We began our journey inland at Santani Wellness Resort, tucked high in the hills near Kandy. It’s the kind of place where your shoulders drop about five minutes after arrival. There’s no unnecessary fuss here — the design is calm and minimalist, the vibe unhurried, and the whole resort is centred around wellbeing, movement, and proper rest. The spa is tucked into the jungle, with floor-to-ceiling views and outdoor relaxation areas that feel like a front-row seat to the wild. I lay there one afternoon, wrapped in post-massage bliss, watching monkeys swing through the trees and birds calling in the distance — it felt like a proper reset.

The food was equally special. Each meal was tailored to our wellness goals, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the kind of flavour you dream about weeks later. One of the highlights? A Sri Lankan seven-course tasting menu that celebrated spice, balance and boldness — from delicate lentil fritters to fragrant coconut curries. You can be as structured or indulgent as you like at Santani, which is exactly how a wellness retreat should feel.