Blogs - Mount Havana

From Contemplation to Creation: One of the Best Creative Retreats in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is beautiful - there’s absolutely no denying that. What makes its beauty stand out is the varied landscape: from pretty beaches, magnificent mountains, and thick rainforests, to picturesque lagoons and lakes.

Writing and creating requires a clear mind and focus. The city, with its constant activity, chaos and noise, is far too distracting. Writers and creators often struggle to be productive in a busy city and prefer to go off on their own to a place that is quiet and calm. Nature has long been a source of inspiration, offering clarity and renewal of the mind. Writers and creators revel in natural surroundings, as it enables them to immerse themselves in their work and achieve creative breakthroughs. Mount Havana is the ideal spot for a creative retreat in Sri Lanka. It is peaceful, scenic and rejuvenating – the perfect location to get the creative juices flowing.


Tranquil Beauty


Hidden in the hills of Gampola, Mount Havana is surrounded by lush greenery. Away from urban distractions and the cacophony of the city, it is serene and quiet. The fresh mountain air and the soft sounds of nature set the perfect mood for creating. The 25-acre estate, with its quiet corners, garden pathways and serene pool overlooking the mountains, is a wonderful blend of relaxation and inspiration.


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A Day of Creativity and Repose

From the gentle rustling of leaves in the morning to the golden hues of the setting sun, at Mount Havana, every moment is designed to nurture creativity. Whether you prefer to start your day with birdsong and a cup of tea, a refreshing swim, or a quiet writing session, you get to create at your own rhythm. Here’s how we envisage a day unfolding:

Morning: Awakening Creativity


  • Birdwatching and Mindful Walks: Start the day with the melody of birds and a walk along our nature trails. Observe wildlife and let inspiration flow naturally.

  • Creativity Session 1: Enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea while journaling or sketching ideas. Settle into a peaceful veranda, garden nook, or poolside lounge to begin writing and creating.

Afternoon: Immersing in Nature or Quiet Time


  • Outdoor Time: Walk in the revering forest admiring the exotic plants and flowers, and observing the wildlife. Or enjoy a refreshing midday swim. Float in the water while gazing at the hills. Nature often provides unexpected inspiration.

  • Reflective Break and Reading Time: If stillness is what is needed, find a cozy spot under a tree to read.

  • Creativity Session 2: Focused writing and creating time.

Evening: Unwinding and Creative Reflection


  • Sunset Contemplation: Get lost in the colorful beauty of the sky as the sun sets over the hills.

  • Review: Reflect on the day’s creativity and set intentions for the next day.
Couple relaxing on sun loungers outdoors with a scenic green mountain view
 

One of the Best Creative Retreats in Sri Lanka


Writing and creating are virtually impossible amidst the bustle of everyday life. Seclusion and silence are fundamental for undisturbed thought. By offering this rare luxury, Mount Havana fosters deep work.

Mount Havana’s stunning surroundings spark creativity. The rolling hills, verdant tea estate, and picturesque views ease the mind allowing for freer thinking. The sound of birdsong and the gentle lap of the water in the pool are soothing to the soul.

Disconnecting digitally is another way to enhance creative output. It is tiresome to try to write with a phone or device constantly pinging. Regular emails and updates are extremely distracting. At Mount Havana, it is possible to step away from screens and devices and do a complete digital detox. There is a freedom and lightness that is gained from not being constantly tethered to technology.

Peak creative output is achieved when the mind is at ease and unfettered. Mount Havana provides opportunities for work and relaxation. The place is designed for both productivity and decompression, allowing for the perfect balance of effort and rest.

Freedom is another vital element for creating and writing. There are no strict timetables at Mount Havana. Schedules and routines are entirely up to the individual. With no imperative to do things at specific times, it is possible to arrange each day according to personal preferences. This is the kind of flexibility that stimulates the imagination and invigorates thought.  

Book and Start Packing!


When it feels as though inspiration has dried up or when that writer’s block is just too difficult to overcome, it is definitely time to head out to a new environment. Luckily, there’s no need to spend hours searching for a conducive place – Mount Havana is the ideal spot for a creative retreat in Sri Lanka.

Set amidst the hills of Gampola, our villa is secluded and quiet. The rooms are super comfortable, with a king-sized bed and other amenities. Each room also has a desk and chair for focused work. The private veranda attached to each room is a great spot for creating. We offer free WiFi to all our guests, making remote working an absolute breeze.

Mount Havana is truly a haven in the hills that is ideal for all writers and creators. There’s no need to think twice, simply book your stay now.

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