Anantara Kalutara Hotel

Sri Lanka

Architectural glory meets sultry paradise at Anantara Kalutara, one of the group’s newest hotels on the verdant teardrop isle. It’s a potent combination. The late Geoffrey Bawa – king of ‘tropical modernism’ – is behind the design, which was one of his last projects. Set in a quaint coastal town between the Kalu Ganga river and the Indian Ocean, his signature is most visible in the lofty, open-sided lobby that welcomes you. Adorned with intricate batiks throughout, the low-slung structure is a fine place to soak up the views, cocktail in hand, of course.

Bedrooms sprawl the property amid swaying palms and elegant gardens. Design is clean and contemporary with local flourishes, best seen in the artwork and furniture. Villas appear in the form of heavenly enclaves with plunge pools and sculptures.

Come morning, tuck in to hoppers (Sri Lankan pancakes) offset with kicky sambal as you listen to the birds chattering around you. Keep your eyes peeled, too, for the resident water monitor lizard, often seen slinking into the lagoon at this hour. Afterwards, easy days are promised at one of two pools, or discover the tea plantations or national parks nearby. Don’t miss supper at Spice Traders, which specialises in modern Sri Lankan cuisine in a traditional setting. Only an hour from Colombo, while feeling a world away from the bustle, this is a top place to explore Sri Lanka’s many sides. Doubles from £163.