Rukgala Retreat, Near Kandy, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book
"What was once an abandoned house clinging to a cacti-covered rock is now a design retreat enveloped by the grand and green Knuckle Mountains. Rukgala is stylish and serene, an artfully simple place to take a breather. Rooms are glistening clean and contemporary, with views across trees to the lake. A stunning L-shaped pool sits on a hilltop promenade; a divine teak ‘ yoga shala’ is open to lush foliage. Friends sharing a yoga and meditation retreat, or solo travellers who want to read in the quiet lounge – Rukgala is open for both. The healthy meals are inspired by Sri Lankan tradition but given a light touch. Tours are offered to colonial tea plantations, secluded lakeside villages and beautiful temple caves. Hiking, biking and wild swimming are all encouraged. So is total chilling. Rukgala is nestled in a bewitching corner of Sri Lanka that's still a secret to the masses – a truly enchanting hideaway. Highs Peace: set in a hidden, untouristy area of Sri Lanka Great activities: yoga and meditation, guided walks and bike rides, wild swimming and paddle boarding in the lake, Ayurvedic massage 8 stylish rooms: we love the use of bamboo and rattan, popped with bright colours and green plants Delicious meals: largely vegetarian or vegan, pairing Sri Lankan curries with western dishes A perfect 2-3 night breather in a busy itinerary Lows Additional extras (like yoga and bike tours) are charged on top of the room price Though stunning, some design elements in the rooms might not be 100% practical - for example, our roll top bathtub didn't quite catch all the water from the shower. Lake levels can be erratic, due to rainy season and irrigation Geared to group retreats so it may be fully booked from time to time; plan ahead" - Sarah de Vere-Drummond
