Santani Wellness Kandy, Near Kandy, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book
"If you’re looking for the perfect sanctuary where you can escape the stresses of everyday life, Santani is the place for you. Looking out from its treetop balconies in the lush Sri Lankan hilltops, time itself seems to hold its breath. Panoramic views unfold across a forested river valley, and on the horizons, an endless game of hide and seek plays out between the mountain peaks and the swirling clouds. Indeed, calling Santani a sanctuary isn't going far enough: it's a refuelling station for the soul. The 20 striking chalets are purposefully minimal, the architecture modernist, the setting free of unnecessary clutter. It's all about inner focus. With meals included and no distractions, a few days here will make you feel refreshed, revitalised and ready for anything. Still, it’s not just the setting that takes the breath away. This is a first-rate wellness destination with world-beating facilities. The tri-level spa, which appears to be carved out of a hillside, has an open-fronted design (inspired by the region’s monastic cave dwellings) that houses an impressive array of international therapies (like deep tissue and lomi lomi massages) and Ayurveda treatments by a resident doctor. Free sunrise and sunset group yoga, use of the sauna, steam room and thermal salt bath are also included in your stay, and the thoughtfully curated cuisine – based on the ancient yet au courant concept of '6 tastes' – aims to nourish from the inside out. With time on your side, explore the surrounding countryside on a bird walk or visit the Hulu river with a resident naturalist then follow with a brisk swim – it will enhance your wellbeing like never before. Highs The dramatic mountain setting lets nature nurture your ruffled feathers, and is very calming It’s peaceful without being overly quiet – fall asleep to chirruping crickets and frogs, then wake to vibrant birdsong We loved the spa, its hydrotherapy facilities and the gentle healing hands of our Keralan therapist The food is exceptional – nutritionally balanced yet gourmet at the same time No children under 12 – so no distractions Lows Don’t come for two nights expecting a quick jaunt out to Kandy – it takes an hour to get there The rooms aren't soundproofed (the focus is on having natural ventilation), so you can hear your neighbours if they're chatty. However, it's serenely quiet by 11pm or earlier Expect a few leeches while walking the local trails The hush-hush atmosphere won’t suit everyone – leisure guests are just as welcome as wellness guests, but this is a 'WiFi optional' resort, and WiFi is only available in your room on request" - Emma Boyle
