Set deep in the lush greens of Koggala Lake, Tri Lanka will bring inner peace to even the hardened of souls through its resort facilities and more
There’s no denying that Sri Lanka is the gem of the Indian Ocean – I experienced this first-hand. From visiting UNESCO cultural heritage sites to watching elephants grazing in their natural habitat, it was easy for me to see why Sri Lanka is fast becoming a top entry in everyone’s travel bucket list. So if the hustle and bustle of city life has worn you down, I’d urge you to book a flight to Sri Lanka, pronto.
And the cherry on top when it comes to rejuvenating your dampened spirit? Let me recommend this perfect, pristine spot: Tri Lanka. More than just a regular stay, Tri Lanka (pronounced as tree-lanka) is a travel experience to behold – and I’m truly glad to have had my stay there.
An inspiring backstory
As an eat-pray-love devotee, I was deeply inspired by the roots and philosophy of Tri. The heart of Tri lies within the core principle of being a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul. Entrepreneur, photographer and founder of Tri, Rob Drummond, had never intended for Tri to be what you see today. Rob first bought the abandoned plot of cinnamon plantations to create a retreat for his family and friends. It was only when he met famed architect, Raefer Wallis, when his vision for Tri evolved and eventually culminated in a retreat set in the secluded bliss of Koggala Lake.
A location that inspires (and is absolutely convenient)
There is no better way to set the tone for your journey to Tri than arriving by boat. From the get-go, I was mesmerised by the magic of the lake. Being completely surrounded by nature, it did calm my soul tremendously. While Tri is nestled in a secluded and private area of Sri Lanka, getting into the city is not too much of a hassle. All I had to do was call for a tuk tuk, and I was instantly whisked away into the historical city of Galle to shop, eat and catch the surf at the gorgeous Koggala beach.
Design that is rooted
Stepping into Tri brought me into a whole new world. With remarkable architecture that celebrates both nature and history, you won’t feel detached from the land it previously was. Designed using the creative spirals of the Fibonacci sequence, the exterior (and interior) design of Tri cleverly encapsulates true beauty where mankind and nature intertwine. Tri offers 11 suites that boast panoramic views of the lake. This definitely became the highlight of my stay here: sleeping to the sound of water streams and waking up to a scenic view of the lake. I also enjoyed walking within the vicinity, as you’d be able to hear soothing Buddhist chants from the surrounding monastery – an unforgettable moment indeed!
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As for the suite itself? Amazing. Not only was it spacious, but its clean, earthy design resonates well with the natural surroundings – promoting a holistic flow of energy throughout the room. I truly missed spending my mornings relaxing at the balcony with a book while being soothed by the hymn of the forest. In keeping with the concept of creating a sustainable environment, modern luxuries are kept at a bare minimum. Who needs a mini-bar and coffee maker in a paradise like this anyway?
Flavourful dinner using locally-sourced ingredients
Thoughtfully conceptualised by Executive Chef Neil Wager, the six-course dinner at the hotel’s restaurant is a one-of-kind experience. Using locally-sourced ingredients, each plate presented my taste buds with a whirlwind of flavours. I felt that the star of the six-course dinner was the rare ambu thiyal tuna; every bite had me wishing how I could replicate this back home…
Top-notch hotel service and hospitality
I felt immediately at ease, comfortable and welcomed the moment I stepped into Tri. The charismatic general manager, Oliver James, is a character you will never forget. I felt very well taken care of without feeling that my privacy being encroached upon.
World-class yoga sessions
The highlight of my stay was when I was invited to a morning yoga session with the founder of Quantum Yoga, Lara. It was truly an honour to practise yoga with Lara – her list of celebrity clients includes Russell Brand, Gerard Butler and Melanie “Sporty Spice” Chisholm. Quantum Yoga stems from the teaching of Ayurveda and places a strong emphasis on the three dosha (vata, pitta and kapha). Class can be taken in a morning group class, or you may book a private session with Lara.
So, throw away your planned itinerary and hop on a spontaneous trip to Tri. This resort isn’t just built to awe; it’s built to pamper and rejuvenate minds and souls.
Tri, Koggala Lake, Galle, Sri Lanka, +94 (0) 777 708 177.
A special shout-out to Mr & Mrs Smith for making booking to Tri a breeze! For more jaw-dropping photos of Tri Lanka, as well as info, rates, and other stunning luxury accommodation options, visit mrandmrssmith.com.