Discover Ceylon Tea Trails
Ceylon Tea Trails comprises of five restored historic tea planter residences, called bungalows, perched at an altitude of 1250 meters in Sri Lanka’s panoramic Ceylon tea region. The 27 rooms & suites with period furnishings, gracious butler service, and gourmet cuisine create an ambience that has made Tea Trails the gold standard for luxury in Sri Lanka. Each bungalow is unique and offers guests the non-hotel, private house ambience that is the hallmark of the award-winning Tea Trails experience. Follow the Tea Trail from one bungalow to the next, staying a night or two at each or just laze in one. This is the ideal setting for trekking and biking against the breathtaking backdrop of mountains, lakes, winding roads and waterfalls. If you prefer to unwind, observe life on a working tea estate while being pampered by your butler, enjoy a spa treatment, croquet on the lawn or sunbathe alongside the pool. Or explore the lush tea fields & visit a century old factory for a gentle education in the art of Ceylon Tea.
SUMMERVILLE BUNGALOW
High above the lake at the edge of a tea plantation, Summerville stands sentinel. This five-room bungalow enjoys magnificent views of the water and beyond to tea planted mountains in the distance. Some suites open to private gardens and all accommodations have easy access to the cozy lounge where picture windows provide a backdrop to a roaring fire as the evening mist draws in. Summerville offers individual accommodation, or the entire bungalow can be booked for a group to enjoy the very personal atmosphere of this great house.
Shuttleworth Master Suite
70 sq.m – King bed, separate living room, bath & walk in rain shower, private garden.
Garnet Garden Suite
45 sq.m – King bed, bath with rain shower, view of reservoir from private garden.
Goddard Garden Suite
47 sq.m – King bed, bath with rain shower, view of private garden.
Cosby Garden Suite
45 sq.m – King bed, bath & walk in rain shower, view of lake from private garden.
Middleton Luxury Room
38 sq.m – Twin beds, bath with rain shower, garden view.
CASTLEREAGH BUNGALOW
Travellers approaching Castlereagh from the road can glimpse tantalising views across the lake of this magnificent symbol of colonial life. Nestled in a wooded dell close to the water, this century-old bungalow offers unrivalled water views and superb garden suites to suit every taste. Elegant parquet floors all around with open fireplaces in the dining and drawing rooms, evoke recollections of the life and times of the tea planters who once lived here. In the extensive grounds, summerhouses can be found where tea is served, and a good book enjoyed until the sun goes down over the water and it’s time for sundowners on the terrace overlooking the lake.
Baker Garden Suite
45 sq.m – king bed, bath and walk-in rain shower, view of tea fields & mountains, private verandah & garden.
Alston Garden Suite
46 sq.m – king bed, bath and walk-in rain shower, view of tea fields, private verandah and garden.
Palmer Garden Suite
36 sq.m – king bed, bath and walk-in rain shower, view of tea fields and lake, private garden.
Jamieson Garden Suite
40 sq.m – king bed, bath and walk-in rain shower, view of lake & tea fields, private garden.
Tate Luxury Room
41 sq.m – twin beds, bath and walk-in rain shower, view of lake & tea fields.
DUNKELD BUNGALOW
Poised high above Castlereagh lake, the Dunkeld bungalow looks down on the verdant tea fields of Dunkeld estate and the tea factory, with spectacular views of the Great Western mountain range. The infinity-edge swimming pool offers awe-inspiring panoramic views, whilst the hot tub seemingly floats above the lake surface. The secluded ‘Owner’s Cottage’ offers a romantic one-bedroom residence hidden privately in the tea fields.
Taylor Owners Cottage
145 sq.m – standalone bungalow with lake views, heated outdoor Jacuzzi, master bedroom with king bed, living room and verandah.
Greig Master Suite
81 sq.m – king bed, separate living room, bath, walk in shower, view across lake.
Anderson Garden Suite
48 sq.m – king bed, bath, walk in shower, private verandah, garden and mountain view
Clark Garden Suite
48 sq.m – king bed, bath, walk in shower, private verandah, garden and mountain view
Allen Luxury Room
48 sq.m – twin beds, bath, walk in shower, garden and mountain view
NORWOOD BUNGALOW
The bungalow at Norwood commands a fine view of the eastern end of the Bogawantalawa valley and rests in the shelter of one of the finest bamboo stands to be found anywhere. The suites are oversized with colonial-style furniture, some with four-poster beds and very elegant bathrooms. A spacious lounge and billiard room lead out to a croquet lawn, a large swimming pool and sun deck. It is here where planters of the past invited friends to enjoy the pristine air and glorious outlook. You too can wander the gardens unchanged since yesteryear, soaking up the atmosphere of a time gone by.
Hazel Master Suite
62 sq.m – King bed, separate living room, bath and walk-in rain shower, view of private garden and tea fields.
Irvine Garden Suite
45 sq.m – King bed, bath and walk-in rain shower, view to private garden.
Andrews Garden Suite
46 sq.m – King bed, bath with rain shower, view to private garden.
Trevaldwyn Garden Suite
39 sq.m – King bed, bath and walk-in rain shower, view to private garden.
Jeffery Luxury Room
31 sq.m – King bed, bath with rain shower, garden view, direct garden access.
Wyatt Luxury Room
30 sq.m – Twin beds, bath and walk-in rain shower, garden view, direct garden access.
TIENTSIN BUNGALOW
Step back in time and into the world of Tientsin. Named after the Chinese village from which the original tea seedlings came, this very British residence is a historical landmark. Six glorious rooms and suites open onto magnificent English gardens still standing loyal to the colonial planters’ wives who created ‘a little bit of home’ in a faraway land. Wander the glorious rose terraces and hide away under a leafy arbour to the myriad sounds of the many birds that make their homes there. Each suite too is faithful to the original design with polished wooden floors and high ceilings; some with four-poster beds. A large swimming pool and raised garden offers panoramic views of the tea-carpeted mountains that lead towards the World Heritage Horton Plains National Park.
Irvine Stewart Master Suite
91 sq.m – king bed, separate living room, bath, walk in rain shower, view across valley & tea fields
Bretherton Garden Suite
45 sq.m – king bed, bath with rain shower, private verandah with garden view
Moir Garden Suite
43 sq.m – king bed, bath with rain shower, private verandah with garden view
Fraser Garden Suite
36 sq.m – king bed, bath with rain shower, private verandah with garden view
Bremer Luxury Room
44 sq.m – king bed, bath with rain shower, garden view
Meares Luxury Room
40 sq.m – twin beds, bath with hand shower, garden view
TEA TRAILS TEA EXPERIENCE
The guided tour of the Dunkeld Tea Factory is the quintessential tea experience in Sri Lanka. Our resident Tea Planter passionately delves into all aspects of tea in just the right amount of detail – from a look back to the early days of “planting” and the lifestyles of the early colonial settlers, to the manufacturing process, to how flavours are created to suit various palates – he’s got it covered. What went into creating the perfect cup of refreshing Ceylon tea in 1867 were equal parts science, art, sleight of hand, and a spot of luck. And not much has changed since! As some of the methodology and machinery are over a century old we strongly believe that Ceylon Tea itself is part of the world’s living heritage. And this is your invitation to partake in it
Duration: 1.5 hours
Time: Peak Season: (Dec-Mar): 09.30am & 11.30am, Non-peak: Start: 10.30am
Availability: Year round
Price: Included in the fully-inclusive rate
Note: The tea factory can be noisy & dusty at times.
On Sundays’ and Public Holidays there is usually no manufacture going on at the factory-however the tour will take place
Discover Ceylon Tea Trails
WALKING THE TEA “TRAILS”
Each of the five Tea Trails bungalows features an interesting and unique walking trail; all of which present stunning views. The trails snake through beautifully manicured tea gardens, tranquil patches of forest and jungle, and pass streams and mini waterfalls. Walking is a delightful way of experiencing our stunning landscapes, lush and exotic flora, abundant birdlife and the sweet rhythm of life in a tea garden. A broad spectrum of biodiversity exists in tea country — especially ours — as the plantations are interspersed with forest patches that are home to everything from endemic amphibians and birds to leopards. We recommend a guided walk in the company of a resident naturalist to get an in depth narrative, by spotting animals with their keen eye (especially the smaller critters), identifying bird calls, and interpreting tracks and signs of nocturnal animals such as leopards and smaller cat and mammals such as Fishing Cat, deer, mongoose, and primates who have traversed the trails. Our naturalists are also privy to the workings of tea plantations and can narrate day to day workings visible on the walk. A different variation (and a guest favourite) is to walk the trails from one bungalow to another for lunch or tea. Transport back to your bungalow can be arranged with prior notice.
Duration: 1–3 hours
Time: At guest discretion. We advise before breakfast is best for good weather
Availability: Year round
Trails can be walked without a guide free of charge. However, naturalists will offer a deeper, more interesting nature narrative. Trail guides are less articulate in English.
During the wet season, afternoon showers / rain can be expected so morning walks are most rewarding
There is no fixed maximum pax; more than 6 pax would not get the best experience
Naturalists will pick a suitable trail based on several factors including guest interest, difficulty of the trail, duration etc.
PRIVATE TEA TASTING
An interactive and guided experience where guests will taste multiple teas under the guidance of their expert host. During the experience, they will learn (and try for themselves) how professional tea tasters identify (and appreciate!) the unique flavour profiles that give different teas their distinction. Gain a rare and exclusive insight a century – old art form that has shaped a global industry. Compared to the complimentary “Tea Factory tour” experience that is included in the Tea Trails pricing – which is general overview of the history of tea and its product – the Private Tea Tasting is far more detailed, immersive and intimate. The experience is hosted by Bernard Holsinger. Bernard is the resident tea specialist at Tea Trails and brings with him a wealth of experience in the industry, both as a planter as well as a taster. His deep knowledge of tea is complimented with a healthy dose wit and banter.
Duration: 1 hour
Time: 03.30 pm
Availability: Year round
Note: The experience is exclusive to a single booking party/group/couple/person
We advise guests to inform their butler and confirm by afternoon the day prior to the experience.
There are no sales involved in the experience. However, if guests choose to purchase any teas, the butler will be happy to assist.
Only available at Dunkeld or Castlereagh bungalows
PLANTER’S LUNCH
In the early days of the tea industry, before motorized travel came to its assistance, tea planters conducted field inspections across a vast area of tea fields and forest, either on foot or horseback. At mid-day, they would take a break under the shade of a tree or the shelter of a makeshift hut for lunch and a rest. The “Planters’ Lunch” is a plusher, four-course version (to Relais and Chateaux standards no less!) served in tiffin boxes in a picnic setting. The location is on the hillside above Dunkeld Bungalow flanked by tea and jungle on either side, with vistas of the rolling tea fields that start from the glassy Castlereagh Lake and creep up on to jagged mountaintops. The way up to the picnic spot is via a scenic trail that commences at Dunkeld Bungalow and we recommend guests take the walk either up to the picnic spot or from lunch back down to the Bungalow. TEA INFUSED DINNER Bringing together the subtle influences of the flavours of tea (not to mention the health benefit), the Tea Infused Dinner is a signature culinary experience unique to Tea Trails. Teas grown in various areas of Sri Lanka have distinctly different flavour profiles, and each lends a different effect to types of ingredients and methods of preparation. Earl grey cured fresh salmon, Moroccan mint tea crusted lamb cutlet, and vanilla panna cotta with minted fresh fruits and hibiscus tea sauce are some examples of a menu that appeals to both the intellectual curiosity as well as the palate of any gourmet.
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Time: 12.30 pm (ideally after tea factory tour)
Availability: Ideally during dryer months (December-April), but available year round, subject to weather
Additional notes:
The experience is exclusive to a single booking party/group/couple/person
Wine and spirits of choice (within the parameters of the AI rate) are included
We advise guests to inform their butler and confirm by afternoon the day prior to the experience.
There are no restroom facilities at the lunch site, so we advise guests to freshen up prior to heading up to the spot
A vehicle will be on standby, within a 10-minute drive time
Guests may encounter some mist and light rain any time of the year in the afternoon and is an integral part of the region’s weather
If the rain is prohibitive to the experience, our team will look for an alternative location to execute the lunch,
but this may not be as remote as the watch hut
Guests are advised to dress in layers due to nuances of the weather
Guests with small children are cautioned that the hut is unfenced with a steep drop below
TEA INFUSED DINNER
Bringing together the subtle influences of the flavours of tea (not to mention the health benefit), the Tea Infused Dinner is a signature culinary experience unique to Tea Trails. Teas grown in various areas of Sri Lanka have distinctly different flavour profiles, and each lends a different effect to types of ingredients and methods of preparation. Earl grey cured fresh salmon, Moroccan mint tea crusted lamb cutlet, and vanilla panna cotta with minted fresh fruits and hibiscus tea sauce are some examples of a menu that appeals to both the intellectual curiosity as well as the palate of any gourmet.
Duration: 1–2 hours
Time and availability: At guest preference
Price: Included in the fully inclusive rate, once during the stay
Alternate locations can be considered (weather permitting)
Day prior advanced notice is required.
Possible to cater according to food preferences or dietary requirement/s
DISCOVER SRI LANKAN CUISINE
A hands-on experience with one of our amazing Tea Trails chefs. Learn the basics of Sri Lankan cooking, from the range of spices and ingredients, to techniques and recipes behind the magic of Sri Lankan cuisine. Guests are invited to get hands on with mixing spices, preparation and cooking to immerse themselves in this fun and sensory experience. An ideal prelude to a full Sri Lankan dinner option that night.
Duration: 1 hour
Availability: Year round
Time: 5 pm
Notes: Can arrange as a private experience at a preferred location (weather permitting)
TOUR OF RESEARCH STATION FOR LEOPARD & CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTABILITY
Resplendent Ceylon and Dilmah Conservation set up this station to support the work of the Wilderness and Wildlife Conservation Trust (WWCT) whose founders are pioneering research on Sri Lankan leopard. While the hill country is known better for tea plantations, pockets of forest are home to a strong population of leopards. Interestingly, there is a healthy population of leopards in the forest areas between Dunkeld and Norwood Bungalows and beyond, as seen by camera trap footage. Visitors are encouraged to visit the research station located next to Dunkeld tea factory and learn about these fascinating, elusive, threatened cats, their habits and the conservation efforts we are supporting. Guests can be accompanied by one of our resident naturalists who support the research team on the ground.
Duration: Flexible
Time: Advisable to visit after the Tea Factory Tour
Availability: Year round
Price: Free of charge
Additional notes:
The location is an active research centre, and arrange as such. Visitor access is a privilege.
No donations are required. But we will have a mechanism to fund research soon.
Guests can spend as much time as they like, based on their interest levels.
This is not a tour (nor is there a possibility) to see leopards in the wild
ADAM’S PEAK CLIMB
There is probably no mountain anywhere more famous than Sri Pada – Adam’s Peak (7362 ft/2250m) for reasons that are cultural and spiritual. It is sacred to three religions at least; to Buddhists, Muslims and Hindus. The mountain is signified by a large depression on the summit that resembles a “foot” to which all three religions draw significance. The climb takes approximately three and a half hours (the way is paved with steps) and the trail is flanked by the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary – one of Sri Lanka’s highest protected forest reserves. Views from the top are stunning, especially early morning as the warmth of dawn lights up the country in an endless vista of forests, valleys, mountains and lakes. The “season” to climb is from December to April where pilgrims begin their climb shortly after midnight in order to summit at sunrise. Year-round climbs during the day are possible, although sporadic rainy weather and mist is to be expected.
Duration: 1-hour drive to base. Min. 3.5 hour climb to summit
Time: 1 am during the season for sunrise summit. 05 am at other times of the year
Availability: Year-round, but dry season (December to April) is recommended
Additional Notes:
A Ceylon Tea Trails guide will accompany guests.
Mist, wind and rainy conditions may be prevalent during off season
We recommend a maximum of 6 guests per group with a trail guide. For larger groups we can add a trail guide
GUIDED NATURE EXCURSIONS
A collection of forest reserves and national parks in the hill country make for interesting excursions for the nature-
lover. Horton Plains National Park comprises of montane grassland and cloud forest, and is home to many endemic
species of both flora and fauna. While a healthy population of leopards consider Horton Plains home, they are rarely
seen in the daytime. However, a fascinating landscape, birds, primates, and smaller critters make Horton Plains a
must-visit destination. The views from the “World’s End” cliff are stunning on a clear day as well.
Hakgala Botanical Gardens– first established in 1861 –is home to over 10,000 species of trees and plants. It also
plays a key role in the classic folk tale the Ramayana. Galway’s-land National Park is a small forest reserve in the
town of Nuwara Eliya and is considered by birders (along with the adjacent Victoria Park) and a key birding site in Sri
Lanka as over 30 native species are recorded to be resident here. Kitulgala (also known as Makandawa Forest
Reserve) is a tropical rainforest and is considered a birder’s paradise too.
Excursions to each of these forest reserves are in the company of one of our experienced resident naturalists.
Drive to the location and Duration:
Horton Plains–2.5 hour driven to the location, duration-09 hours
Kithulgala–1.5-hour drive to the location, duration–07 hours
Peak Wilderness area in Maskeliya –1-hour drive to the location, duration–05 hours
Departure Time:
Horton Plains–04 am
Kithulgala–05.30 am
Peak Wilderness area in Maskeliya–06.00 am
Availability: Year-round, but dry season (December-April) is recommended.
Additional notes:
Afternoon showers / rain are common during May to September
HERITAGE CITY EXCURSIONS
KANDY
The UNESCO World Heritage listed “Sacred City of Kandy” is the second largest city in Sri Lanka and is steeped in political, cultural and religious history and indeed, played a central role in the tea plantation industry once tea production took sway in Ceylon (as Sri Lanka was previously known) in the latter part of the 19th century. The Kingdom of Kandy was established in the 14th century, becoming the country’s capital city in the 16th century. Kandy is particularly famous for being home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Commonly known as the Dalada Maligawa, the temple is believed to house the left canine tooth retrieved from the Buddha’s funeral pyre. It is regarded as a symbolic representation of the living Buddha. Worshipping at the temple is believed to improve one’s karma immeasurably and the shrine receives a constant f low of worshippers and tourists alike. The day trip to Kandy is in the company of a Tea Trails resident naturalist and first stop is the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. A picnic lunch in the gardens ensues followed by a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Guests also have the option of making part of the commute by train, and the train ride is one of the most scenic as it winds its way along lush green mountains with vistas across valleys below.
Drive to the location and duration: 2.5-hour drive, duration–08 hours
Time: 08 am
Availability: Year round
Additional notes:
Modest, respectful attire is required to enter the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Afternoon showers are common during May to September
Naturalist will advise the best location to visit based on guest interest (e.g. Udawatta Kaley, etc)
NUWARA ELIYA
Nuwara Eliya, 48 km from Tea Trails, was first conceived as a health resort- a ‘hill station’ in British colonial jargon – about 1825. After Nuwara Eliya was ‘discovered’ by a British hunting party in 1819, Sir Samuel Baker, the well-known explorer, fell under its spell in 1846 and planning to make it his home, imported to Nuwara Eliya all the appointments of an English country town, including a bailiff, Hereford and Durham cows, and even a blacksmith and a forge. Nuwara Eliya is where old-world English colonial influence meets an evolving city striving to define a new identity, with old symbols of British Heritage standing strong. One of these is the “Hill Club”–a castle-like private resort that was once a bastion of leisure and lifestyle or the elite. Visitors are welcome for a brief tour and a spot of tea on the lawn. We also visit the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, a century-old 18-hole championship golf course in the heart of the town. Contrary to the typical golf club, this clubhouse is quaint and charming and welcomes visitors. A G&T overlooking the 18th fairway is a must. If the weather is misty, the cosy bar is lined with old pictures and tournament winner’s boards spanning a century– quietly boasting a proud heritage while hosting visitors for a wee dram by the fireplace. Other sites we visit include the old racecourse, Lake Gregory, the Hakgala Botanical Gardens and the lively commotion of the Nuwara Eliya Market. The day trip to Nuwara Eliya is in the company of a Tea Trails resident naturalist who is well versed in the significance and detail of key points of interests. Guests also have the option to do part of the excursion by train, which we recommended for some beautiful views and scenery.
Drive to the location and duration: 2-hour drive, duration–07 hours
Time: 08 am
Availability: Year round
Additional notes:
Afternoon showers are common during May to September
KAYAKING ON CASTLEREAGH LAKE
Enjoy magnificent views of tea-carpeted mountains as you paddle along the Castlereagh lake in hi-spec kayaks. Mornings are the most beautiful as the weather is often fairer and the sun breaks through to gleam over the glassy water and the foreboding mountains surrounding the lake emerge from the thinning mist. Kayaking is done in the company of one our resident trail guides who will provide safety instructions as well. All our kayaks are two-person kayaks which also make for an ideal activity for couples or families.
Duration: 0.5 hours–01 hour
Time: At guest discretion
Availability: Year round
Additional notes:
Safety is a priority-children under 12 years will not be allowed. Also anyone intoxicated will not be allowed
Instructions of your guide must be followed
Experience may be cancelled at short notice due to weather
BIKING FOLLOWED BY PICNIC LUNCH
A great way to enjoy a sunny day while working up an appetite for a sumptuous picnic lunch! In the company of our trail guide, cycle through the tea plantations, forests and quaint villages that make our trails distinct (not to mention gorgeous views to take in during a breather!). Then treat yourself to the delights of our Relais & Chateaux kitchen! You would be guided by a member of our Trail Guide team who will be brief on safety and help you navigate the other bungalow.
Duration: Half-day
Time: At guest discretion (Morning hours recommended)
Availability: Year round, subject to weather
Additional Notes:
Safety is a priority – children under 12 are not advised due to the size of the bikes and the nature of the terrain. Anyone intoxicated will also not be allowed
Instructions of your guide must be followed
Experience may be cancelled at short notice due to weather
BIKING
Ceylon Tea Trails has opened up a world of adventure and discovery in the Bogawantalawa Valley at an altitude of over 1500 meters. The unspoiled beauty of the surrounding valleys and hills are a great biking experience. For adrenaline seekers of different levels of ability, we have mountain bikes in the bungalows for your use. For short distance rides you can go on your own but for longer rides, we recommend that you take one of our guides along. Children below 16 years are required to take a guide on any ride. Transport back to your bungalow from other bungalows can be arranged with prior notice. You can also arrange to have lunch or high tea in another bungalow. Please make a request to your Butler at your bungalow before you depart.
Duration: At guest discretion (half a day to a full day)
Time: At guest discretion (Morning hours are recommended)
Availability: Year round
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