Day 1 & 2Upon arriving in Sri Lanka, transfer directly to Alankuda Beach, a tranquil eco-retreat with rustic style situated on a deserted two-kilometre stretch of pristine private beach near the coastal town of Kalpitiya. Spend two nights here relaxing by the waters of the Indian Ocean. During the season from November to April, hundreds of dolphins can be spotted and, if you are lucky, further into the deep seas, you may even spot a blue whale. Alankuda’s boathouse is well equipped with safety vests and boats to take guests out to sea. Birding enthusiasts will enjoy an excursion to the nearby Anawilundawa a wilderness sanctuary that has lakes and mangroves where numerous species of birds can be spotted.

Day 3 – 8Early next morning, travel to the north central region to Ulpotha, one of Sri Lanka’s greatest secrets, a Yoga-focused eco-retreat, hidden away in the heart of the Cultural Triangle close to Anuradhapura. Here you will linger for six nights in peace and tranquility amidst nature at its best. Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s traditional `unhurried and balanced’ lifestyle that is still prevalent in the rural areas. Here time does standstill and wait for you. We recommend Yoga where sessions are conducted in an open sided building with a thatched roof or in the cool shade of a Banyan tree. Ayurveda, an ancient form of healing and well being practiced in Sri Lanka, is also a specialty at Uplotha. The land which Ulpotha is situated on is rich with herbs, which are used for the therapies. You have the option of consulting Ulpotha's resident Ayurvedic specialist will draw up a personalized relaxation and rejuvenation treatment programme. Thereafter, the daily therapies which include oil applications, massage, steam and medicinal bath therapies will continue complemented by a special diet, recommended by the doctor. Your meals will be cooked using locally available fresh vegetables and herbs which will enhance the effect of the therapy. The effectiveness of this holistic and natural approach to the well being of mind and body will be understood only by those who have indulged in it.

Sri Lanka's famous cultural triangle offers plenty to explore over the next week. Anuradhapura, once a royal capital and the greatest monastic city of the world, served as Sri Lanka's capital for around 1,400 years until Polonnaruwa took over in 1073. Archaeologists in the 18C felt they were discovering a lost city, and you will understand why as you gaze upon the remains of the palaces, statues and pleasure gardens. We also recommend a visit to the Sigiriya rock fortress and the ancient Dambulla cave temple.

Day 9 & 10After a weeks rest and relaxation you begin your journey once again, leaving the Cultural Triangle to Sri Lanka's hill capital - the small lakeside city of Kandy. In the afternoon, relax at The Kandy House, the finest property in the area - a beautiful old house set in magnificent tropical gardens. The following day, if you can drag yourself away from the poolside, explore the ancient Degaldoruwa Cave Temple in Gunnepana, just a walking distance from the Kandy House through rural villages. The city of Kandy itself is steeped in history, culture, and is surrounded by nature. Interesting activities include a visit to the Temple of the Tooth where a sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined and Kandy’s rich ancient arts and crafts including drum making, Dumbara mat waving, and crafting Kandyan jewelry, and traditional Kandyan dance and drumming.

Day 11, 12, 13 & 14Journey south to the historic city of Galle where you will stay the next four nights at Kahanda Kanda, a luxurious boutique hotel located about 15 minutes inland from Galle. Explore the surrounding tea estate and visit the nearby tea factory. Take a boat ride on Koggala Lake, scattered with islands including Fish Eagle Island and Cinnamon Island. Swimming, surfing and snorkelling are possible in Unawatuna and Mirissa just 15 minutes away. We recommend a day’s excursion to Galle’s 17C Dutch Fort. Several hours can be spent wandering along the narrow streets, well preserved ramparts, the lighthouse, and the Dutch Reform Church. Explore boutique shops and hotels, visit art galleries and museums, or just soak up the special atmosphere of a living walled town.