From Ancient Kingdoms to Wild Coastlines
Expect the Unexpected!
Exploring Sri Lanka has been a destination for quite some time that I wanted to experience, but to be brutally honest, i didn't know what to expect. We were arriving with open arms and willing to embrace all that this country had to offer, not knowing just how fulfilling, grounding and magical this country truly is.
Getting to and from each area throughout Sri Lanka takes a little longer than what we would expect, especially seeing as though its not a huge country. Its the rolling green hills, the slower paced driving, the elephants on the side of the road meandering hoping to grab a "sweet treat" and the beautiful families making their way to and from work, school and buying essentials for their day to day living.
Over two unforgettable weeks, we journeyed from Negombo, Sigiriya and Kandy into the heart of tea country, then down through Ella, Yala National Park, and Weligama. We stayed in luxurious properties throughout, with the most soul-stirring experiences at the Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Yala, and Cape Weligama—three places that redefined family luxury travel for us.
This was an adventure that felt immersive, safe, enriching and effortless—and a destination I now recommend to every family who wants more than just a holiday. Sri Lanka gives you an experience.
Negombo was our soft landing after a long flight—warm air, swaying palms, the Indian Ocean breathing in and out like a welcome. We stayed just for the night, allowed our bodies to reset, and let Sri Lanka introduce herself slowly. The kids swam, we walked along the water, and it was the first taste of the country’s famous hospitality: gracious, smiling, genuine. I knew on arrival, I was going to love this country and with our new found friend- our driver and guide Bwanaka by our side, we were going to be in for a real treat!
From coast to culture, we headed inland to Sigiriya—home of the iconic Lion Rock Fortress. Its scale is humbling, its history enchanting. But what I will remember forever is the climb.
Two girls afraid of heights.
One three-year-old on the hip, then the back, then Sams back, then Bwanakas back, just to accomplish the steep climb to say we had made it!
There were moments of doubt, laughter, pep talks, wobbling legs and deep breaths. But we made it. All of us. Sweat dripping from head to toe, faces red raw, shoulders a little pink but the feeling of accomplishment.
Reaching the top wasn’t just a view—it was a victory. A memory I will carry for life. That night, we collapsed into luxury with tired legs and full hearts.
Unfortunately we didn't get to experience all that Kandy had to offer, or as much as we wanted to. Here we stayed one night in a beautiful wellness property just outside of Kandy, but it was the perfect breather that we all needed. With a late afternoon arrival and Visiting the Tooth Relic Temple, it was an early dinner ready for our train ride from Kandy to Hatton in the morning at 840am.
We were all ready for a change in pace. Although we were in comfort, style and happy with the itinerary myself and the team created, traveling with kids and long hours in a car, it can be quite tiring, but so worth it.
We wanted to experience the local train journey in Sri Lanka and it didnt disappoint.
Traveling in 1st class meant the Aircon was on, we had forward facing seats and we had some time to relax, and enjoy the incredible scenery that Sri Lanka had to offer
Sri Lanka I must say, has the most adoring culture. All of the mothers like the tickle little kids under the chin, get in their faces and ask them questions (no personal space here). Parker was a little put off by this as its quite different in our culture, but he quickly adapted. Gave them some air time, smiled and looked away.
Our train trip was nothing short of enjoyable. Picture this. A family group of roughly 6 adults and 8 kids, all making their way to or past Hatton, kids jumping around, brining their own food onboard and offering their sweet treats to us, having their own HUGE juke box playing their songs and simply just enjoying life.
THIS right here was what it was all about. This train journey was meant to happen even for this experience only. It was Raw, it was Authentic and it was truly beautiful. Our kids LOVED it.
Then came the moment that changed the pace of our entire trip. Welcome to the Gorgeous, Misty, Picture perfect green rolling hills of Tea Trails
Our Ceylon Dunkeld bungalow at Tea Trails overlooked rolling tea fields, a landscape so peaceful it felt unreal. With 5 rooms in this one Bungalow, we didn't even feel like anyone else was staying there. The stillness, Peacefulness and the feeling of being home rushed over me. Now kicking myself I didn't book extra nights to REALLY soak up all that this gorgeous area has to offer.
Here, we were grounded. Present and Connected.
The Days were slow and luxurious: gourmet meals, fresh air, early nights, and deep breaths. This wasn’t just a stay. It was a reset. A reminder of what matters.
We learned the art of tea from a local planter—surprisingly fascinating, beautifully delivered, and unforgettable for all of us. The kids were taken into the tea plantations to learn how to pick tea, make tea and to immerse them into the hard work by the local women that it takes to actually do this job for such little money.
To say the hills here are steep would be an understatement, I guess thats why they have incredible views, but for the locals, especially the kids, this is hard work. They walk to school (at the bottom of the hill) every day which is roughly 6km EACH WAY going down, then the same going back up hill. I think we need to take a "tea leaf"out of their book and realise how important walking is, but how much we take out easy lifestyle and flat surfaces for granted. Meeting some of these beautiful kids was all part of the experience. This is something you take away from your trips. Cultural immersion. Whether its 10 minutes or 10 hours with a local, soak it up and be at one with them. Its like time stands still and memories become engrained in your life forever.
Yet another town I wish i was able to spend more time in.
We arrived into Ella late afternoon and driving through this gorgeous tiny little town felt like a little piece of Byron Bay or a very hippish side of Sri Lanka. I could see why I saw the most tourists here compared to any other town/area of Sri Lanka.
Staying in our beautiful 98 Acres Property, on the cliffs edge overlooking rainforests, misty skies and waterfalls in the distance was truly beautiful.
A little spot of shopping (we have a 13 year old daughter remember so shopping is high on the list at any given stage) then a little drive through the town to enjoy a later lunch and see a little of the Ella area.
Not far from here is the highest peak in Sri Lanka. Over 2000m above sea level. This country is deceiving. We were along way up.
Ella is well know for the 9 arches. If you have seen pictures of Sri Lanka, the train running through Ella and over the 9 arches is a world famous iconic sight and it did not disappoint.
We hiked our way down from our hotel to the bridge, a nice hot and humid day, again lugging a 3 year old on our back and we spent some time taking photos and waiting for the Iconic Photo of the train crossing the bridge.
Simply beautiful.
Nothing can prepare you for the magic of Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Yala. Luxury meets wilderness in the most dramatic, beautiful way. Our safari days were bursting with awe:
- Elephants grazing freely, Buffalo wallowing in the watering holes
- crocodiles lazing like they are not dangerous
- Birds in colours we couldn’t name
- And then… a leopard, silent, powerful, breathtaking. We didnt just see one, we saw two. Which is quite rare because they move so quickly and dont really like to be seen. Oh and they are fast!
3 Safaris are included during a 3 night stay at this property and they are each a 3 hour journey through the Yala national park. While staying at this property you have your own ranger in the back with you, and honestly this makes all the difference. They are so full of knowledge about the park, the animals and the property.
An all inclusive luxury property set at the bottom of Sri Lanka right on the coast was just picture perfect. Two pods, one for us and one for the kids with our own pool was just what was needed after days looking for animals and warm dry. Gorgeous cocktails by the pool and sunsets with waves crashing in the background against the big boulders is beyond picture perfect! The perfect property for friends, families, couples and solo travellers.
We ended by the sea at Cape Weligama—a coastal sanctuary of elegance and calm. Surf, cocktails, fresh seafood, infinity pools, and long exhale energy. It was the perfect contrast to the wildness of Yala and the stillness of Tea Country.
Sri Lanka had shown us every face she has to offer—and every one of them was beyond beautiful.
Sri Lanka, we will be back!
Is Sri Lanka good for a luxury family holiday?
Yes. With private drivers, world-class hotels, gentle culture, and incredible variety, it’s ideal for families seeking comfort and adventure.
How long do you need in Sri Lanka?
10–14 nights is perfect for a multi-region trip like ours.
Is Sri Lanka safe for kids?
We found it extremely safe, welcoming and child-friendly. We had NO issues with feeling unsafe.
When is the best time to visit?
Generally November–April for the south and west, although it’s a year-round destination depending on your route. We travelled in October and I honestly found it perfect. Not too hot, not too humid. It was a perfect balance.
Do you need a private driver?
For comfort, ease and safety—yes. I highly recommend it.
Are the Ceylon properties worth it?
Absolutely. They were the heart of our luxury experience and I would return in a heartbeat.
This trip grounded us, bonded us and opened our children’s eyes to a world so different and so beautiful. It reminded me why we travel as a family: to feel, to grow, to connect and to remember who we are away from the noise.
If Sri Lanka is on your heart, I’d love to help you turn it into a journey your family will never forget.
All travel referred to on this site is arranged through Rhianon Hutton.
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