COLOMBO, SRI LANKA – Resplendent Ceylon is proud to announce that Cape Weligama has been honoured with a coveted spot on the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List. This recognition celebrates the world’s finest hotels and resorts, positioning Cape Weligama among an elite group of global luxury destinations and marking a significant milestone for Sri Lankan tourism.
The Condé Nast Traveller Gold List is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and respected accolades in the travel industry. Selection is a testament to a property’s consistent excellence, architectural integrity, and ability to provide a transformative guest experience. In the 2026 edition, Cape Weligama distinguishes itself as the sole Sri Lankan resort to be featured, underscoring its unique appeal on the international stage.
The inclusion comes at a pivotal moment for the island’s tourism sector. Beyond the architectural grandeur of the clifftop resort, the award recognizes the “human element” that defines Resplendent Ceylon’s ethos. Malik J. Fernando, Chairman of Resplendent Ceylon, commented on the achievement:“We are incredibly honoured that Cape Weligama has been included in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List. This recognition belongs, first and foremost, to our incredible team, whose passion defines everything we do. But it’s also a moment of encouragement for Sri Lanka as a whole, especially at this time. When the country needs positive stories, this award shines a light on our resilience, our hospitality, and the unforgettable experiences Sri Lanka offers travellers.”
Perched on a headland overlooking the Indian Ocean, Cape Weligama has long been celebrated for its stunning vistas, world-class dining, and spacious private villas. This latest accolade joins a growing portfolio of honours for the resort, which recently earned a Michelin Key—the new global benchmark for excellence in hospitality.
With this recognition, Cape Weligama joins its sister properties, Ceylon Tea Trails and Wild Coast Tented Lodge, in a rare tier of excellence. Together, these properties have all secured Michelin Key status, further solidifying Resplendent Ceylon’s reputation as the definitive leader in the country’s luxury travel landscape.
The 2026 Gold List arrives as Sri Lanka’s tourism industry continues its impressive trajectory of rebuilding and thriving. Cape Weligama’s presence on this global list provides a timely boost to the nation’s visibility, reinforcing the island’s capability to deliver world-class, sophisticated experiences that rival any destination globally. As international travellers increasingly seek authenticity paired with uncompromising luxury, Cape Weligama remains at the forefront, showcasing the very best of the “Resplendent” spirit.
BY NELUM BUDDHADASA