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Ceylon Tea Trails, Castlereagh Reservoir

Nestled in “The Golden Valley”, Ceylon Tea Trails will not only give you a new appreciation of tea, but a deep insight into the rich culture and history of Sri Lanka.

Your Tea Trail will lead you around the breath-taking scenery of Castlereagh Reservoir – set high in the central uplands of Sri Lanka – to stay at five characterful bungalows. Each bungalow has its own unique style, but all offer a taste of colonial-era luxury with plush beds, period furnishings, timbered ceilings, log fires and antique touches. Not to mention awe-inspiring views over the mountains, glistening lake and tea fields.

When you’re not drinking in the splendid vistas, you’ll find tennis courts, a croquet lawn, outdoor pools, white water rafting and scenic hiking and biking trails to enjoy. You’ll also be able to take leisurely strolls through immaculate tea gardens; watch the dexterity of tea pickers and learn all about the ancient process and history of tea-making from the resident planter.

Ceylon Tea Trails, at a glance

  • Five luxury bungalows, each with four to six rooms
  • Tientsin Bungalow, built in 1888 is a historical landmark, set 4,600 feet high in the hills with astounding views
  • One master suite, three garden suites and two luxury guestrooms
  • Norwood Bungalow, built in 1890 and rebuilt in 1950, has fantastic views over the Bogawantalawa Valley
  • One master suite, three garden suites and two luxury guestrooms. Many with four posters and elegant bathrooms
  • Castlereagh Bungalow, built in 1925 has a superb wooded setting close to the water
  • Four garden suites and one luxury guestroom
  • Summerville Bungalow, built in 1923 is set high above the lake with far-flung views
  • One master suite, three garden suites and a luxury guestroom
  • Dunkeld Bungalow, built in 1925, enjoys panoramic views of the lake and Great Western mountains
  • One standalone bungalow, one master suite, two garden suites and one luxury room
  • Relais & Chateaux property

For leisure and pleasure

  • Delicious gourmet cuisine and afternoon tea prepared using fresh, home grown ingredients
  • Mountain biking against a stunning backdrop of lakes, tea plantations and mountains 
  • Enjoy scenic walks and hikes to experience the region’s rich landscapes and exotic bird and plant life
  • Learn about the tea making process from the property’s resident tea planter, including a tour of the tea factory 
  • Stroll through glorious English rose gardens
  • Tennis court and croquet lawn
  • White water rafting adventures
  • Swimming pool
  • Garden dining
  • Excursions include Kandy, Adam’s Peak, Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains and Udawalawe National Park 
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  • Fantastic holiday, exceeded our expectations in every way. As usual, Ultimate’s attention to detail, meant that everything went smoothly, every meet and greet was spot on, which is helpful on these multi centre holidays. We were made to feel like true VIP’s by everyone who met us. Well done.

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    JR, Ecuador