Yala's Hidden Gem

Zoha Castelino visits the Hilton Yala Resort, where elegance meets nature

As I embarked on my long journey from Colombo airport to the Hilton Yala Resort, nestled all the way on the east coast of Sri Lanka in the heart of Yala National Park, I was filled with anticipation and excitement. The resort promised a unique blend of luxury and wilderness, a concept that intrigued me as an adventure-seeking traveller.

On arrival, I was greeted with the warmest of welcomes at the lobby which is a masterpiece of modern architecture, integrating perfectly with its natural surroundings. I met with general manager Gitanjali Chakravarthy, whose passion for sustainable luxury was evident in every element of the resort.

Day one was about lounging and absorbing the tranquillity of my own private villa. The room - a haven of serenity and luxury, offered unparalleled views of the park. The interiors, adorned with local art, reflected the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka, while the amenities provided utmost comfort. I spent most of the afternoon in the private pool that comes with all their stand-alone villas, surrounded by butterflies of every colour and the orchestra of birds from the trees around me.

Dining at the resort was an adventure in itself. Executive chef Jerome Tissera, a maestro in the culinary arts, has crafted menus that celebrate local flavours with a modern twist. Each meal was a journey through the diverse culinary landscape of Sri Lanka, from spicy curries to fresh seafood, all sourced locally to support the community and reduce the resort's carbon footprint.