. Dining spans spice-route flavours at Island Café and seafood-led plates at Ocean, using local catch and garden produce.
Where: Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Felicite, Seychelles
Contact: www.sixsenses.com
Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island
This recently opened resort is the sole resident of Platte Island, a secluded paradise in the Seychelles. Lush tropical gardens surround each of the 50 luxurious beachfront villas with personal concierge service. Choose from one to three bedrooms, or for the ultimate getaway, the expansive five-bedroom villa with private gardens. Explore the island’s diverse ecosystems through expertly guided fly fishing adventures or dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the vibrant marine life on a snorkelling or scuba diving excursion. After a day of exploration, unwind at the Waldorf Astoria spa or savour exquisite cuisine at one of the six restaurants and bars.
Where: Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, Outer Islands, Seychelles
Contact: www.hilton.com
Sri Lanka
Amanwella
Amanwella is a sleek, low-slung sanctuary on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, tucked into a coconut grove above Tangalle’s golden crescent bay. Inspired by modernist lines and open-air living, each spacious suite opens to a private plunge pool and a terrace framed by jungle and sea. Days slip by between beach walks, paddling in the surf, and slow lunches of grilled seafood and bright Sri Lankan curries. The spa focuses on restorative bodywork, while excursions range from turtle nesting sites to temple visits and wildlife safaris in nearby parks. Come sunset, cocktails meet the soundtrack of waves under a fiery sky.
Where: Amanwella, Bodhi Mawatha, Godellawela, Sri Lanka
Contact: www.aman.com
ÀNI Sri Lanka
When only exclusivity will do, look no further than ÀNI. If you haven’t heard of it, there’s a reason why: money talks, wealth whispers. The private resort is one of the high-end hotel sector’s best-kept secrets. Founded in 2010, ÀNI’s resorts can be found in Anguilla, the Dominican Republic, Thailand and Sri Lanka. ÀNI Sri Lanka can accommodate between six and 30 guests, but couples have rented out the whole resort. Spanning 700 square feet, the rooms include eight split-level suites, four classic suites and three family suites. Head Chef, Cyril Human and his team can create any cuisine. Facilities include two infinity pools, massages on demand and excursions. Your wish is their command.
Where: ÀNI Sri Lanka, Kaluketiya Watta Road, Maaliyadda, Sri Lanka
Contact: https://aniprivateresorts.com
Galle Face Hotel
Galle Face Hotel is Colombo’s grand old dame, a storied seafront landmark that has hosted everyone from royalty to writers since the 19th century. Step through the collonaded halls, and you’ll find period charm, sea-breeze verandas and the kind of service that feels reassuringly old-school. Rooms and suites blend heritage details with modern comfort, while the location makes it an easy base for the city’s markets, museums and galleries. Come sunset, the terrace is the place to be: gin and tonics, salty air and the Indian Ocean turning copper as Colombo winds down.
Where: Galle Face Hotel, Galle Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Contact: https://gallefacehotel.com
Granbell Hotel Colombo
Granbell Hotel Colombo was created by the Japanese hospitality company Belluna Co. Ltd. and opened in the spring of 2022. Less of a resort and more of a hotel, it is in the capital and boasts Indian Ocean views, which are best experienced from the swoon-worthy rooftop infinity pool. While the rooms are compact, many have terraces and baths with views. Plus, there’s a spa, rooftop bar and, reflecting the creators, an authentic Japanese restaurant, Minori.
Where: Granbell Hotel Colombo, Kollupitiya Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Contact: https://granbellhotel.lk
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Wild Coast Tented Lodge is Sri Lanka at its most cinematic: a safari-style retreat where cocoon-like tents sit just beyond the sand dunes of Yala’s wild edge. Days begin with the hush of the jungle and end with sunsets over the Indian Ocean, the air salted and still. Inside, the tents lean into luxury without losing their sense of adventure, with curated design details, deep baths and serious beds made for post-game-drive collapses. The heart of the lodge is a striking, bamboo-clad pavilion for cocktails and elevated local flavours, with wildlife never far away.
Where: Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Palatupana, Yala, Sri Lanka
Contact: www.resplendentceylon.com