Perched on steep cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, Cape Weligama is set in an exceptional natural setting. It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful and wilder setting than this luxury hotel in Weligama, Sri Lanka. The perfect address to press pause.
Nestled in Weligama, on the south coast of Sri Lanka and a few kilometers from Galle, Cape Weligama is a charming address, a real paradise on earth in the land of green gold. This luxury hotel in Sri Lanka is one of three Relais & Châteaux in the country (along with Ceylon Tea Trails in Hatton and Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Yala).
Weligama is paradisiacal beaches, whale watching, surfing or seeing the famous stilt fishermen. If you are going to travel to the south of Sri Lanka and you want to get into natural landscapes, do not miss this destination. In this guide we explain what to see and what to do in Weligama for an unforgettable trip.
Perched atop a scenic promontory that rises 40 meters above the Indian Ocean, Cape Weligama is a 12-acre resort amidst wildflowers, palms and frangipani trees. Upon arrival, the sound of the waves breaking on the shore will take away all your daily troubles and immerse you in a state of intense relaxation, for the duration of your trip to Sri Lanka.
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What to see in Weligama
Weligama Bay
Weligama Bay is exactly where the village of Weligama is located . Within the bay there are several beaches, the most prominent being that of Taprobane , located on an island. The island of Taprobane (a word that means “Sri Lanka” in Greek) is located right in front of the beach . It is only a few meters from the shore and can be accessed on foot along the sand. Formerly this island was called Galduwa, which means Rock Island. Taprobane is a private island where you can stay and enjoy views of the bay. Another well-known beach area is Fisherman’s Bay , which has a small cove where many fishing boats are anchored. Fishing activity is very frequent in Weligama.
stilt fishermen
Stilt fishermen are one of the icons of Weligama and also of Sri Lanka in general. The fishermen are located in the water hanging on a pole from where they fish with their rods. Contemplating this centuries-old artisanal fishery is something that cannot be missing from your list of things to see and do in Weligama.
kushtarajagala
Kushtarajagala is an archaeological site especially known for its stone statue named Kushtarajagala. It is said that this statue was built between the 7th century and the 9th century, although the exact time is not known. There are many doubts about the character to whom the statue is dedicated. Some say that he is a Natha Bodhisatta, that he is a person who aspired to be a Buddha one day, while others think that he is from a foreign king, whose identity is not clear.
Things to do in Weligama
watch whales
If you like nature and marine animals in particular, Weligama is a destination you must visit. Weligama is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to watch whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. One of the most recommended things you can see or do in Weligama is whale watching. If you like nature and marine animals in particular, do not hesitate, Weligama will allow you to be in one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Bathe in your beach
Practice surf
Weligama’s beaches are ideal for surfing . They are especially suitable for beginners , especially the Weliwama or Sand Beach because the waves are moderate and allow you to gain experience. On windy days the Weligama beaches are also a good place for experienced surfers, who want to practice with bigger waves. For experienced surfers we recommend Mirissa beach , 3 kilometers to the south, or Gurubelila beach about 3 kilometers to the north.
Luxury hotel in Weligama: Majestic suites with colonial charm
This luxury hotel in Sri Lanka consists of 39 spacious suites and villas. At Cape Weligama, the rooms in orange tones, raw wood furniture and patterned cushions make up a slightly vintage chic colonial style. Behind this decoration, the renowned Thai architect Lek Bunnag, who wanted to transcribe identically the traditional rooms of Sri Lankan villages.
All suites have large terraces with panoramic ocean views. Some have large bathrooms with stone bathtubs and hammams, while the villas have private swimming pools opening onto the lush vegetation. This luxury hotel in Weligama offers privacy and seclusion. It is rare, very rare even, to come across other travelers around the complex, except in the restaurants or near the swimming pool.
Luxury hotel in Weligama: Swimming pool, spa and whale watching
On the seafront, the 60-meter crescent-shaped infinity pool offers the most spectacular views of the coast and seems to float above the waves. Further on, a paved path leads to the creeks of Weligama whose crystal clear water lets you see the ballet of turtles. But the sea can be rough and the currents quite strong. Do not hesitate to ask the advice of the staff before diving.
The highlight of this luxury hotel in Weligama? Its traditional Sri Lankan spa, a veritable oasis of serenity which offers treatments with local spices (cloves, nutmeg, sweet orange and sandalwood), massages with Ceylon tea and cinnamon essential oils. For sports enthusiasts, this luxury hotel in Weligama opens the doors to its top-of-the-range fitness room, available 24 hours a day, fully equipped and air-conditioned.
The hotel also offers yoga and pilates classes, on the edge of the cliff, to sculpt yourself while enjoying the surrounding nature. But that’s not all. Not content with offering a peaceful refuge between palm trees and frangipani trees, Cape Weligama also aims to be a land of discovery by offering bicycle excursions around the island, surf lessons, scuba diving and even the opportunity to observe blue whales (In Mirissa, from January to April). A unique show.
Finally, gourmets can enjoy mixed and local cuisine at the top of the hotel, in the Ocean Terrace restaurant offering a panoramic view of the coast. Lamb in a spice crust, cinnamon-smoked tuna or traditional Jaffna curry… so many revisited local specialties that reflect the diversity of Sri Lanka. Nearby, the Cape Club, the bar of this luxury hotel in Weligama, is the perfect place to have a drink while enjoying the sunset. In an intimate space, adorned with souvenirs from the sporting history of Ceylon, in particular cricket, we enjoy an arrack cocktail infused with green tea. A trip out of time.
