A contemporary take on a tea planter’s bungalow

Camellia Hills

Near

Hatton

, Sri Lanka

Overlooking the mirror-still Castlereagh Reservoir in Sri Lanka’s verdant hill country, Camellia Hills sits on a mountainside amidst emerald tea bushes and pine forests. A contemporary interpretation of a tea planter’s bungalow, the 5 luxurious bedrooms and living areas are strategically positioned to allow guests to take in the stunning panoramas while relaxing on cushy sofas warmed by an open fire, dining in the semi open air terrace, or swimming lengths in the refreshing garden pool.

Located on Dunkeld Estate in Dickoya, the bungalow can be reached via the market town of Hatton, 45 minutes away, or by landing on the reservoir via sea plane. Flanking the reservoir on either side are rising hills sporting acres of neatly manicured tea estates dotted with century-old tea factories, gushing waterfalls, colonial-era churches and colourful Hindu shrines.

Our Rating: Luxury

Property Type: Plantation

Experiences

Explore the diverse nuances of this culture-rich region characterised by Sri Lanka’s historic tea industry. The bungalow sits amidst acres of pea-green tea bushes, and the fresh mountain climate makes venturing outside a breeze.

Trails through neighbouring tea estates, patches of dense forest and to gushing waterfalls promise striking panoramas at every turn, and picnics can be arranged for enjoying in many of these stunning locations.

Glide over Castlereagh Reservoir in a fisherman’s canoe or visit the historic Warleigh Church to be transported to a different era. Day trips like white water rafting, trekking along the beautiful Horton Plains, and hiking up Adam’s Peak are also available.

Why we love this place

A combination of jaw-dropping views, spectacular landscapes and a temperate climate makes Camellia Hills a superb place to get active. The team have researched scenic trails of varying lengths and difficulties from the bungalow that navigate through tea estates, scenic paths, and roads that look down upon the mirror-still reservoir and picturesque valley.
What will you see? Apart from the blue skies and breath-taking views, you might see groups of ladies methodically plucking tea leaves in the plantations or villagers carefully balancing dried branches on their heads to take back to town as firewood.

The trails also pass little Hindu shrines and tea weighing stations where tea pluckers congregate to get their sacks of leaves weighed few times a day. In the villages, you may
suddenly find yourself surrounded by a gaggle of children, eager to say hello. Many species of birds reside in the surrounding countryside, as do goats, Sambar and Barking deer.

Our Recommendation

There are some wonderful picnic spots around the bungalow, many of which present stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and mirror-still reservoir. If you would like to enjoy a picnic, evening tea or sip sundowners whilst taking in these panoramic vistas, we’ve got the perfect viewpoint for you.

The trip to the secret viewpoint entails a short 20-minute walk along the tea-lined estate where you will pass through neatly manicured tea bushes, lush flora, and perhaps witness some beautiful birdlife along the way. The walk is a great experience for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to stretch their legs before enjoying some local snacks. As you take in the lovely, fresh air out on the walk, you’ll wind your way along the edges of Camellia Hills to the viewpoint.

At the viewpoint, a butler will be ready to spoil you with delectable food and your choice of G&Ts or beer, whilst you stare in awe at the beauty and tranquillity of the emerald-green hills and breath-taking reservoir in front of you.

Can’t find a suitable itinerary that features a destination, experience or accommodation you fancy? All our group tours and holiday ideas can be personalised, or we can create a tailor made itinerary for you.

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A contemporary take on a tea planter’s bungalow

Camellia Hills