Heritance Kandalama

At the moment it seems the global travel industry has its sights set on Sri Lanka, and why not? The splendid climate, lush landscapes and pristine beaches make it a natural choice, now that the political situation has settled. But the action isn’t only happening down on the coasts. Dambulla, in central Sri Lanka, is home to a number of ancient Buddhist temples, many comprising an underground cave complex — and just outside of Dambulla is a man-made lake, and on its shores a more contemporary architectural wonder, nestled into a cliffside: the Kandalama Hotel.

This unique situation is the handiwork of the famed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, who personally selected the site with an eye to the dramatic possibilities. The building itself is low-slung, unassuming, unspectacular, stretching for a kilometer along the shore, difficult to take in all at once; the view that counts, of course, is the view of Kandalama Lake from the hotel’s balconies.

Guest rooms are quietly contemporary, centered around the views of the lake, and come with all the modern necessities — air conditioning, satellite television, and 24-hour room service. Facilities are suitably comprehensive, including three restaurants, three pools, tennis courts and a fitness center. And of course the lake offers myriad recreational possibilities, its calm waters the perfect environment for a swim or a boating excursion. Dambulla’s bars and restaurants are just seven miles away, as are the temples of the cave complex.

How to get there: Securing hotel transfer from the airport or any transportation can be challenging for first-time visitors to Sri Lanka.