A Timeless Retreat on the Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka

The hotel although at first sight seemed a little shabby in places, turned out to be one of the best places we have ever stayed, it has a certain unique charm all its own. The staff were all incredibly friendly and attentive. The food was lovely and lots to choose from. The pools were nice, one more for families, the other quieter. Always sunbeds available. Nice low-key entertainment. We enjoyed it so much; we have booked again.

This place is a delight. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting it to be as good as it was. The staff honestly make the place, from the minute you’re there you feel so welcome. The door man (in the photo), the waiter (also in the photo) and Krishna who runs the tea picking/tasting are just absolutely beautiful humans. You must do the picking and tasting to get the full experience, it’s so worth it, you actually learn a lot and have a lot more respect for the pickers, the process and tea in general. The accommodation itself if I’m honest is a little dated and the sound proofing isn’t the best but you just look past all that with the staff, all smiles, super helpful and informative. I’m not sure who the manager is but well done you’ve got the best group of people working for you. Oh and also the secret little garden what a treasure, so well maintained and cared for, thank you for a wonderful stay

The hotel itself deserves 5 stars. From ruins it was lovingly refurbished. They took care to preserve historical equipment. If I could give it more than 5  stars I would. Why? Well we were a group of 10 from the US. One of my group was arriving late in a cab from Colombo. Not expected till about 11pm & midnight. We didn’t expect any staff to be there so late, so his wife prepared a plate of food for him, to take up to their room. He arrived around 11.30pm. To their surprise, several staff were there to give him the traditional greeting, plus they took him to the dining room & gave him a drink & dish of fresh food. I think that deserves another 2 stars!!