Wild Coast Tented Lodge (Relais & Châteaux)

Wild Coast Tented Lodge sits on the edge of Yala National Park in southeast Sri Lanka, with jungle behind and the ocean close by. The accommodation is a cluster of cocoon-shaped tents at the park's edge, and some come with a private plunge pool.

It is a Relais & Châteaux property and runs on an all-inclusive basis. Meals are served outdoors with Sri Lankan food and contemporary touches, and one guided game drive per night is included. Resplendent Ceylon, which runs the lodge, presents it as a setting for outdoor weddings, intimate celebrations and milestone events. This is a safari wedding rather than a beach resort one, so it suits small, adventurous groups.

The lodge sits on a wild, secluded stretch of sand facing the Indian Ocean, so ask the team where the ceremony could be held. Packages are tailored rather than fixed, and for more than 30 guests Resplendent Ceylon suggests taking the whole lodge. Ask the team about final guest numbers and the music curfew.

Dining is outdoors and the Dining Pavilion is the main restaurant, so ask where dinner could be set up. A game drive is a good way to give guests a shared activity before the evening, and the team can tell you how to fit it around the day.

There are 28 cocoons across the property, and the whole lodge can be booked for exclusive use.

Days here are built around the wild. The lodge lists guided safaris for leopards and elephants, birdwatching at Wirawila Tissa Sanctuary, nature and beach walks, cultural visits and cooking classes with the chef. There is Sanctuary Spa, a fitness room, an outdoor pool and bicycles, and an 18-hole golf course nearby. The journey is about three and a half hours from Colombo or the airport, with float plane and helicopter transfers also offered.