Stafford Bungalow
A lovingly restored planter’s residence set within a working tea estate, Stafford Bungalow offers an intimate glimpse into Sri Lanka’s past, where slow mornings, high tea rituals and sweeping hill country views define the rhythm of your stay.
Highlights
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Set on a working estate, guests can walk the tea trails, meet local pickers and gain an authentic insight into Sri Lanka’s most iconic export.
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With just a small number of rooms, the bungalow offers an exclusive, homely atmosphere, ideal for full buyouts or those seeking seclusion.
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Dating back to 1884, the property retains its original character, from antique interiors to traditional high tea rituals.
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Surrounded by misty plantations and rolling hills, it’s perfectly placed for scenic walks, cycling, and excursions to nearby highlights such as Nuwara Eliya and Horton Plains.
Hidden deep within Sri Lanka’s emerald hill country, Stafford Bungalow sits gracefully amid 50 acres of rolling tea plantations, where mist lingers over the hills and life moves at an unhurried pace. Originally built in 1884 as the private home of Scottish planters, the bungalow has been sensitively restored, blending heritage charm with understated modern comfort.
With just a handful of rooms, this is an experience defined by intimacy and warmth. Interiors echo a bygone era, polished wooden floors, antique furnishings and cozy fireplaces, while wide verandas and manicured gardens invite you to pause and soak in the scenery. Days unfold gently: strolling through tea fields, learning the art of tea tasting, or simply settling into a well-worn armchair with a book from the library.
Dining is a highlight, rooted in tradition and locality. Expect comforting Sri Lankan curries, inspired classics and the ritual of afternoon high tea, freshly baked scones served with views across the estate. With a dedicated team and butler service, every detail feels personal, creating the sense of staying in a private home rather than a hotel.
This is a place to slow down, reconnect and step into the romantic nostalgia of Ceylon’s tea heritage, perfect for couples, families or anyone seeking a quietly immersive escape.
When to visit
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Enjoy the daily high tea out the in manicured gardens overlooking the tea estate.
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Goatfell
Goatfell is a beautiful and intimate 4 bedroom bungalow retreat located in the heart of the hill country on a working tea estate. Recently opened, this is a hugely exciting addition to the Hill Country and a great base from which to explore.
Top Things to Do Nearby
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View ExperienceExplore the Tea Plantations
During your stay in the Hill Country, explore the tea plantations where you can see the tea pluckers at work, visit a tea factory, or go for a walk through the rolling green hills.
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View ExperienceTrekking in the Knuckles Range
This is a must for trekking enthusiasts, who will love the striking landscapes and ever-changing fauna on this 4-5 hour trek from Illukkumbura to Riverston. Expect sweeping panoramas and waterfalls in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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View ExperienceTemple of the Tooth
This evening you will visit The Temple of the Tooth. The stunning 17th-century Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is believed to house the left upper canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself.
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View ExperienceKandy by tuk tuk
Travel through Kandy's unique landscape of hills and rivers, exploring its colonial history and religious sites, riding a tuk tuk to scenic hills and markets, and concluding with delicious treats and Ceylon tea with breathtaking city views.
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View ExperienceKandy Market
Visit the colorful market in Kandy for textiles, as well as a lively atmosphere.
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View ExperienceThe Pekoe Trail
Embark on the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's first long-distance hike from Hanthana to Nuwara Eliya, guided by a local expert, as you traverse stunning tea plantations, iconic landmarks, and diverse landscapes.
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View ExperienceKandy Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy, is renowned for its wide variety of plant species
and beautiful flowers. Of particular note is the collection of a variety of orchids.
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View ExperienceTrain from Kandy to Hatton
The 2 hour train journey to Hatton is a glorious way to see the rolling countryside from your observation car, as you climb into the hills and tea plantations.
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View ExperienceElla City Tour
Explore Ella with your chauffeur guide. Ella is blessed with some of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular views. On this tour you will visit Ella Gap, Ravana Ella Falls, Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana Cave and Bambaragala Park.
