Ceylon Tea Trails, Hatton, Hill Country, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book

"Sri Lanka's hill country, with its lush terraced tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and mist-shrouded mountains, has some of the most awe-inspiring scenery that you'll find anywhere on the island. At 4,000 feet above sea level, Ceylon Tea Trails is a collection of five beautifully restored plantation bungalows set around the picturesque Castlereagh Lake. Originally built for British tea managers during the Raj, they now offer classic comforts with a dash of style, outstanding cuisine and excellent service without losing the sense of history, all of which has earned them Relais & Chateaux status. Each house comes with its own chef, butler and manager and up to six luxurious guest rooms, which can be booked individually or collectively. Every villa is surrounded by immaculate flowering gardens including croquet lawns and majestic trees; all have swimming pools, most have Jacuzzis, one has a tennis court. The bungalows are set 4-15km apart, linked by walking and cycling trails, and you can hike sections of The Pekoe Trail from here too. You can do as much or as little as you like from guided tours of the working Dilmah tea estate to whitewater rafting, to a boat trip on Castlereagh Reservoir or a sunrise trek to Adam's Peak. You can even enjoy a jaunt in a helicopter or a sea plane ride. After a day's activity return to a refreshing swim, afternoon high tea with scones, and a crackling log fire after a gourmet multi-course dinner. For many this unique property will be the highlight of your trip to Sri Lanka. Highs The hill country setting is both magnificent and tranquil with stunning views all around Service and attention to detail is impeccable at all five bungalows Exceptional irresistible food and a good selection of drinks (all included in the rates); great cooking classes too A wonderful base from which to walk the Pekoe Trail, and good for excursions to Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka's most sacred mountain You can also add on a few days at beachside sister resort Cape Weligama or safari retreat Wild Coast Tented Lodge Lows This level of comfort and service doesn't come cheap, but all meals and drinks, as well as laundry, are included in the daily room rate The high-in-the-hills location means bumpy roads and potentially tiring journeys but it's well worth the effort You're in a bubble of bliss here, but some may find it too much of an ivory tower" - Nadine Mellor