Sri Lanka - Ceylon Slow
Sri Lanka the Lido Way
Most itineraries are designed to show you as much as possible.
This one is designed to help you feel different.
Less rushing. Less packing and unpacking.
More time in one place and in yourself.
22 November – 30 November 2026
9 Days | 8 Nights
COAST | CULTURE | CONNECTION | SLOW LUXURY
Hosted by Paula Fletcher
Booking & Payment Information
Shared Suite from AUD $9,500 per person
Private Suite from AUD $10,500 per person
To confirm your place, a non refundable deposit of AUD $1,500 is required at the time of booking.
Secure Your Place
What This Is
This is a 9-day small-group journey through Sri Lanka designed to feel calm, considered and easy from the moment you arrive.
Beginning in Negombo 20 mins from the airport, the journey moves through a small number of carefully chosen locations including Sri Lanka’s hill country, a national park and the country’s south coast.
Rather than constantly changing hotels, we stay longer in fewer places allowing time to properly settle in rather than continuously packing, unpacking and moving on.
Throughout the journey, accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to reflect each setting from misty mountain landscapes and a short safari stay to several nights within a private beachfront villa on the coast.
Days balance lightly guided experiences with unstructured time for swimming, walking, resting or simply doing very little at all.
Along the way, curated experiences have been designed to feel immersive and specific to place without filling every hour of the day.
Private rooms are included throughout the journey unless travelling with a friend and choosing to share.
Every detail from how we move between locations to the pacing of each day has been carefully considered so the experience feels smooth, relaxed and effortless throughout.
Hosted by Paula Fletcher, founder of Lido Atelier.
Why Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka offers a rare combination of elements that make this style of travel feel both effortless and deeply restorative.
The south coast brings warm ocean water, palm-lined beaches and a naturally slower rhythm — the kind of place where mornings begin with a swim and afternoons stretch easily into sunset drinks by the water.
Within just a few hours, the landscape shifts completely. Moving inland, the air cools, tea country emerges through the mist and the pace becomes quieter and more spacious.
It’s this contrast between coast and hill country that makes Sri Lanka feel so special. The journey offers variety and richness without the exhaustion of constantly moving.
There is also a softness to Sri Lanka that stays with you. Beautiful design, local craftsmanship, incredible food and genuine warmth can all be experienced in a way that feels relaxed rather than overly curated or overwhelming.
The result is a journey that feels immersive yet unhurried one that allows you to properly settle into each place rather than simply pass through it.
Itinerary
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After meeting at Jetwing Blue hotel foyer in Negombo this morning, we'll begin our journey into Sri Lanka's beautiful hill country.
We'll pause for lunch overlooking the hills of Kandy before continuing into the cooler mountain air of Nuwara Eliya, arriving at the historic Grand Hotel with time to settle in before dinner.
After a long travel day, this slower start allows us to unwind, enjoy our surroundings and ease gently into the rhythm of Sri Lanka.
OVERNIGHT: GRAND HOTEL MEALS: LUNCH DINNER
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Wake to the crisp mountain air of Sri Lanka's tea country before boarding one of the world's most spectacular train journeys*. As the train winds through emerald tea plantations, mist-covered hills and tiny villages, this is slow travel at its very best.
There's no need to worry about your luggage while you relax and enjoy the journey, your bags will travel separately by road and will be waiting for you when you arrive at 98 Acres Resort.
On arrival in Ella, we'll make our way to 98 Acres Resort, where the afternoon is yours to settle in, soak up the views, swim, enjoy a Spa treatment or simply relax before dinner overlooking the surrounding hills.
OVERNIGHT: 98 ACRES RESORT & SPA
MEALS: BREAKFAST, DINNER
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Rise early for an optional short sunrise hike to Little Adam's Peak, where panoramic views across Sri Lanka's hill country are well worth the early start. If you prefer a slower beginning, enjoy an optional gentle yoga session overlooking the Ella Gap before breakfast.
The rest of the morning is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment or simply soak up the breathtaking views from 98 Acres.
Later this afternoon, we'll head out on a guided walk through the surrounding tea plantations, meeting local tea pickers and witnessing the remarkable skill of the traditional toddy tapper as he scales towering palm trees using techniques passed down through generations.
This evening we'll wander into the heart of Ella for dinner together before returning to the hotel.
OVERNIGHT: 98 ACRES RESORT & SPA
MEALS: BREAKFAST, DINNER
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After breakfast, we depart the hill country and travel toward Udawalawe National Park, where Sri Lanka’s landscape shifts from misty mountains to open wilderness.
After checking into our safari lodge, we head out on an afternoon safari in search of elephants, birdlife and the region’s extraordinary natural beauty before returning for a relaxed evening together.
OVERNIGHT: SAFARI LODGE
MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER
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The day begins with an early morning safari through Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s best known regions for elephant sightings and wildlife experiences.
After breakfast back at the lodge, we continue south toward the coast, arriving at our private villa near Talpe and Galle by afternoon.
The remainder of the day is intentionally slow time to settle into villa life, enjoy the ocean air, swim, unwind and ease into the softer rhythm of Sri Lanka’s south coast before a hosted dinner together at the villa.
OVERNIGHT: PRIVATE BEACHFRONT VILLA, THALPE
MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER
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The morning begins slowly with optional yoga at the villa before spending time swimming, relaxing and exploring some of the south coast’s quieter beaches and coastal stretches.
Later in the afternoon, we head into Galle for a private classic car experience through the historic fort and surrounding streets through a curated local experience focused on design, culture, storytelling and artisan discovery. Wander through hidden laneways, boutiques, cafés and galleries before dinner together in Galle.
OVERNIGHT: PRIVATE BEACHFRONT VILLA, THALPE
MEALS: BREAKFAST, DINNER
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The morning is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Join an optional yoga session at the villa, take a swim, enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the ocean or simply settle into the slower rhythm of coastal life. For those who would like one, in-villa massage treatments will be arranged throughout the morning.
Later this afternoon, we'll set off on a relaxed cycle through Sri Lanka's coastal villages to visit a remarkable family-run weaving workshop that has remained in the same family for more than 70 years. Passionate about supporting the local community, the current owner has created meaningful employment opportunities for women from the surrounding villages while preserving the traditional art of hand weaving.
If cycling isn't for you, don't worry I have a special alternative planned, so everyone can enjoy the experience together.
We'll spend time meeting the women behind the craft, learning about the weaving process and browsing the beautiful textiles before returning to the villa.
This evening, we'll head out for dinner at one of the south coast's favourite local restaurants before returning to Villa
OVERNIGHT: PRIVATE BEACHFRONT VILLA, THALPE
MEALS: BREAKFAST, DINNER
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The morning begins slowly with optional yoga at the villa before we head further along Sri Lanka’s south coast to experience a different side of the region’s coastal culture.
With its laidback cafés, surf coastline, boutique shopping and relaxed beach clubs, the Weligama and Ahangama area offers a more vibrant contrast to the quieter rhythm of Talpe.
The day is intentionally unhurried, with time to explore local boutiques, enjoy long lunches, beachside cocktails and the energy of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline before returning to the villa for our final dinner together on the coast.
OVERNIGHT: PRIVATE BEACHFRONT VILLA, THALPE
MEALS: BREAKFAST, DINNER
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After a leisurely breakfast, we'll leave the coast and make our way towards Colombo, stopping at Barefoot, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic lifestyle stores. Here, we'll enjoy a relaxed lunch while browsing beautifully handwoven textiles, artisan homewares and locally crafted pieces that celebrate Sri Lanka's rich creative heritage.
If schedules allow, we'll also look for opportunities to connect with members of Sri Lanka's creative community, adding another layer to our final day together.
For guests departing on evening flights, I've arranged rooms where you can freshen up and relax before your airport transfer. Those extending their stay in Sri Lanka are welcome to arrange their own accommodation, and I'm happy to share recommendations. If you're staying on in Colombo, you may also wish to explore the city further with an optional walking tour through some of the city's most interesting design stores, galleries and creative spaces.
As our journey comes to an end, we'll gather for one final farewell dinner before airport transfers are arranged for guests departing that evening.
MEALS: BREAKFAST DINNER
*Please note that some experiences, accommodations and elements of the itinerary may be refined prior to departure to ensure the best possible retreat experience.
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Our journey begins in Negombo, close to Colombo International Airport.
Please plan to arrive in Sri Lanka the day before. We’ll meet at Jetwing Blue Hotel on Day 1 Negombo, before travelling together into Sri Lanka’s hill country.
On the final day, we’ll leave the villa on the south coast and make our way back towards Colombo and Negombo.
For guests flying out that evening, day rooms will be arranged at The Wallawwa in Negombo so you can shower, change and relax before your airport transfer.
Those with later flights may choose to travel directly to the airport, or join us for a relaxed afternoon in Colombo before continuing on to Negombo.
If you are planning to arrive earlier or stay on after the journey, you’ll need to arrange your own additional accommodation and transfers. I’m very happy to help with suggestions if you’d like to extend your time in Sri Lanka.
This journey has been designed to move at a slower, more considered pace — balancing Sri Lanka’s hill country, wildlife, coastline and city life without trying to see everything at once.
Over nine days, we travel through four distinct chapters: the lush hills of Ella, the safari landscapes of Udawalawe, four unhurried nights in a private villa near Galle, and a final Colombo stay that makes departure feel calm and considered.
Each move has a purpose. Scenic walks and mountain air. Wildlife and open landscapes. Ocean swims, long lunches and relaxed evenings on the south coast. Then a final night in Colombo for design, food and an easy departure.
The journey combines curated experiences with generous free time to rest, explore or simply enjoy being in Sri Lanka without feeling rushed.
Hosted by Lido Atelier founder Paula Fletcher, this journey has been thoughtfully designed with a slower rhythm, beautiful surroundings and space to properly exhale.
An intimate small-group departure, limited to a maximum of seven women.
Private suites are available throughout the journey, with a limited number of shared suites available for friends travelling together.
Accomodations
Hill Country
Three nights in Sri Lanka's breathtaking hill country, staying between the historic Grand Hotel, Nuwara Eliya and 98 Acres Resort in Ella. Expect cool mountain air, sweeping tea plantations and some of the island's most spectacular scenery.
Safari
A relaxed safari lodge experience near Udawalawe National Park, chosen for its quieter atmosphere and access to exceptional elephant sightings.
South Coast Villa
Four nights in a beautifully designed private villa near Talpe and Galle, with dedicated staff, coastal living, ocean swims and slow afternoons by the water.
Departure Day
For guests departing on the final day, airport transfers will be arranged. Those with later flights will have access to day rooms to relax and freshen up before travelling to the airport. Guests wishing to extend their stay in Colombo are welcome to do so and can arrange additional accommodation independently.
The Villa
Imagine slow mornings that begin with an ocean swim, coffee barefoot in the garden and long afternoons that unfold without needing to be anywhere else.
Our final days in Sri Lanka are spent within a private beachfront villa in Talpe on the country’s south coast — a place designed for slowing down properly. Framed by palm trees and the Indian Ocean, the villa becomes home for the final chapter of the journey, with time to swim, rest, gather for long lunches and simply settle into the rhythm of coastal Sri Lanka.
Hidden behind tropical gardens and opening directly toward the sea, the villa feels both expansive and deeply private. Mornings begin with the sound of the ocean, afternoons drift between the pool, shaded terraces and nearby beach clubs, and evenings unfold over candlelit dinners prepared by the villa’s private chef.
With beautifully layered interiors, oversized suites and a dedicated house team quietly taking care of everything in the background, this is the kind of place that changes the pace of how you feel within a day or two of arriving.
More than simply somewhere we stay, the villa becomes part of the experience itself — a space to properly exhale after the movement of the journey and savour Sri Lanka at its most relaxed, warm and effortless.
Rooms at The Villa
Master Suite
The villa’s most expansive suite, the Master Suite is designed for guests seeking additional space and privacy. Featuring a king-sized bed, separate living area and sweeping ocean views, the suite combines beautifully layered coastal interiors with generous indoor-outdoor living to create a calm and elevated retreat within the villa.
Ocean Suite
Wake to sweeping views across the Indian Ocean from one of the villa’s most beautifully positioned suites. Featuring a king-sized bed, private terrace, palm-shaded lawn and an open-air jacuzzi plunge courtyard, the Ocean Suite offers an elevated level of privacy and coastal luxury within the villa.
Garden Retreat Suite
A spacious ground floor suite opening onto a private courtyard garden, thoughtfully designed for relaxed coastal living. The suite features one king-sized bed and one single bed, along with twin washbasins and both indoor and outdoor rain showers.
Shared suite availability is limited and best suited to friends travelling together.
Garden Suite
Opening onto a private light-filled garden courtyard, the Garden Suite offers a calm and beautifully relaxed retreat within the villa. Featuring a king-sized bed, twin washbasins and both indoor and outdoor rain showers, the suite blends understated luxury with Sri Lanka’s indoor-outdoor coastal living.
What’s included
Journey Inclusions
Eight nights across a small number of carefully chosen stays from Colombo to Sri Lanka’s hill country, a national park and the south coast including a fully staffed private beachfront villa in Thalpe with a dedicated chef and house team.
All in-country transport and private transfers throughout the journey, designed to be seamless, comfortable and thoughtfully paced.
Daily breakfasts, selected lunches on transfer days and all evening meals, centred around local flavours and relaxed shared dining.
A considered program of guided experiences, including a curated Galle experience, coastal cycling, local cultural moments and time exploring Sri Lanka’s south coast.
Safari experiences in Udawalawe National Park timed around quieter wildlife viewing opportunities.
Time in Sri Lanka’s hill country, including guided walks, slower mornings and optional wellness experiences.
Access to carefully selected swimming locations, chosen for their beauty, atmosphere and suitability for the group.
A balance of guided experiences and intentionally slower time to rest, explore or simply enjoy the rhythm of the journey.
Seamless luggage handling between locations, along with entry fees for included experiences and activities.
Personally hosted throughout by Paula Fletcher, founder of Lido Atelier.
Private airport transfer upon journey completion
Gratuities for included guides, drivers and local experience providers
Journey Exclusions
International flights
Travel insurance, compulsory
Arrival airport transfers prior to retreat commencement and departure transfers after the retreat concludes, however these can be arranged for you
Lunches and selected meals not outlined within the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses and additional spa or wellness treatments
Join Us in Sri Lanka
A slower, more considered journey through Sri Lanka designed for women seeking connection, beautiful places and space to truly exhale.
Places are intentionally limited to maintain the intimacy of the experience.
To secure your booking full or arrange a call for more details:
hello@lidoatelier.com
@lido.atelier
+61 420 27 8846
Booking & Payment Information
Shared Suite from AUD $9,500 per person
Private Suite from AUD $10,500 per person
To confirm your place, a non refundable deposit of AUD $1,500 is required at the time of booking.
The remaining balance will be split across two staged payments prior to departure:
Second payment due: 31 July 2026
Final balance due: 31 August 2026
Villa Accommodation & Rooming
Private rooms are included throughout the journey.
During our four-night stay on Sri Lanka’s south coast, guests will stay within a beautifully designed private beachfront villa near Galle, shared exclusively with the group.
The villa features a small collection of individually designed suites, each with its own unique character and connection to the surrounding gardens or ocean. Room allocations have been thoughtfully considered to ensure every guest enjoys a beautiful and comfortable stay.
A limited number of twin-share rooms are available for friends travelling together.
For guests seeking a more elevated experience, an optional upgrade to the villa’s premium Master Ocean Suite is available for an additional AUD $500.
Further room details and availability will be provided upon booking confirmation.
This retreat requires a minimum number of guests to proceed. In the unlikely event minimum numbers are not met, all deposits paid will be fully refunded.
Places are intentionally limited to maintain the intimacy and relaxed pace of the experience.
Meet Your Host
Paula Fletcher is the founder of Lido Atelier, a design-led travel and lifestyle brand creating thoughtfully curated coastal experiences and small-group journeys for women.
Based in Sydney, Paula brings together a background in design, a lifelong connection to the ocean and extensive travel throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North and South America to create escapes that feel immersive, beautifully considered and deeply restorative.
But more than anything, Paula is simply someone who understands the season of life many women find themselves in.
She’s been the corporate professional, the wife, the mother the woman trying to hold everything together while quietly craving space to breathe again.
Lido Atelier was created from a desire to offer something different from traditional touring experiences: slower, more thoughtful journeys that balance beautiful places, local culture, connection and time to properly exhale.
Paula isn’t a travel influencer or wellness guru. What guests connect with is her warmth, honesty and ability to create an atmosphere that feels relaxed, welcoming and genuinely real.
Throughout the Sri Lanka journey, Paula will personally host the group, bringing thoughtful details, humour, energy and a calm, caring presence from beginning to end.
Secure Your Place
