Nuwara Eliya to Bentota

Dean McMackin on 06 October 2025
Our final day in Sri Lanka began with breakfast and one last look at the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya before we set off for the coast. The journey took us from the cool mountain air down to the warm, sunny beaches of Bentota — it felt like the perfect way to end the trip, by the sea.

When we arrived, we checked into the Thaala Bentota Hotel, a lovely beachfront spot with a calm, laid-back feel. After days of travelling and exploring, it was great to just relax by the water, enjoy the sunshine, and take it all in.

In the afternoon, I went on a Tuk Tuk tour around Bentota on my own, which turned out to be a brilliant little adventure. Along the way, I made an unexpected stop at a turtle sanctuary, and it was honestly amazing. The team there looks after turtles of all sizes — from tiny hatchlings to fully grown adults, including some endangered species. Seeing the albino turtle up close was something really special and such a nice surprise to finish the trip with.

That evening, we had dinner at The Cinnamon Bentota Beach Hotel, which was the perfect way to wrap up our final night. The food was excellent, the setting was beautiful, and it felt like a fitting end to a wonderful journey.

It was a relaxing and memorable finish to an incredible trip through Sri Lanka — full of culture, scenery, great company, and plenty of moments to remember.