Cape Weligama, a distinguished Relais & Châteaux property and part of Resplendent Ceylon, is proud to announce a deep refresh in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

Nestled on the sun-kissed southern coast of Sri Lanka, Cape Weligama stands as the quintessential gateway to the island's enchanting southern riviera. Flanked by the vibrant locales of Ahangama, Midigama, Weligama, and Galle, this picturesque haven offers a blend of serene luxury and adventurous spirit.

I got ready and was kindly gifted a pair of leech socks by the bungalow manager. Even though it was during the dry season and encountering leeches was unlikely, I was not going to take a chance. In true hiking fashion, I put the leech socks on accompanied by a fanny pack, just in case my hands must be free to break a possible fall. Setting off from Dunkeld Bungalow, Hashan and I braced ourselves for what we knew would be a tiring trek. As we began our ascent, conversation flowed effortlessly between us. Hashan, a knowledgeable naturalist, shared insights into the history of the tea estates, recounting how the British had brought Indian workers to cultivate the tea fields, leading to the establishment of a vibrant Tamil community in the region. His words resonated deeply with me, highlighting the immense contribution of this community to the legacy of Ceylon Tea. The very tea we enjoy across the world and the same tea I had enjoyed so much earlier that morning.

Summer on our teardrop isle is magical. Picture misty mornings in the Central Highlands surrounded by the emerald green tea fields, golden sunsets and the allure of the Indian Ocean lapping at your feet in the South, and diverse habitats, ecology and scenery across many national parks and sanctuaries. Arrive and experience a resplendent summer.

Amidst an evening of elegance and celebration on the 12th of March, we gathered to honour the luminaries of our establishment, the ambassadors who epitomise the essence of hospitality at The Resplendent Awards. Congratulations resonated through the hall as we applauded the well-deserved winners of the Resplendent Awards, each category a testament to the dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment exhibited throughout the year.

It’s no secret that Ahangama houses some of the most Instagrammed dining spots in the island right now. Frequented by digital nomads and those with an eye for design, this once sleepy fishing village has cemented itself as Sri Lanka’s most vibrant surf town, with a continuously evolving food scene. Take a stroll along its tiny alleyways and you’ll quickly notice contemporary chic cafes, tropical design-led bistros, rooftop sunset bars and elegant dining venues tucked away in its green jungles. With new spots open every peak tourist season (it’s when the surf's up with bright blue skies), Ahangama’s culinary scene is only going to be more varied, and exciting—and you can go from sampling island-inspired small plates to trendy hangouts serving avo on toast within a couple of hours. This is our edit of Ahangama’s favourite cafes, bars and restaurants for anyone visiting the south coast’s lively beach town.