Horticultural Honeymoon

While bed-based honeymoons have their attractions, respected Sydney garden designer Richard Unsworth of Garden Life wants to lead grooms beyond the sheets to the great outdoors of Sri Lanka.

Those with green thumbs or an appreciation of open air adventures will be tempted by a tour of Sri Lanka, created by Unsworth and respected architectural and landscape photographer Nicholas Watt, taking in the work of architect Geoffrey Bawa.

"I first visited Sri Lanka in 2012 whilst sourcing for the store, and fell in love with Bawa’s gardens and buildings," Unsworth says.

From Garden Life’s sprawling store in St Peters, Unsworth has transformed some of Sydney’s most envied gardens, so his admiration for Bawa is impossible to ignore. The trip has been designed to offer immersive insights that can’t be unearthed from a coffee table book.

"Bawa is well regarded as a forefather of the tropical modernism movement – his designs were among the first to explore the seamless connection between indoors and out.

"They incorporated traditional colonial design with minimal contemporary structure. He was a trailblazer in this regard."

Having designed the striking parliamentary complex in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the country is home to many of the late architect's most influential works. The tour takes in 11 Bawa designed properties including his country retreat Lunuganga.

"His work is still very current today," Unsworth says. "It's timeless and has inspired the whole resort-style movement that exists right here in our houses today." Expect to be mentally redecorating your home for the entire eight nights.

The trip from October 1-9, 2019 is limited to 12 people, so the architecturally-minded should start planning their honeymoon or anniversary escape.

Boutique hotel accommodation, travel (excluding flights to and from Sri Lanka), meals, guides, tipping and talks are all included in the cost ($9,500 per person based on twin share).

"The private tour will appeal to anyone who loves adventure," Unsworth says. "To see great design, stunning gardens and amazing food – Sri Lanka has so much diversity, and the friendliest people."

For more details contact adventure@gardenlife.com.au

Please note: Homosexuality is currently illegal in Sri Lanka. Although gay-focused tourism is available, it is wise to avoid public displays of affection.