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Despite being small in size, Sri Lanka’s array of attractions are anything but limited. Its beaches are the epitome of perfection, fringed by swaying palms and charming food stalls dishing up exceptional local cuisine. For wildlife enthusiasts, the safari adventures offer close–up sightings of leopards, elephants, water buffaloes and monkeys amongst other tropical animals.
Yet, what really puts this country on the map are the famous tea plantations located in the Ceylon Tea region, also known as the Golden Valley of tea. A superb way to explore these landscapes is with a stay at Ceylon Tea Trails — the world’s first tea bungalow resort.
Located in the heart of the verdant Bogawantalawa Valley, this charming hotel is a collection of five beautifully restored tea planter residences, or ‘bungalows’, that date back to the colonial era.
Fast forward to today, the bungalows are now owned by the Fernando family, producers of leading Sri Lankan tea company Dilmah by the Resplendent Ceylon brand. Malik Fernando, the family’s eldest son, a self–proclaimed “accidental hotelier” took a leap of faith and turned down a job with McKinsey in Boston to return to the rolling green hills of his homeland. It was the allure of these historic bungalows that inspired him to reinvent them into a high–end resort that opened in 2005.
Surrounded by Castlereagh Lake, each restored residence, now a chapter in a larger narrative, offers guests a taste of colonial luxury infused with the rich heritage of Sri Lankan tea culture.
The most immersive way to grasp the sheer scale and beauty of the resort is undoubtedly by seaplane, offering sweeping views of the vast estate upon arrival. The accommodation options span 26 rooms, including the expansive master suites with dedicated living rooms to the Garden suites, which offer the seclusion of a personal garden.
Perhaps the most impressive room is the Owner’s Cottage at Dunkeld Bungalow. Overlooking the lake and fringed by greenery, this cottage is the largest room at the resort. Spanning 120 sqm, the suite boasts an expansive dining room, a cosy living area, and a master bedroom. The true gem, however, is the cottage’s wrap–around terrace, where a private infinity pool and a heated hot tub await.
Breaking away from the standard hotel protocol, the rooms at Ceylon Tea Trails don’t offer room keys — a deliberate choice to the resort’s commitment of creating a car free oasis for guests. In place of keys, the luxury here lies in the personalised attention touches and attention to detail.
Each room comes with a dedicated butler and a private chef, who are ready to respond to the slightest chime. Guests can fill their days with leisurely walks through the lush trails, sit by a crackling fireplace, or the quintessential experience for which the hotel is renowned — a traditional high tea experience. Guests will be served a selection of the finest Ceylon tea’s from the plantation, along with decadent treats that are beautifully presented on a three–tiered platter.
Travellers will quickly learn that in Sri Lanka, tea isn’t just a drink — it’s a way of life. At Ceylon Tea Trails these delicate tea leaves are infused into the local dishes to enhance each dish with flavour, — this is especially highlighted in their celebrated Tea Experience Dinner. The culinary offerings at this resort artfully blend traditional Sri Lankan flavours with contemporary British gastronomy. Mornings commence with a selection of local favourites, including hoppers paired with sambol, an array of tropical fruits, and a regional staple: buffalo curd drizzled with honey.
As the day unfolds, private chefs are ready to dish up everything from midday rice and curry feasts to elaborate four–course dinners.
The Tea Experience at Ceylon Tea Trails is nothing short of a journey back in time. The adventure begins with a guided walk through the lush tea plantations, where the vibrant green tea bushes stretch as far as the eye can see.
Visitors are accompanied by expert planters, who share their extensive knowledge of tea varieties, cultivation techniques, and the history of tea in the region. The highlight of the Tea Experience is, of course, the tasting.
Following a tour of the Norwood tea factory, visitors have the opportunity to savour the distinct notes and flavours of the estate’s best brews. A knowledgeable connoisseur guides you through the nuances of each variety, explaining the characteristics that make each one special. A traditional tiffin lunch awaits where you can enjoy a selection of local delicacies, all whilst taking in the breath–taking views from the top of the mountainous hills.
For further exploration, a private guided hike through the trails comes highly recommended to both immerse yourself in the Sri Lankan lifestyle and navigate the terrain confidently. Alternatively, you can paddle out onto the tranquil Castlereagh Lake in a kayak to take in the serene beauty of the lush, green vistas. Whether it is the tea or the crisp mountainous air, Ceylon Tea Trails is the perfect sanctuary to relax and recharge. It’s a place that truly encapsulates the essence of the Sri Lankan greeting ayubowan– wishing you a long life.
Source: https://www.abtraveller.com/on-the-move/inside-ceylon-tea-trails-sri-lankas-first-tea-resort
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