Nine Skies

Sri Lanka’s Hill Country is a beautiful land of craggy mountains, verdant pine forests and tea-clad slopes. Clouds hang low over the ridges, the sun sparkles after the rain, and paths wind their way between little villages and old factories. Keen hikers will adore following part of the Pekoe Trail, whilst tea aficionados can enjoy informative tours and tastings on the estates of artisanal growers and large-scale producers alike. Abundant birdlife flits between the trees, and rarely-glimpsed leopards slink through the jungle overnight.

Many of Sri Lanka’s top hill country hotels are clustered in historic towns such as Nuwara Eliya — where the racecourse and golf club reflect the influence of the British planters who once lived in the area — or tranquil Hatton and Haputale. The enormous Castlereigh Reservoir is a gorgeous spot too, with mesmerising views from the terraces of boutique hotels and guesthouses. Promising a refreshing break from the heat of the coast, and an insight into Sri Lankan tea production, a trip to the Hill Country comes highly recommended!

For Laid-Back Charm

Haldummulla Estate Bungalow

  • Haldummulla Estate Bungalow is a charming green-roofed retreat on Sri Lanka's oldest organic tea estate filled with vintage finds, patterned textiles, cosy fireplaces and a laid-back vibe. A simple tea country escape with two en-suite bedrooms in the main cottage, and a further two adjoining rooms in the library suite. Host Priya's cooking is excellent. 
  • The Farm Resorts comprises contemporary chalets and bungalows facing Castlereigh Reservoir. Expect floor-to-ceiling windows, pared-back interiors and sunny balconies. Borrow bicycles, go kayaking on the reservoir, and enjoy delicious dishes crafted from garden-grown produce. 

For Boutique Indulgence

Camellia Hills

  • Camellia Hills, has just five spacious, light-filled guest rooms with contemporary-classic furnishings and impressive views towards Castlereigh Lake. An idyllic escape for honeymooners, this gorgeous house can also be booked in its entirety by a group of friends or a familly. A boutique gem close to Hatton. 
  • Thotalagala,, an 1870s-built former tea planter's bungalow, offers seven superb suites. Think opulent interiors with antique furniture, roaring fireplaces and beautiful landscaped gardens. A romantic luxury bolthole with a real sense of history. 
  • Nine Skies, another bungalow-turned-hotel, has five stunning guest rooms, plus an infinity pool, croquet lawn and gourmet cuisine. A spectacular spot with elegant contemporary interiors, marvellous views of the Demodara region, and big bathtubs for unwinding. 
  • Ceylon Tea Trails, a former tea estate, is larger, with 20 bedrooms tucked within five colonial-era bungalows. Expect big four-posters, free-standing tubs, cosy nooks & fabulous cuisine. Ideal for honeymooning couples, but also a top spot for groups of friends and families, who can book a whole house whilst still enjoying the hotel's facilities. 

For an Eco-Escape

Living Heritage Koslanda

  • Living Heritage Koslanda, set on a former rubber plantation near Haputale, prides itself on its connection to both land and heritage, using ancient building techniques to construct stone suites and shared spaces. Rewilding efforts are impressive, the garden-grown produce is delicious and there's a real sense of seclusion — especially in the tented Forest Pavilions. The infinity pool is stunning. 

For a Tea Factory Experience

Heritance Tea Factory

  • Heritance Tea Factory is unusual as it's housed within a factory rather than a former residence. Characterful spaces have big windows facing the village and tea-clad hills, plus more modern furnishings. There's a fitness centre, spa, tea tours and a small, well-curated museum detailing the building's history. The terrific high teas are not to be missed — and one of the Pekoe Trail's striking hiking routes passes just alongside. 

For Keen Golfers

The Hill Club

  • The Hill Clubonce frequented largely by English and Scottish tea, coffee and cinchona planters, is still a members' club. Step back in time in cosy, antique-filled guest rooms, play billiards, challenge friends to a game of tennis, or curl up in the library. An old-fashioned pick within easy reach of the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. 
  • The Grand Hotel is a large, colonial-era property, built as the holiday residence of the fifth Governor of Ceylon. Now transformed into a quirky hotel with traditional guest rooms, smart eateries — including a fantastic Thai restaurant — and a heated indoor pool, it's a great choice for families and groups. The high teas are exceptional, and the golf course is just across the road. 

Still Not Sure? 

10 of Sri Lanka's Top Hill Country Hotels

Thotalagala

Haputale (Haputale)

Built in 1870, this elegant tea planters' bungalow boast seven luxurious suites named for prominent players in Sri Lanka's tea industry. Opulent sitting rooms with crackling fireplaces, an imposing dining room & landscaped gardens add to the timeless sense of charm. A beautiful hill country retreat.

  • Sights nearby - Visit Dambatenne Tea Factory for an insight into the industry which made Sri Lanka - then Ceylon - famous across the world
  • Trekking - Hike up to Lipton's Seat or follow portions of the 22-part Pekoe Trail, which retraces historic tea routes
  • Romantic Break - A romantic hill country escape, with lavish suites, roaring fireplaces & romantic candlelit dinners
  • Total relaxation - Refreshing pool dips, restorative hikes & lazy afternoon teas add to the sense of relaxation
from £328 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Grand Hotel, Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya

An indulgent hotel in the heart of Nuwara Eliya. Pick this place for its long history, opulent interiors & top-notch culinary reputation. Enjoy the indoor swimming pool and spa. before sipping cocktails in the bar and feasting at one of the excellent restaurants. Afternoon teas are also terrific.

  • Families - An iconic family stay with plenty of on site activities, including a billiards room, indoor pool and gardens
  • Romantic Break - A romantic choice for well-heeled travellers looking to enjoy great food and wine
  • Great walks - Hike through Horton Plains to dramatic World’s End or climb Single Tree Hill
  • Golf - The property is adjacent to Nuwara Eliya Golf Course
from £150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Nine Skies

Demodara (Demodera Estate)

A magnificent tea planter’s bungalow, transformed into an indulgent five-bedroom boutique hotel with enchanting views over tea-clad hills. Beautifully styled rooms and suites perfectly combine colonial decor with a contemporary feel and top-notch luxuries. Divine food and garden with pool.

  • Romantic Break - With only five luxuriously appointed rooms, stupendous views and hideaway location, it's perfect for romance.
  • Great walks - Great walks close by including Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock. Speak to the hotel if you’d like a guide — or a picnic!
  • Sights nearby - Jump on a train from Demodara for a trip to Haputale or Bandarawela, some of the most spectacular train rides in the world
  • Views - Glorious, far reach views over the surrounding hill country
from £315 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Farm Resorts

Hatton (Sri Lanka)

A collection of contemporary chalets & bungalows overlooking spectacular Castlereigh Reservoir. Pared-back modern spaces have floor-to-ceiling windows, sunlit balconies & whitewashed interiors. Landscaped gardens include an organic veggie patch. Bicycles, kayaks & tea-lined trails await. Lovely.

  • Families - A popular escape for families, who will adore the large chalets with extra beds, plus the abundance of activities
  • Active Holiday - A brilliant base for a holiday of hiking, mountain biking & kayaking, or simply soaking up reservoir views
  • Great walks - Hikes in the surrounding hills come highly recommended — as does walking a portion of the acclaimed Pekoe Trail
  • Restaurant - Savour fresh, seasonal cuisine at the restaurant, which serves both Western and Sri Lankan dishes
from £252 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Saskia Walker

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