Our story
Based in Sri Lanka since 2017, our small team of travel specialists has experienced a whole host of island hideaways – from the hip beach retreats of the south coast to the beautiful luxury hotels of the hill country. And, spotting a gap in the market for personal insights and recommendations, we decided to share our favourite chic, unique and boutique spots across this captivating country. Lanka Hideaways was born – and we now pride ourselves on offering honest reviews, local know-how, expert travel tips and indispensable insider info, all to ensure you get the best out of your trip to the teardrop isle.
Our ethos
We visit every hotel
Each of our listings is a personal recommendation and every hotel we feature is one we’ve visited, experienced and loved. Lanka Hideaways offers a hand-picked selection of our favourite places to stay in Sri Lanka, as sampled by us.
We’re always honest
Even the best hotels aren’t completely perfect, which is why we give you the good bits and the little niggles for every listing. We’re honest in our reviews, so that you know the bigger picture before you make a booking.
We give you the local know-how
Our team in Sri Lanka is passionate about sharing expert local know-how gained through personal experience. From travel advice and sample itineraries to restaurant suggestions and reading lists, we take pride in sharing truly useful tips for your trip.
Our team
Chris Rowlands
Co-founder
A writer by trade, Chris came to Sri Lanka to teach English and, 6 months later, found he simply couldn’t leave. Still scribbling here and there, when he’s not tinkering with the code that keeps Lanka Hideaways up and running, he’s seeking out fresh textures for his photography project, Textures of Lanka, or dreaming up new designs for fledgling t-shirt brand Ceylon Tee Co.
Favourite getaway: Amanta Beach Resort, Nilaveli
Top tip: A little bit of Sinhala goes a long way, especially when you’re negotiating for a trishaw down south
Dinner of choice: Egg kotthu, every time
Saskia Walker
Co-founder
Saskia first felt the pull of Sri Lanka while researching for a travel company. Now, one teaching job, two years and countless curries later, she’s fully in thrall to the teardrop island. Besides the golden light of a Lankan sunset and the loud delight of a win for the cricket team, she loves devouring books about the island nation – as her burgeoning home library attests.
Favourite getaway: The Bungalow, Galle Fort
Top tip: Small change is the currency of snack stalls and tuk tuks, so be sure to break big notes at the bank
Dinner of choice: Prawn curry and plenty of dhal