The Fortress, Sri Lanka 5*

Designed in the style of a powerful fortress, this remarkable and innovative resort blends historic Dutch and Portuguese architecture with Sri Lankan motifs. Rising next to the Koggala Beach, its walls enclose verdant gardens and water features, an Ayurvedic spa, a free flow swimming pool, a wine cellar, restaurants, boutiques and exquisitely appointed rooms, lofts and residences.

All rooms feature an enormous 7ft by 7ft bed, superb open plan bathroom, plasma TV with Bose surround sound, DVD player, air-conditioning and espresso machine.

Each overlooks the garden or sea and includes daybeds.

Dining options include Pepper Restaurant, serving authentic Sri Lanken dishes. Heat, is the place to savour hot creations from the wood-fire pizza oven and glass cave.

Garden with water features, Sri Lankan tea room, yoga pavilion, gym and free flow swimming pool.

Lime spa offers a choice of Ayurvedic and international therapies.