Tea anyone? - a trip to Ceylon Tea Plantations, Sri Lanka

These plantations are the heart of Sri Lanka’s Tea Country. A stay at Ceylon, with the breathtaking views of mountain ranges and ravines, of winding roads and waterfalls, gives me the confidence in claiming this as the most scenic part of Sri Lanka.

It is certainly the most relaxing and peaceful, as well as interesting and personal stays at a property that I have ever experienced. Guests are completely absorbed into life on a working tea estate, whilst revelling in five-star luxury, the only description for it is absolute bliss. On arrival I was given a brief tour of the property, the stunning colonial style gardens snuggled within lush rolling hills, and the aroma of tea in the air, provided high first impressions. Collapsing into a comfortable wicker chair on my own private patio, gazing across at the stunning views, I felt overwhelmed with satisfaction, what more could I possibly want… As a cup of tea arrived on my doorstep I submitted to utter contentment.

My personal butler served the tea, along with an explanation that it was picked over on the hills opposite, and was accompanied by a platter of wonderfully delicious little sandwiches, cakes, and scones. As I sat back and sipped my glorious cuppa, I felt confident that over the next few days I was going to be very well looked after.

The property takes on a high colonial character, with a beautiful wooden dining room, a softly-lit library, and expansive gardens. Along with a swimming pool, tennis court, and croquet lawn, the agenda here oozes the luxury and comfort of an English Manor.

The itinerary I chose suited my desire for a very calm and relaxing stay. After a delicious breakfast on my patio, I set off exploring the tea trails. You can choose to head out with a tea planter as guide for an informative excursion, or amble at your own pace passing and being welcomed by the friendly pickers, who will happily stop and show you the ‘two leaves and a bud’ technique, which forms the beginning of the tea-making process. After my walk I returned for scheduled R&R time before indulging in an exquisite 4 course dinner.

The rest of my time at Ceylon Tea Trails followed a similar formula of breakfast followed by a walk through the tea plantations, lunch, rain, an afternoon massage, tea, reading in the library, dinner, sleep.

This location enforced a type of relaxation that I have been unable to obtain anywhere else on earth, it is completely unique, personal and highly comfortable making it impossible to resist the feeling of well-being and peace.