Our Highlights:

• A guided walk and a morning of bird watching
• A relaxed informal hotel

The tropical island of Sri Lanka is perfectly placed at the toe of India in the warm azure waters of the Indian Ocean. With its outstanding natural beauty, exotic wildlife, a colourful ancient history and glorious golden sand beaches fringed by swaying coconut palms, this is the ideal place for a tropical beach holiday

Our Sri Lanka holiday is a beach stay with a difference: not only do we offer 10 nights on a golden sand beach, but also 3 excursions to show you different aspects of the area: from birdwatching by boat to a look at family life to a visit to a fishing town set between ocean and lake .

 

Seashells

A delightful, informal, medium class hotel set on a long stretch of sandy beach close to a 'village' of catamaran fishermen - the sight of the traditional outrigger fishing canoes, colourful sails filled with wind, is a magical one. A wide choice of shops and restaurants are 7 to 10 minutes' walk away, and, at just 20 to 25 minutes, a short transfer from the international airport.

The hotel has a lovely, relaxed atmosphere and the outdoor terrace by the beach is an excellent spot for writing those postcards home, sipping a sundowner or just enjoying the day. In the evening, you could take one of the tables from by the pool onto the beach and sit, shoes off, with your toes in the sand! The hotel has a restaurant with a seaview, bar, pool bar, lounge and outdoor terrace overlooking the beach and swimming pool.

 

Included excursions

 

Morning birdwatching

Leave as the sun comes up, and transfer to the nearby canal network, largely created by the Dutch in the 18th century. Explore with a knowledgeable guide the lush waterways by small boat and spot the wide array of bird and wildlife.

Guided walk/home visit

Take a late afternoon walk from the hotel through the nearby residential area to a family home with a traditional kitchen. Here the ladies of the house will make you special snacks and sweetmeats - these are usually eaten on high days and holidays only. Return to the hotel as the sun sets and the evening lights come on.

Negombo and Chilaw

A half day excursion, including a short journey on the local railway. Visit the fishing town of Chilaw, once a centre for pearl diving, and now a laid back town set on the Gulf of Mannar and Chilaw Lake.

 

Kandy and the Hill Country Alternative

For those who wish to experience a little more of Sri Lanka we offer a 3 night trip to the Hunas Falls Hotel. Set in a spectacular location in the cool hills above Kandy.

We include a stop at the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage and a full day sightseeing in Kandy. Includes all meals, but please note that drinks are not included during this excursion/stay, and we regret you will need to check out of your room at Seashells. From £145 per person extra

Kerala Extension

Combine your stay at the Seashells Hotel with 5 nights on the tropical beaches of Southern India.

In 2008 we will be featuring the tranquil resort of Isola di Coco, nestled within 35 acres of coconut groves and peaceful lagoons. The main beach is accessed by a complimentary boat, but you can also enjoy a large swimming pool and Ayurvedic treatments. From £225 per person extra (2008 only)

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