Perched high in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Uga Halloowella is a breathtaking new addition to the island’s boutique hotel scene. Set within a 252-acre working tea estate near Hatton, this exquisitely restored 1912 planter’s bungalow offers sweeping views of rolling tea hills and the glassy Castlereagh Reservoir. With just six suites, the property delivers an atmosphere of intimate exclusivity, perfect for couples or private family takeovers.
The estate’s colonial past is at the heart of the experience. Originally home to WWI RAF pilot Major Elton Lane, the bungalow has been sensitively reimagined by renowned Sri Lankan architect Channa Daswatte. The interiors are a masterful blend of antique elegance and contemporary comfort, think polished satinwood floors, original pinewood panelling, and vintage chandeliers alongside freestanding bathtubs, plush four-poster beds, and private verandahs.
At the heart of the property is a culinary program that celebrates Sri Lanka’s rich food heritage. Guests can savor traditional dishes like hoppers, sambols, and curries, made using fresh highland produce, or enjoy global cuisine infused with local flavors. Dining is an experience in itself, whether enjoying a wine-paired tasting menu, a garden barbecue, or taking part in a cooking masterclass led by the in-house chefs.
Uga Halloowella is also a place for reconnection with nature, wellness, and culture. Spend your mornings kayaking on the still waters of Castlereagh Reservoir, set off on guided walks through the famed Pekoe Trail, or explore the local tea factories steeped in history. For moments of pause, the spa offers treatments set against the tranquil backdrop of the surrounding hills, creating a sense of deep peace and immersion.