8 Geoffrey Bawa-Designed Hotels in Sri Lanka (2025)

Sri Lanka’s most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa, designed iconic residential houses, public buildings and striking hotels across the island. Dedicated Bawa aficionados will be thrilled not only to visit Sri Lanka's Parliament Building and the Ruhuna University Campus, but to spend the night in intimate boutique boltholes and spectacular hotels which reflect the architect’s tropical modernist style.

If you choose to stop at just one Bawa-designed property, his private country retreat — Lunuganga — is dazzling. Travellers to Colombo will find Number 11, the architect’s city pad, also well worth visiting. Both host regular tours, and have been carefully preserved by the Geoffrey Bawa Trust since the architect’s death in 2003.

To truly immerse yourself in the brilliance of Bawa, however, you can plan an entire itinerary around his creations, venturing from the city up to Sigiriya, before making your way along the south and west coasts. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, or with friends and family, Geoffrey Bawa’s designs are a wonderful way to glimpse Sri Lanka’s creativity — particularly as many showcase the work of fellow artists and craftspeople.

For an Urban Bolthole

• De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa is hidden on a leafy lane in Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo’s most upmarket neighbourhood. Built in the 1980s as a private home, the house has characterful guest rooms with terracotta or polished concrete floors, wooden antiques and handwoven textiles. Intimate and tranquil, now a small boutique hotel.

For a Beach Break

• The Villa Bentota was once owned by Bawa himself. Originally built as a private home, this 14-bedroom hotel is now managed by the team behind the iconic Kahanda Kanda, and sits just across the railway tracks from Bentota Beach. Expect two swimming pools, chic guest rooms with block printed textiles and an airy seaside feel, accompanied by top-notch service. Elegant and grown-up, this is a popular venue for celebrations. 
• Club Villa Bentota, neighbouring The Villa, was designed in part by Geoffrey Bawa. Relaxed and friendly, this bright beachfront hotel has a refreshing pool, well-stocked games room and flexible spaces for families. Colourful, laid-back and charming. 
• The Last House, on the golden sands of Mawella Beach near Tangalle, has a playful feel with its ochre yellow exterior and bright blue doors and windows. Breezy guest rooms feature antique furnishings, handloom fabrics and exposed beams. Book the whole villa if travelling as a bigger group, and enjoy yoga classes, Ayurvedic massages or rambles along the beach. Architecture aficionados will love the Geoffrey Bawa connection. 

For a Rural Retreat

• Lunuganga was once Geoffrey Bawa’s verdant lakeside retreat. Hugely romantic, this is the ideal escape for couples looking to unwind within gorgeous gardens. Kick back in one of ten scattered rooms and suites, take guided garden tours, and feast at the lake-facing restaurant. Enormously charming. 
• Heritance Kandalama, a stunning modernist hotel, promises fantastic views towards Sigiriya. Expect a spoiling spa, whirlpool baths, a games room and tennis court, along with multiple bars and eateries. A luxurious choice for fans of Bawa's architecture, with a spectacular façade covered in lush vegetation. 

For a Family-Friendly Resort

• Cinnamon Bentota Beach is another family favourite, with 177 guest rooms facing the Bentota River. Created by Bawa in the 1960s, the hotel features sculptures by Laki Senanayake and batik ceilings by designers Ena de Silva and Barbara Sansoni. A recent restoration has returned the hotel to its original glory, and multiple pools, a kids' games room, spa and eateries await. 
• Jetwing Lighthouse overlooking craggy rocks and charming Galle Fort, definitely delivers when it comes to a dramatic location. Many of the 85 rooms have dazzling sea views, plus there's a tennis court, two pools, multiple dining options and a soothing spa. Ideal for families or couples, as well as art lovers who can admire Laki Senanayake's superb staircase — an iconic collaboration between Geoffrey Bawa and one of the island's most-loved artists. 

Still Not Sure? 

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Alternatively, check out our list of 9 of the Best Wildlife Hotels in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.