Cape Weligama has been named to the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lankan hospitality and reinforcing the island’s growing stature in the global luxury travel landscape. The prestigious recognition places Cape Weligama among an exclusive selection of the world’s finest hotels and resorts, celebrating properties that consistently deliver exceptional experiences and set international benchmarks for excellence.
Curated annually by the editors of Condé Nast Traveller, the Gold List is regarded as one of the most respected accolades in the travel industry. Inclusion reflects sustained quality rather than fleeting success, highlighting hotels and resorts that excel across service, design, setting, and authenticity. Cape Weligama’s presence on the 2026 list signals its emergence as a destination of global relevance and enduring appeal.
Set dramatically atop a clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Cape Weligama is celebrated for its sweeping views, refined architecture, and immersive sense of place. Designed as a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Sri Lankan coastal village, the resort balances understated luxury with cultural authenticity. Its spacious villas and suites, generous communal areas, and intuitive service philosophy have earned it a reputation for elegance that feels both relaxed and deeply rooted in its surroundings.
Malik J. Fernando, Chairman of Resplendent Ceylon, described the recognition as both a tribute to the resort’s people and a moment of pride for the country.
He said that being included in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List is a tremendous honour and one that belongs first and foremost to the team at Cape Weligama, whose passion and dedication define every guest experience. He added that the recognition also carries wider significance for Sri Lanka, particularly at a time when positive global stories matter deeply. According to him, the award shines a light on the country’s resilience, its warm hospitality, and the unforgettable experiences it offers travellers from around the world.
The Condé Nast Traveller Gold List is known for its rigorous editorial process and long-term perspective. Properties are selected not simply for novelty, but for their ability to deliver consistently high standards year after year. For Cape Weligama, this acknowledgement reflects a clear vision of luxury grounded in authenticity, thoughtful design, and a genuine connection to place.
Cape Weligama is the only Sri Lankan resort to feature on the 2026 Gold List, further elevating its position as a standard bearer for the nation’s luxury tourism sector. The accolade also adds to a growing list of international honours for the resort and its parent company, Resplendent Ceylon. Cape Weligama has recently been awarded a Michelin Key, joining Ceylon Tea Trails and Wild Coast Tented Lodge in receiving this recognition for exceptional hospitality. Together, these distinctions underscore Resplendent Ceylon’s leadership in shaping Sri Lanka’s high-end travel offering.
Luxury at Cape Weligama is expressed through space, privacy, and a deep respect for the natural environment. Villas and suites are positioned to maximise ocean views and seclusion, while the resort’s shared spaces encourage a sense of community and ease.
Guests are invited to engage with the destination at their own pace, whether through curated dining experiences, wellness rituals, or quiet moments overlooking the sea.
The recognition comes at a pivotal time for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which is experiencing renewed momentum following a period of significant challenges. As global travel demand rebounds, international accolades such as the Condé Nast Traveller Gold List play a crucial role in restoring confidence and visibility. Cape Weligama’s inclusion sends a strong signal to international travellers and industry stakeholders that Sri Lanka is not only open, but capable of delivering world class experiences that stand alongside the most celebrated destinations globally.
Beyond its physical beauty and refined service, Cape Weligama reflects Resplendent Ceylon’s broader philosophy of luxury with purpose. Sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation are integral to the resort’s operations. From responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship to meaningful contributions to local livelihoods, the resort’s approach aligns with the values of today’s increasingly conscious travellers.
Resplendent Ceylon is the hospitality arm of Dilmah Ceylon Tea, one of the world’s most recognised and respected tea brands. Founded on principles of quality, integrity, and ethical business, Dilmah’s philosophy is deeply embedded across the group’s hospitality portfolio. This heritage is reflected in an approach to luxury that prioritises authenticity, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of responsibility.
As the sole Sri Lankan member of Relais and Châteaux, Resplendent Ceylon offers discerning travellers a carefully curated journey across the island. Its collection of small luxury resorts includes Ceylon Tea Trails in the Central Highlands, Wild Coast Tented Lodge on the edge of Yala National Park, and Cape Weligama on the southern coast. Each property is located within a distinctive and environmentally outstanding setting, offering guests a different perspective on Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness.
The group’s expanding portfolio, which also includes Ahu Bay and Kayaam Wellness, continues to explore new expressions of contemporary Sri Lankan luxury. Across all its properties, Resplendent Ceylon remains committed to celebrating the island’s heritage and biodiversity while making meaningful contributions to conservation and community development.
Cape Weligama’s inclusion in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List is therefore more than an individual achievement. It represents a broader affirmation of Sri Lanka’s potential as a leading luxury destination and a vote of confidence in the country’s tourism renaissance. The recognition highlights what can be achieved when hospitality is guided by vision, purpose, and a deep respect for place.
As international travellers increasingly seek destinations that combine authenticity, sustainability, and exceptional service, Cape Weligama stands as a compelling example of Sri Lankan hospitality at its finest. The accolade reinforces the island’s position on the global luxury travel map and signals a promising future for a destination rich in beauty, culture, and enduring appeal.
