Once you’ve touched down at Colombo Airport, travel in your private vehicle to Horathapola Estate. This special property is a historic manor house set on a working coconut plantation. Relax by the pool or on the veranda before taking a sunset bullock-cart tour of the estate. In the evening, dine on some of the best authentic curries found in Sri Lanka.

Next you are bound for the Cultural Triangle which is home to the island’s most iconic historic attractions. Highlights include Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the medieval citadel Polonnaruwa. From your base in Sigiriya, you also have easy access to Ritigala Forest Monastery and Minneriya National Park.

From here, head out east for your first taste of tropical beach. Passikudah boasts one of the longest stretches of shallow coastline in the world which makes it the perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. You can also do a whale watching experience in the summer months, or go on a half-day sailing trip for paddleboarding at private coves.

Head inland away from the coast to Gal Oya National Park. This remote wildlife reserve is much lesser-visited than Yala National Park in the south and Wilpattu in the north-west. While you won’t see leopards here, Gal Oya has many rare species and unique experiences to offer visitors. Find ancient Ayurvedic plants on a jungle walk, climb Monkey Mountain, and spot star tortoise lurking on the rocks. Perhaps most special is the sunset boat safari where you can spot elephants swimming in the lake and watch up to 150 species of bird wheeling overhead.

Travel down and out to the south-east beach town of Arugam Bay, a laidback surfers’ paradise with a wide sweeping bay. More national parks flank the town, and there are many unknown heritage sites to be explored. Embrace the pace of barefoot living in this remote coastal region.

Say goodbye to the beach and travel up into the island’s southern hills. Here you can rest and relax while taking in the glorious views of terraced tea estates backed my lush mountains, and head out to explore your surroundings on foot.

Swap the hills for your final stay by the sea. Galle is a UNESCO heritage site dating back to the 17th century which is home to a variety of architectural gems, including its impressive Dutch fort. You will also find a range of artisan shops and independent cafés and restaurants. Either side of Galle are vibrant beaches offering a range of water-sports, and the charming inland countryside can be explored by boat or bike. Why not round off your vacation with a traditional cooking class?