Elite Traveler May-June 2018

INSPIRE TOP NEWHOTELS

WI LD COAST TENTED LODGE YALA , SRI LANKA OPENED NOVEMBER 2017 Quite unlike any other resort in this part of the world, Wild Coast Tented Lodge Yala looks as though it’s been transported from rock-strewn African plains, pairing a safari aesthetic with a unique setting between a wild stretch of Sri Lanka’s southern coast and Yala National Park. The park features more leopards per acre than any other place on earth, and in homage, the forested resort’s cocoon-like standalone suites are arranged in a formation that mirrors the shape of a leopard’s paw prints. Soaring ceilings and double-height glass sides maximize the views from each tented suite, where teak floors and canvas walls meet safari-inspired four-poster beds and freestanding copper bathtubs. Choose a beach-facing suite to have your own plunge pool overlooking the sand dunes and rocky shores. Designed to reflect the coastline’s boulders, the open-air bamboo- clad restaurant and bar is as striking as the suites. Soak in the lodge’s free-form wraparound swimming pool, dine on Sri Lankan dishes from a menu that changes daily, and catch the sunset with a cocktail. A picnic amid the dunes is another tempting option. THE EXPERIENCE Accompany a knowledgeable naturalist guide and search for the leopards, elephants and sloth bears the region is famous for in the neighboring national park. With years of experience, the camp’s guides can take you to the quietest corners of the park and provide insightful commentary every step of the way. Cocoon Pool Suite from $507 per person per night. Contact Dilshan Gnanapragasam, general manager, dilshan.gnanapragasam@ resplendentceylon.com, +94 117 745 708, resplendentceylon.com