Ceylon Tea Trails - Relais and Chateaux - All Inclusive

Our trip to Ceylon Tea Trails, especially our bungalow Tientsin, left a huge mark on my soul. It was one of the best journeys of my life. I could speak endlessly about the beauty of nature, the uniqueness of the place, the service, the food and the variety of activities. Everything feels truly effortless, though few will understand how much work, dedication and precision stand behind it. Tientsin never feels like a hotel. It feels like a home: warm, caring and attentive, yet completely free and relaxed. Guests can also visit other Bungalows for lunch or activities, experience the atmosphere of each house and enjoy different surroundings and the warmth of the staff. Our stay was very varied. We walked through the tea plantations, both independently and with a guide, enjoying the views and the kindness of local people. I have rarely, if ever, met so many kind, cheerful and warm people. Special thanks to our guide Danushka. We walked 14 km through the plantations with him easily and learned so much. I also want to thank Wasantha and Danushka for the excellent walking routes and navigation signs. Every detail is clear and thoughtful, and it is obvious how much work went into them. We also kayaked on the lake with Wasantha, who was incredibly kind and attentive, accompanied us throughout and took wonderful photos. I would also like to thank Mr. Priya, the amazing chef Akila, our wonderful driver Nishantha, as well as Robert, Prathap and Aruna. They all made our stay unforgettable. There were many others whose names I unfortunately cannot remember, but there was not a single moment we did not enjoy. A very special thank you to the wonderful Mr. Nirosh. With him, I felt not only in the care of a true professional, but also a kind friend. We talked a lot, he shared interesting information, and his combination of professional precision and genuine warmth is truly rare. I will miss this wonderful place and these lovely people very much, and I dream of returning again.

Could not imagine a tiniest thing

Honestly, this place is astonishing. Kind caring people, amazing food, wonderful location and just a really magical and special place. I cannot recommend it enough if you are looking for some peace and quiet and a chance to explore the higher regions of Sri Lanka.

Nothing apart from the rain but that's not the fault of Ceylon Tea Trails.

We stayed at Castlereagh Bungalow, which we thought was probably the nicest / cutest of the few we saw. The view of the lake was magnificent and the property was well decorated and set up. The rooms were spacious and with nice views (either garden with a terrace, or lake but no terrace). Food was good quality and it was nice that there were no set meal times, we could have them whenever we wanted. We also liked the intimate atmosphere of the bungalow, with only a few guests at a time. We did the complimentary Tea Factory tour which was very interesting. There are a few more optional experiences. In general, enjoyed our stay at Tea Trails, it was very relaxing.

The main thing we didn’t like was that at every meal, we got asked several times if we wanted more food or drinks, even after politely saying no and explaining we are full. Maybe it’s a cultural thing which we are not accustomed to, but it felt uncomfortably pushy and we didn’t experience this at other properties we stayed at in Sri Lanka. Also our food preferences were gotten wrong a few times; this would be more understandable at a big and busy place, but there were only a few guests at a time here.

The setting is amazing amongst the tea fields! Views from the bungalows are stunning. Staff and food are outstanding.

Nothing

Beautifully furnished, loved our private garden, food was amazing.

Nothing I didn't like!

Our stay at Ceylon Tea Trails was nothing short of exceptional and, without a doubt, the highlight of our Sri Lanka journey. The property itself is stunning, the views are breathtaking, and the experience is truly unique. However, what sets Tea Trails apart is not the beautiful bungalows or the spectacular tea estates – it is the people. From the moment we arrived until the day we departed, we were treated with a level of hospitality that is becoming increasingly rare in today's world. Every member of the team, from our butler to the waiters and the chef, displayed genuine warmth, professionalism and pride in what they do. What impressed us most was the attitude of the team. No request was ever too much trouble. Every dietary requirement, preference and special request was accommodated with patience, grace and class. The chef consistently went above and beyond to tailor meals to our requirements, while the service team ensured every dining experience felt personal and memorable. Our butler anticipated our needs before we even had to ask, and the entire team made us feel less like hotel guests and more like welcomed friends in a beautiful home. Yet despite the warmth and familiarity, the standards remained those of a world-class luxury property. The experience struck the perfect balance between homely comfort and refined Relais & Châteaux elegance. Many hotels offer luxury. Very few offer genuine hospitality. Tea Trails delivers both in abundance. A heartfelt thank you to the entire team for creating memories that will remain with us for many years to come. We look forward to returning.

We stayed in Summerville Bungalow, but they took us to all of the others (had some drinks, lunch - treated like VIP guests!). Our private host, Sanjay, was wonderful. He honestly couldn’t do enough to make our stay extra special. They provide 4 meals a day and the food is excellent. The Chef will tell you what he’s preparing but will also do anything you want. We ate far too much! Free laundry, excellent house staff, absolutely beautiful place. Also met Manager Manthika at one of the other bungalows. He let us spend the afternoon in one of the special rooms and made a romantic fireplace while we enjoyed some drinks. Can’t wait to return! Also we had some date changes because of work and they were very helpful and understanding. No hidden charges! Honestly like a home away from home, but better!

It’s not their fault, but Lily hated the leeches! They’re only small, and I swear we only saw 3 (but they were all on her!). They are only small and the hotel provides leeches socks, which Lily wasn’t wearing, so…!

Magical honeymoon destination nestled in the heart of the tea fields. Amazing staff at Dunkeld gave us the best experience possible. They were so hospitable, genuinely friendly, and went the extra mile. The room was beautiful ( and we were kindly upgraded to the garden suite!), and the grounds and infinity pool were stunning. The food was incredible- they even gave us a packed lunch for our last day travels! The trips for afternoon tea and lunch to neighbouring bungalows was very special too. I can’t thank the team enough.

We spent two wonderful days at this beautiful retreat and truly enjoyed every moment. The colonial-style cottage was charming, comfortable, and full of character. What made the stay special, however, was the warmth and hospitality of the entire team. Everyone was genuinely caring, humble, and always ready to help with a smile. The peaceful surroundings, relaxing atmosphere, excellent food, and the attention to every small detail made this a memorable experience for our family. Thank you to the entire team for making us feel so welcome and well looked after. This is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. A truly special retreat and definitely a place everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

A truly unique experience and one of the highlights of our Sri Lanka trip. The scenery around the tea estates is breathtaking, with endless views of rolling hills, lakes, and plantations. The historic bungalow is beautifully preserved and full of character, while service is exceptional and highly personalized. Meals were excellent and the all-inclusive format made it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The guided walks, tea experiences, and peaceful atmosphere create a sense of stepping back in time. Highly recommended for anyone seeking something special and distinctly Sri Lankan. Pros -food was spectacular - tailored set menus, delicious scones with tea, mouth watering steak and paired with drinks (house gin cocktail recommended) -staff went above and beyond - helping with kids, luggage , extra attentive ! Thank you for the Summerville team -Views - green, calming , particularly listening to nature late in the evening over dinner Cons -far to get to with small kids, a bit limited in terms of activities with small kids (no nanny services available) -Leaches given rainy weather

Weather and location is excellent

Amazing!!! We spent two nights here and loved every minute of it. All the food is fantastic and the service is second to none. We really enjoyed the tea experience and the fishing! Rooms are brilliant, we can’t wait to come here again.

Outstanding scenery, service and food - we ended up extending our stay within 10 minutes of being there. Every detail you could think of was included. Krishna, our butler, was exceptional. We hope we get back to Ceylon Tea Trails some day!

Spent three fabulous days at Castlereagh Bungalow, Ceylon Tea Trails. Special thanks to Krishna, Nesa, Janaka and Chandra who looked after us impeccably well, nothing was too much trouble for any of them. We were also treated to the most fantastic cuisine. Both Rangana and Kavindu are extremely talented chefs. We enjoyed a five mile hike with Wasantha who was so caring and, moreover, very knowledgeable about the tea production process and the nature of the environment. Thanks to all of you for an incredible stay. We shall be recommending Castlereagh Bungalow to our friends.

We stayed at Castlereagh as part of our honeymoon and it really was a special few days. The views are as good as anything we’ve seen — the kind that genuinely don’t get old over the course of a stay. The staff were excellent, Nesa, Janaka, Krishna and Chandra and everyone at the Castlereagh bungalow. Attentive, warm, and well-organised, everything was impeccable. The food was consistently brilliant throughout, and the curry was quite simply the best either of us has ever had. We left very glad we’d chosen it, and it’s somewhere we’ll talk about for a long time

Best hotel we’ve been to, and we have travelled a lot in our time. The property, the nature and care you get are amazing. Most importantly, the staff is the best - thank you Nilantha, Danuska, Samantha (chef), Nesa and Chimaka for making our stau extraodrinary. Nothing to complain about or improve.

We stayed in the Dunkeld Bungalow. Arrival was a little haphazard, but significantly faster to take the boat across the lake than to drive around it. Our welcome was so warm and effusive. In summary it is like being in your own home, but with a team of staff to look after your every wish. Dunkeld only has four bedrooms and a separate bungalow just above it. There is plenty of space for everyone to find their spot but equally it provides a very comfortable environment for guests to mingle. The bungalows chef was exceptional. Every meal was delicious enjoyed on the veranda. Afternoon tea was on offer daily, you really don’t need it. The tea, from the plantation you are surrounded by is the best tea we have ever drunk. Our room was large and comfortable. Staying in one of the bungalows allows you to visit the other bungalows for lunch, we visited Tientsin, well worth the trip. If you are in Sri Lanka, a stay in one of the 5 bungalows is well worth the trip. We would be back in a heartbeat. Staff were amazing, nothing was an issue, just wanting to make your stay the best experience you have ever had! The bungalow is all inclusive, and that includes laundry and a very impressive spirits tray pre and post dinner. The Ceylon Tea Trails has recently been awarded 3 Michelin Keys for “an extraordinary world class stay”, and it was.! If you are visiting Sri Lanka then this is the first location to book. It sets a new high standard world wide, it’s that good.

My husband and I stayed at the Dunkeld Bungalow for 2 nights but wish we could have stayed longer. We were so well looked after by the staff with a special mention of Nesa and Chanika. Our room and the surroundings were so eloquent and steeped in history. The infinity pool was my favourite destination for a swim before we had breakfast on the veranda. We enjoyed walks along the trails as the tea pickers went about their day. A very special place to visit.

Extraordinary. Our stay at the Summerville Bungalow was like a serene paradise in the cool hill country. We decided on the Summerville Bungalow given its proximity to Castlereagh Reservoir (having arrived via seaplane) and beautiful lake view. Service was warm and personal, all thanks to our butler Kasun and team, who made sure that all our needs were met during our stay. Without a doubt, Tea Trails is worth every single penny and deserving of all its accolades.

Lokalita krásná , výhled a do jisté míry i služby

Během pobytu došlo ke krádeži na našem pokoji nejspíš personálem kdy se to zametlo a moc neřešilo. Manager Clement odvedl špatnou práci…Smutné na tom je to, že nam odmítli vydat jakékoliv písemné prohlášení a take odmítli jakoukoliv kompenzaci . Prý si máme vše zamykat do tresoru i kosmetiku !!! Hnus ! Už nikdy vice ! Be carefull in this hotel!

The ambiance is captivating, enhanced by the exceptional assistance provided by the staff. The culinary offerings were delectable, and the overall experience was impeccable. The 24-hour support from Nilantha and his team, the tranquility, and the expertise in tea processing made it an ideal stay with our children.

Just a little peaceful paradise. The food was amazing as was the service from Aruna and Priya.

Nothing

We visited Sri Lanka for our honeymoon and Ceylon Tea Trails was one of the highlights of the entire trip. Nothing prepared us for just how extraordinary this experience would be. From the moment we arrived, the welcome was unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. Staff helped us onto a boat to reach our bungalow, gliding through the breathtaking view on the water and set the tone for everything that followed. The bungalow itself transported us completely. It’s not just a hotel room; beautifully preserved and furnished, it somehow managed make it feel both like a grand estate and your own private sanctuary at the same time. It was charming, spacious, and felt like home away from home. What really set Ceylon Tea Trails apart was the service. The staff at our bungalow were extraordinary — warm, always smiling, and incredibly responsive. They catered to everything we could have possibly wanted and more. There was genuine care in how they provided support during our stay. Our guide Keith was a highlight. Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuinely fun to spend time with, he provided an exceptional tea factory tour, which left us with lots of knowledge. He also helped lead us on a private Tiffin lunch hike to a beautiful location, where we enjoyed a picnic with a view. We also took part in a walking excursion before breakfast. We navigated through the trail with a guide who helped identify animal footprints, birds, plants, and a variety of wildlife. We saw much more than we expected and enjoyed it. The food deserves its own mention. Plentiful, delicious, and always thoughtfully prepared around what we wanted. You will absolutely not go hungry. We also loved the afternoon tea, which was absolutely lovely. Ceylon Tea Trails is one of those rare places that exceeds every expectation. If you are visiting Sri Lanka, especially for a honeymoon or a special occasion, we recommend this stay!

Everything, it was exceptional in every way. Service was impeccable. Tranquil, stunning outlook, lots of birds and wildlife.

Nothing.

We stayed across 2 bungalows (personal bias was towards Dunkeld for its exceptional butler service and overall aesthetic and views). However at an overall level we loved the customised food solutions we got post discussion with the chefs and the laid back experience with a great selection of curated experience (highly recommend the unique bungalow treks - make sure to ask for a map from your butler)

We stayed at the Dunkeld bungalow which has an amazing view. The service was absolutely stellar and the food was amazing. I loved the fact that you could visit the other bungalows for high tea and also the tour of the tea factory was great. The gardens and pool area were beautiful. The trip to the bungalow by boat was also very enjoyable. We really enjoyed our stay.

Service, quality of food

We stayed at Ceylon Tea Trails (Castlereagh Bungalow) as part of our wedding anniversary trip through Sri Lanka, and it was without question the highlight of our journey. From the moment we arrived, we understood why Ceylon Tea Trails holds a Three-Key Michelin distinction — this is hospitality at its finest. The bungalow itself is breathtaking. Set right on the edge of Castlereagh Lake with its pretty peachy-pink facade, English gardens, and two summerhouses, it feels like stepping into another era. Waking up to mist rolling across the lake with the mountains beyond is something we will never forget. But what truly sets Castlereagh apart is the people. Clement, the operations manager, ensured every detail of our stay was flawless from the very first communication. His attention to detail and genuine warmth made us feel like the most important guests in the world. Jannaka, the bungalow manager, runs the house with quiet brilliance — nothing is too much trouble, and he has an incredible ability to anticipate what you need before you even ask. And then there is Ajith, our butler, who made every moment feel effortless and special. From perfectly timed morning bed tea to pre-dinner cocktails mixed exactly to our taste, Ajith looked after us with such genuine care and pride that it felt less like staying at a hotel and more like being welcomed into someone’s home. The all-inclusive experience is exceptional. Our personal chef prepared the most beautiful meals, a gourmet lunch on the veranda overlooking the lake, afternoon cream tea on the lawn with freshly baked scones, and a four-course dinner that rivalled anything we have had at fine dining restaurants. All of this included, along with wines, spirits, and cocktails. The Dunkeld Tea Factory tour was fascinating, and walking through the tea plantations surrounding the bungalow in the cool highland air was one of the most peaceful experiences of our lives. Ceylon Tea Trails is a truly rare place. A property where the setting, the heritage, the food, and above all the people come together to create something unforgettable. We are already planning our return. Thank you Clement, Jannaka, and Ajith for making our anniversary so special.

Wow. This is a must for any Sri Lankan itinerary. A truly beautiful and peaceful place to stay. We were so well taken care of from the welcome to our departure. Our room was really lovely, food exceptional and the overall comfort and atmosphere splendid. We were so relaxed and refreshed by the time we left. We will return

Lovely relaxing interlude, in the middle of our Sri Lankan trip. Would definitely come back, if we return.

We booked this hotel for our extended honeymoon and hoped it would live up to our already high expectations. We have travelled a fair bit and this was one of the most extraordinary places you could wish for. Checking in and having a delicious afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking Castlereagh Lake was a cocoon from the realities of the outside world There is so much to do around the Bungalows & beyond, magnificent walks (good to burn off some calories). Meanwhile somehow fitting in all the delicious meals. The main man Nessa was so helpful and kind we both had a tear or two on leaving. His team were legendary (Kumara, Kesawan & Prassna) as were the cocktails! When chef Gayan came to describe every meal I had to adapt from asking if it was ok to have something off the menu to realising you could have absolutely anything you wanted! We stayed for 5 days and had the most memorable time. Our high expectations were well and truly exceeded. Already planning when we can come back. Nessa we have you on speed dial !

Best hotel I have ever stayed in. Beautiful accommodation, food absolutely outstanding, location unbelievable. Gardens just wonderful. Like stepping back in time with old school courtesy and yet it was so friendly and welcoming. Loved how you could visit the other accommodation for lunch or afternoon tea. Relaxed atmosphere and they couldn’t do enough for you.

We stayed at Norwood Bungalow. Beautiful outlook, garden and colonial feel. Our room was very comfortable, spacious and nicely decorated. We were very well looked after by our butler Singh and his staff who made our stay a great experience. They were bright cheery and professional . Nothing was ever too much trouble to assist. Could not fault them! Compliments to the chef , the food was excellent and made our experience more special. We also visited some of the other properties and did the tea factory tour with Bernard, who shared his great knowledge of the various facets of tea. Very informative. Thank you to all the staff who spoilt us with their wonderful hospitality!

Nothing, wish we had stayed longer.

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Norwood Bungalow at Ceylon Tea Trails – without doubt one of the highlights of our trip to Sri Lanka. The setting is breathtaking, surrounded by rolling tea plantations with a real sense of peace and space. The bungalow itself is beautiful and full of character. We loved having breakfast overlooking the gorgeous gardens and at the other end of the day, enjoying a G&T (or two!) in front of a roaring fire in the cosy living room. Our suite itself, Hazel, was superb – incredibly spacious, luxurious and very comfortable, with its own private garden which made it feel even more special. Initially we were slightly wary about not being given keys to lock the doors, but this quickly felt entirely natural and really added to the sense that you are staying as a guest in a private colonial home rather than a hotel. The dining experience was exceptional. The chefs created bespoke menus tailored to our preferences, and every meal felt thoughtful, varied and of a very high standard. It’s rare to have such a personalised culinary experience and it really elevated the stay. It was just a shame that we didn’t have bigger appetites as the food was so delicious! Service was equally outstanding. Butler Singh in particular was a real standout – warm, attentive and effortlessly professional. He anticipated everything we might need and made the whole experience feel seamless and relaxed. The rest of the team were equally friendly and keen to please - top marks to whoever is responsible for training. One experience I would strongly recommend is tackling a section of the Pekoe Trail. I completed a walk of just over 13km – it’s certainly a bit of a challenge, but absolutely worth it. The scenery is stunning throughout, with incredible views across the tea estates. My guide, Anoj, was fantastic – incredibly knowledgeable about the local fauna and flora, with a degree in natural sciences, and a real credit to the organisation. We’d love to return on a future trip to Sri Lanka as three night really weren’t enough!

These bungalows are very special and we chose Castlereagh. The views out over the reservoir and tea estates are amazing. It is a very peaceful and relaxing place to spend time. Each room has its own garden and there is so much space around each bungalow that you never feel you are bumping into other guests. The food is wonderful and the chef will make whatever you want. All the meals were excellent. Our room itself was very comfortable and had everything we needed. The staff cannot do enough for you.

We had an absolutely incredible time at Ceylon Tea trails, spending two nights each at the Norwood and Tiensten bungalows. They aim to make you feel at home and they succeed. Small number of rooms (4-6) so very cozy and relaxed. Every aspect of our visit was spectacular. The rooms were spacious with every amenity while the common areas were very inviting and comfortable. The food was incredible with the chef walking through the dinner menu every night and tailoring each meal to everyone's specifications. Norwood was a bit larger with great views of the surrounding hills and valleys while the gardens at Tiensten were magnificent. The only drawback we had at Tiensten was that one side of the property borders a road so there was some noise from tuk tuks and trucks but only on the bedrooms on that side.

Absolutely amazing place with fantastic food and service. Should have stayed longer as 2 nights was not long enough.

wonderful, discreet and relaxed atmosphere. Excellend service, fantastic location. great taste in everything. Spacious rooms, nice and supportive people, interesting experience. Real priviledge to be there

Beautiful property with incredible attentive staff. A very special place with stunning gardens and pools and views. Prebook your favourite bungalow ahead of time as they book up quickly.

Everything was perfect, it is just to note that some of the bungalows are 45 mins away from each other so plan for that. They do have buses, boats and planes to take you to where you need to be.

Simply magical. Stayed at Norwood for three nights, it was a wonderful experience. Incredible setting high up in the valley overlooking tea plantations. Service was exceptional throughout. Food superb, large double room was very comfortable. Recommend a long hike through the plantations which is a great experience and small insight into the history of the area and lives of the plantation workers.

Absolutely amazing place, located in the middle of tea plantations region. We stayed at Summerville bungalow. There are four more bungalows, but they aren’t located at one venue, but spread out around the water artificial lake. The hotel is a boutique style hotel, previously being a home of tea plantations owner. Summerville is very quiet place with great panoramic views. Morning breakfast and evening dinner are located on the shadowed veranda. Pre-dinner drinks can either be consumed on the veranda or just next door at elegant couches in the bar. The chef comes every day to agree upon personalized dinner options, he can prepare. Service is professional and we specifically enjoyed moments when Nesa was responsible for our table. If you are in Sri Lanka and would like to feel like in XIX century, but with all benefits of XXI century, come to Ceylon Tea Trials bungalows.

From the moment you arrive at Ceylon Tea Trails, you can tell it’s sure to be an experience like no other. We stayed at Tientsin bungalow and it was perfect! The staff was so attentive and took great care to attend to our every need. I have never experienced service that was this exceptional. Every person at the bungalow was so thoughtful starting from the head butler Dasun on down. The grounds this bungalow are located on are beautiful with amazing gardens and stunning views of the surrounding hills. You truly feel like you are at a secluded retreat like no other. We loved that it was all inclusive and the traditional Sri Lankan curry breakfast was the best we had all trip. I highly recommend staying here! It will be magical and memorable!

Absolutely stunning tea plantation , walking into a luxury bungalow with your own chef and friendly team. Nothing is too much trouble for this professional and warm team ! The chef is amazing every meal is prepared to perfection so delicious you want to try everything he cooks . I would recommend this not highly enough if you visit Sri Lankan make this A MUST. We will return with our family . Thankyou so much

Thoroughly enjoyed the stay. Originally two family were in one bungalow however there were a water leaking in one of our two rooms, So we have no choice but to anther one by the lakeside called Summerville. The staff handled this issue in a very professional manner. Within 1 hour we checked in to Summerville which is a ver nice and indeed offers a home feel. All the staff are very friendly and rooms are very spacious and functional. The food there was delicious. In order to show a good will and gesture , their GM greeted and welcomed us. They even organised a boat trip to circle around the lake which we thoroughly enjoyed and pass a nice tea selection as a souvenir Overall it is a really good experience and we wish that we could have stayed a little longer

We stayed for 3 nights at lovely Summerville. Our stay could not have been more enjoyable! We loved everything about it, from the great high tea on our arrival, the high quality food throughout our stay and the great activities such as kayaking on the lake. The room was very comfortable and we loved to have a pot of tea in our own garden early morning, just a ring away using the bell in your room, watching the beautiful birds. We would recommend hiking the Pekoe Trail (we did stage 8), it is quite intense with 16km and up and downhill but really worthwhile. The best part of our stay was the lovely team running Summerville so a special thanks to Chef Gayan, Kesavan, Kasun and Nesa! We hope to be back soon, quite easy when using the sea plane landing right in front of the house…

We stayed in the owners cottage at Dunkeld Quintessential British opulence. Stunning view. It’s a foodie paradise. It never stops It’s like being a house guest in the era of service. It’s like being part of the series “Indian summers”! Doesn’t matter where you stay. You can eat or swim in any of the bungalows. Definitely take advantage if this Chef ravi in Dunkeld is outstanding- perfectly cooked everytime.. His western food is worth a mention. Who knew chicken gravy could be that good! . As is his Sri Lankan cuisine. Infact the food was flawless. The inclusive wine selection is good. Occasionally not always available. They will offer an alternative! Some butlers are better than others! . No pool bag. This world be a nice touch. Little things like bath salts. They offer this from the mobile spa as an extra. But this really should be something that’s complimentary by your bath. On that note. You might not be a bath user. But there’s something about the twin tub in the owners bungalow that draws you in! Straight from the hot tub by the bathroom door . Followed by a gin and tonic from your complimentary bar (note not a mini bar!!) infront of the fire! Just a few things to note- Lots of steps to owners bungalow if you struggle to walk No room scent . They did light oils upon request. Mattress topper would be nice on the bed Enough glasses one day but not the next in our bar Would definitely recommend. Use the seaplane rather than drive-it’s a very long way to anywhere after here! Remember to pack a jumper/jacket. It’s cold at night! Infact take your cashmere and a blazer!

Once again this has been a magical trip. The care given by the staff at Dunkeld is second to none but at the same time unfussy. Everything happens just as you would want it to but without the need to ask. The setting is magnificent, the food absolutely fabulous. Chef will make suggestions but if you prefer something else he will make it for you. Planters tiffin lunch and barbecues are highlights but also simply sitting and drinking in the view. It is our serene space

On our three week holiday touring Sri Lanka we factored in a stay for two nights at Ceylon Tea Trails after seeing it featured in Amazing Hotels: Beyond The Lobby and were not disappointed. We didn’t realise when we arrived at Norwood Bungalow that we would be taken by boat to Castlereigh Bungalow which only has 5 double rooms. On arrival we were given a very warm welcome and shown to our lovely room overlooking the garden before we were served afternoon tea on the terrace. The Chef came and discussed what we would like for dinner. It was so nice to sit in the lounge and have pre-dinner drinks and canapés with 1930’s music playing in such a lovely colonial setting. Dinner was served on the terrace. After breakfast we walked to the Dilmah Fsctory and were given a tour around and tea tasting. To be surrounded by Dilmah tea plantations and have the history explained was a delight. We have such happy memories of our stay and was one of the highlights of our holiday in Sri Lanka.

My wife and I would like to express our 100% satisfaction and delight with our stay at the Ceylon Tea Trails. From the moment of our arrival, we were overjoyed by the welcome, by the courtesy and professionalism of the staff looking after us and by the standard and comfort of the Bungalow(s). We lunched at both Dunkeld and Somerville Bungalows which were both extraordinary welcoming and professional in service and of course the food was excellent. We also visited Castlereigh Bumgalow which also was a delight. Transfers between each Bungalow and to the TeaFactory were also provided by care and efficiency. The Tea Factory tour was exceptionally informative and interesting. We enjoyed a boat ride around the Resevoir and while doing so, magically witnessed the sea plane landing. To my delight I managed to capture the landing on video Summing up, we extend our gratitude to the full team who worked seamlessly together, united across all the Bungalows we visited to make our stay the best experience ever.

World-class facility and the best way to experience Sri Lanka's tea country and broader topography. I would plan your trip around the seaplane. The drive to Ceylon Tea Trails is long and windy. If you are interested in a particular destination, like Kandy or Ella, perhaps drive one way and seaplane the other. Bungalow selection is very important, and I'd probably advise a split stay across bungalows. Two nights at a lakeside bungalow (Summerville, Castlereagh, Dunkeld) and one night elsewhere (Norwood, Tientsin) would be a good way to experience most of what Ceylon Tea Trails can offer. We stayed at Dunkeld and Tientsin.

Words can not describe this magical place and the experience we had The journey was long, we had to go by car due to the trains not operating for the complete journey, however, it was so worth it! We were both overwhelmed when we arrived, the landscape, beauty, peacefulness, we felt we were in another world The bungalow was wonderful or room outstanding. The service was so exceptional, we felt very special We loved the Tea experience, we will never drink tea without respecting the processes to arrive at a cuppa The food was outstanding, our Chef amazing, nothing was too much trouble, and our packed lunch for our journey to Ella was a lovely touch Thank you for giving us such an amazing experience and memories we will never forget

We had a wonderful few days at Norwood Bungalow, one of 5 Ceylon Tea Trail properties set in the beautiful hill country tea plantations. A relaxing and serene location. The staff and high levels of service were outstanding and we were made to feel that we were ‘home’ away from home. Our special thanks to Nilantha and his team, Sarath, Dunushka and Prakash for making our stay perfect and memorable. The only warning is an increase in our waistlines due to the most delicious food served at all meals! Thank you to the chefs for the superb food choices which were delicious and beautifully presented. The choice of activities was excellent and we enjoyed a tour of the Dunkeld Tea Estate, a visit to Castlereagh Bungalow for lunch and an excellent in-room spa treatment. The bungalows are close to the Pekoe Trail so an opportunity to hike and explore the area. We look forward to returning to Norwood Bungalow - a little piece of paradise.

This is iconic. The team was so wonderful the grounds at Tiensin were wonderful. All the little touches were fantastic. Our butler Priya fed us so well. Thank you to Clement as well for finding my bag and getting it back from Cinnamon Air. The planters lunch hike was a delight and our guide Wasantha was very knowledgeable and made sure our entire group enjoyed the hike.

It’s perfect. Exactly the history I was hoping to experience in the tea fields.

This is a serene retreat with fantastic food and first rate service. we were treated like family. The post British colonial feel to the place adds to the charm . Beautiful World War II, big band music in the background at dinner situated in an area around a huge tea plantation. We had a wonderful visit to Dunheld tea plantation and tasting with Bernard. most of this tea goes to a company called Dilmah. Such a peaceful place to end our 9 to 10 days in Sri Lanka. Special thanks to Nesa, Kasun and Chandra for the incredible service

We had a fabulous 3 night stay at Castlereagh Bungalow. It is worth knowing that the 6 bungalows are totally separate and each one is run as an independent hotel. Castlereagh is set right on the lake providing unbelievable views. The property is the original manager's residence and is beautifully furnished in a British colonial style. The manager, Jakanda, provides an absolutely top class personal service and ensures you are well looked after. The chef provides delicious food from a menu he suggests the day before and discusses with you. Everything we ate was fabulous! Breakfast, three course lunch, tea and amazing dinners are all included along with delicious cocktails, beer, wine etc. Our room was extremely comfortable with a bay window overlooking the lake and full length doors out on to a private garden with sun loungers and table and chairs. The grounds are immaculately maintained and we enjoyed the swimming pool (unheated) and the jacuzzi with the most stunning view. We had the opportunity to kayak on the lake and walked one day to Norwood Bungalow where we enjoyed lunch. We spent an hour of the walk with a naturalist working for the hotel who was extremely informative and interesting. Overall this is one of the best places we have ever stayed and the highlight of our trip to Sri Lanka.

I don’t really want to write this review, because I would much rather keep the Ceylon Tea Trails a secret. Probably one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. We arrived by sea plane (recommended), met by the staff who throughout our stay bent over backwards to make our visit as memorable as possible. The food was exceptional, a mix between Sri Lankan and European. It feels more like a home while you are there rather than a hotel and my only regret is that we couldn’t stay longer, but we are definitely going back. It really is a little bit of paradise.

Очень тихое место среди чайных плантаций с видом на озеро. Живописно, располагающая к отдыху обстановка, тишина и спокойствие. Если хочется активностей и приключений, есть несколько трейлов, каякинг, велосипеды, крокет и тд. Отличный персонал, который окутывает тебя заботой на всех этапах проживания. Бесподобный провар, всегда ориентируются на ваши предпочтения и результат выше всех похвал! Есть возможность ходить в гости в соседние виллы и останавливаться там на чай/обед/ужин.

Magical place, awesome staff. Loved everything about this place. Will definitely be back. Special salute of appreciation goes to Mr. Singh (the smile and attitude that made our stay memorable), and Mr. Nilantha (the bungalow manager who makes sure all goes well). The Chef created some amazing and exceptional dishes. He attended all my little girl’s specific and funny requests. Thank you! My family will remember this beautiful experience.

Distance from airport. Not their mistake.

The location was exceptional and the ambiance amazing.

There was nothing that I did not like apart from another guest who was rather offhand and ignored our efforts to speak with him.

From our very warm welcome to our departure we were very well looked after. Our room was delightful, spacious , and clean and the bathroom equally so. The bed and pillows were comfortable. We loved the tasteful decor which was true to the style and period of the bungalows. The Chef was superb and the food excellent. This was complemented by the very attentive staff and the copious amounts of tea we enjoyed. The views were stunning and the early morning walks we chose to do at sunrise were extremely invigorating. The fact that we could wander along the plantation tracks meant we could exercise at will. A large pot of tea on arrival back at the bungalow and before a good breakfast was particularly enjoyable. Kayaking and a trip to the Tea Factory were fun. We stayed at Dunkeld and Tientsin and had lunch at Castlereagh and would have no hesitation in recommending all of these bungalows. We intend to return to experience certain stages of The Pekoe trail which we were unable to do as a result of the cyclone and fear of landslides. A big thank you to the team at Tea Trails.

We nearly cancelled this part of our Sri lanken journey questioning whether it would feel too ‘British’. Am so glad we didn’t as the hotel is one of a kind. The scenery takes your breath away - photos do not do it justice and it was the perfect location to unwind and relax. We went fishing, explored some beautiful trails and came across the most friendly of villagers along the way. Food is plentiful - 4course lunches and dinners plus high tea! Every meal prepared by the chef is delicious and of really high quality. We were completely indulged. Exceptional hotel, food, service and in a stunning location. We were totally spoilt.

Peaceful, beautiful surroundings. Wonderful location and view over the tea fields, lake and mountains beyond. The most friendly staff team. No wish is too great. Best martini cocktail in years! Serenity all around, Exquisite food every time - Sri Lankan or western menus alike. The chef is supremely talented. A supreme experience; will want to return.

As other reviewers have said , this is a really nice hotel, spread over the five bungalows. Offering incredible views, excellent food, relaxation We stayed in Norwood for two nights, and would have liked to have stayed longer The food is better than good. The rooms and gardens are outstanding So why only 4 out of 5? The answer was that the service and guest care let it down on a couple of occasions The worst was on our first night there were two family groups of six, who were installed around the tho blazing fires. The staff had not considered what they would do with my wife and me. The wanted to put us in a bare, dark cold area. And the result spoilt our first evening. This was inexcusable Moving between the bungalows is not as easy as they show on Amazing Hotels (note to management , do not oversell on PR if you cannot deliver). We wanted lunch at another bungalow, and they put every obstacle in our way to get us to stay at Norwood for lunch. Again it resulted in an unnecessary argument to get the lunch in Castlereigh. Monica & Rob never had this problem. Language was a problem, as there was little management presence in the restaurant - so when the wrong soup was delivered , the waiters could not understand what the problem was But having got all my beefs off my chest, I go back to what I said a the start. A really nice hotel that I hope to return to in the future

An amazing place to relax with family. The views and the location generally were just stunning. Fantastic accommodation, great service and really lovely food. We really enjoyed the tea factory visit and the tiffin lunch was fabulous. We also had a great family walk on the C2 trail. We were looked after so well during our stay with the super attentive staff ready to provide whatever we needed. Thank you so much for making the final leg of our Sri Lanka trip so good

From the moment we arrived at Summerville Bungalow we were made to feel most welcome by the team there. The surroundings are delightful…this really is a little piece of paradise. The food is magnificent and the chef (Gayan) was happy to make changes to the menu or change the planned dinner to suit our tastes. Kasun and Kumara were also always on hand if we needed anything during our stay. We also spent a night at Dunkeld Bungalow and Castlereagh bungalow. I’d highly recommend staying at all of the bungalows as they are all unique with friendly and helpful teams on hand to ensure your stay is perfect. The story behind the founder is well worth reading as the business has a long history of contributing to the community and to important causes. We plan to go back next August and to take our children. I’d highly recommend a visit.

Fantastische service, heerlijk eten en zeer vriendelijke personeel. Mooie rustige omgeving, echt een aanrader!

the staff were fantastic and the food was wonderful

Ceylon Tea trails in one of the best destination stops in the country of Sri Lanka. We found the food to be outstanding, the staff to be highly service oriented and attentive, and the grounds to be delightful. Given the proximity to Kandy and Sigiri Rock also makes it a desirable location. We also enjoyed the tour of the tea manufacturing site and hikes around the property. If you want to save yourself the long drive time, you can book a flight on Cinnamon air and land on the Reservoir just behind the hotel. It is not very expensive and, the hotel can help arrange it for you. If you book a room, make sure to check which Bungalow you are staying at. There are five different sites and some are located on the other side of the Reservoir. We stayed at Sommeville Bungalow which is easiest to access from the Kandy and driving side of the Reservoir.

Ceylon Tea Trails is an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a warmth that instantly makes you feel at home. The staff are beyond excellent, and a special thank you goes to Nilantha for his outstanding care throughout our stay. For future guests: Tea Trails consists of five different bungalows, and unless you specify, you’ll be assigned to one. If there’s a particular bungalow you love from the photos, it’s worth reaching out in advance to request it. No matter where you stay, you’re free to visit the others for meals or drinks, which adds to the charm of the whole experience.

If I had to mention a “negative,” it would only be for the sake of balance, there was simply too much delicious food. Truly, everything was exceptional.

The setting was amazing , the service and accommodation was perfect . The staff were very friendly and our only regret was that er didn’t stay longer Thanks to all

Most beautiful place ever.

Our stay at Ceylon Tea Trails was nothing short of faultless – a true 10/10 experience. It’s easy to see why this is considered the cream of the crop in Sri Lanka. Every element of our stay was executed with such polish and care, yet never felt stuffy or overly formal, just warm, thoughtful hospitality at its finest. We stayed in the Castlereagh Bungalow, in the Baker Room, surrounded by the most beautiful and peaceful setting with our own private garden. The views over the lake in the early morning mist were absolutely breathtaking! The perfect place to slow down and simply enjoy being. One of the highlights of our stay was the tea factory tour, fascinating, engaging, and unexpectedly hilarious thanks to our brilliant guide who had us in stitches while teaching us about the art of tea making. The service here is truly exceptional. The chef came to speak with us before every meal to discuss our preferences, and the food was always superb – beautifully prepared and tailored to us (there are no menus). It made every meal feel special. He is a credit to this hotel! Arjinth, the head butler, runs the bungalow like a well-oiled machine. And our two butlers, Chandrasuriya and Robert, were absolutely delightful kind, professional, always smiling, and genuinely keen to make our stay as comfortable as possible. We felt so well cared for throughout. As we were celebrating our honeymoon, the team went out of their way to make it extra memorable by arranging a special spa treatment for us, which was such a thoughtful and relaxing surprise. It's the kind of gesture that makes you feel truly seen as a guest. My husband also really enjoyed the pool and hot tub facilities. We would love to bring our family here and will be back!!

Norwood Bungalow was a lovely stop on my tea country journey. Even though it was just a short visit, walking through the gardens, lounge areas and verandas felt like stepping back into the planter days. A charming and peaceful corner of the hills.

Exceptional . Accomodation and service next level. Food amazing. Great activities, very organised, scenery stunning. Fautless. .

When we arrived at the Norwood Bungalow, we felt as though we had travelled back in time. Nestled in the middle of the tea plantations, the property offers breathtaking views. We stayed in the Garden Suite, which was very spacious. The rooms have no keys, giving you even more of the feeling of staying in a home rather than a hotel. There is a billiard table, a beautiful living area, and the fireplace was lit in the evenings. Breakfast and dinner are served on the terrace. The food was truly amazing - we had a tea infused dinner the first night and a typical Sri Lankan dinner the next day, both were incredible. Upon our arrival, we were welcomed with a fantastic high tea that included wonderful vegan options. The staff were attentive and friendly, anticipating every wish. Next to the bed there was a small bell — and whenever we pressed it in the morning, tea was brought to us right in bed. We also had lunch at a different bungalow, with a great view of the lake, and went on a hike through the tea plantations. In addition, we took part in the Tea Experience. While it was interesting, we would have appreciated a bit more detail — we expected to walk through the tea fields, but the tour felt a little rushed. Massages are available as well, and we received excellent support with planning our days. Nilantha was wonderful, always ready to help with organizing our itinerary and fulfilling any request. The cook was fantastic, and Anoj and Lashen and the rest of the staff provided exceptional service throughout our stay. Our stay ended far too soon, and we left wishing we could have stayed just a little longer.

What a fantastic hotel concept, with five bungalows spread out over a large area (note that it is often difficult to identify which bungalow is shown in the official photos). Each one has its own special strengths. We stayed in Castlereagh Bungalow – and were thrilled. Hospitality of the highest standard. The rooms were beautifully furnished in colonial style and had fantastic beds, even for people with back problems... We would recommend a cooking class to every guest. Our chef, Mr Rangana, did it with so much charm and dedication, and the result was exceptionally delicious! But every other meal (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner) was also prepared with attention to detail and exceptional quality. All the staff were very, very friendly, but our bungalow assistant, Mr Janaka, was simply so genuinely authentic helpful, as you rarely see. This is a place of peace and relaxation, and families or people looking for parties are completely out of place here. It is a place to enjoy yourself and be pampered. Simply wonderful. Unfortunately, guests sometimes take advantage of this hospitality – as a hotel, I would set more rules here, also to protect my own employees. We really enjoyed our time here! Thank you to everyone!

Personnel empathique, nourriture excellente et situation du bangalow avec vue exceptionnelle sur l’eau et les champs de thé en étage.

We were lucky enough to stay at Dunkeld bungalow which has superb views of the Castlereagh reservoir and the surrounding area which is stunning. In our opinion it has the best views (and location) of any of the Tea Trails bungalows. The weather during our stay was sunny and warm which meant we could walk, swim, kayak and cycle to our heart’s content. Of course if it is wet it is more limiting but considering the season we were fortunate. It felt and was idyllic under those circumstances. The team at Dunkeld is an absolute joy - they cannot do enough for you at any time of the day - they really care and are so kind. Led by Sanjaya who was friendly, charming and funny. Pryantha, Krishna and Wahid were super efficient, lovely and warm too - wanting to help and feed us all the time. Gayashan who cooked most of our meals was a star too - the food was uniformly excellent. Yes each bungalow is looking after only a small number of guests but the staff are just so genuine. When we walked to Norwood bungalow for lunch - everything was so well planned along with the bike ride back and we had an equally warm welcome there too. We went slightly wrong on one part of the walking route - our fault- the response was we will improve the signage at that point and I know they will. Difficult to top as a wonderful place to stay in a country where the people are delightful.

When you leave a beautiful place, you always carry it with you. How true that is. Our time at Ceylon Tea Trails (Castlereagh Bungalow) was wonderful and will remain in our memories forever. Beautifully situated with a view of the lake, you are in good hands here. The team is so attentive, everyone is so friendly and helpful. You will be spoiled with culinary delights and can discuss and customise breakfast, lunch or dinner with the chef. The food in our bungalow was very varied and delicious. No wonder we decided to take a cooking class here, which I would recommend to anyone who appreciates Sri Lankan food. Chef Mr Rangana did a fantastic job and gave us a wonderful introduction to Sri Lankan cuisine. The rooms are very tastefully decorated. There are beautiful books everywhere on the subjects of Sri Lanka, travel, architecture, cuisine and much more, inviting you to linger with a glass of wine or tea. Many people contributed to making our stay so fantastic, but there is one person I must and want to mention. Mr. Janaka, the bungalow assistant, was simply the person who enriched our stay with his manner, professionalism and authentic warmth. We'll be back.

We spent the last few nights of our Sri Lanka week long trip here and it far exceeded our expectations! When you arrive after driving through the long winding roads; it feels as though you’ve been transported into a movie set. The views were breathtaking and the service is superior! Sanjay took great care of us and Ravi made some of the most memorable meals we had. We got to tour the Dilmah tea making factory and picked up the best souvenirs for friends and family. The staff made sure to plan some special excursions for us to make our honeymoon stay feel romantic as well:) We will never forget this majestic place and hope to visit again in the future!

Stunning location. Amazing staff. Great food. Lovely ambience. Immaculate service.

Nothing

The Ceylon Tea Trails is a unique experience in an extraordinarily beautiful environment which I couldn't recommend more highly.

Very beautiful hotel

We like everything

The Ceylon Tea Trails were absolutely magical, the service, setting, scenery is world class. The food and beverage services provided were tailored to suit your individual requirements, very bespoke. A sincere thank you to the entire team that cared for us and made our stay memorable.

My favorite new hidden garden and heaven 🤫 The best experience ever. the hotel views and experience highlight you can check from website no need I mention, the food if you want fresh jumping lobster with happy hour here is not the place just stay in your Colombo no need travel 5 hours here. If you want somewhere feel like home and being taken good care, tasteful furniture, nature healing, peace and green, here is the heaven! 💚 By the way the food is excellent. Fresh, tasty, customized. It’s not easy to make it in mountains + it’s a boutique hotel with few rooms only, they must work very hard to maintain the quality. The service, it’s not those fancy hotel with service SOP and staff just do their job and judge people by their watch, all staffs in Norwood is legend! They care about you and doing everything by heart and their best to make sure you have a wonderful stay. Take care of you like your brother, truly touched the heart. A must go legend !!🌟🌟🌟 If you gonna visit Sri Lanka and have deep pocket and knowing yourself + looking for peace and quality holiday, here is the place. Healed and got so much from natures, thank you Ceylon tea trail I will come back soon! ✨

I had a terrible experience with this property. They charged me twice for the same stay. I had already paid the full amount when I booked through Booking.com, but when I arrived, the host claimed there was a “payment issue” (without giving any clear explanation) and insisted that I pay the full amount again on the spot. They promised that the Booking.com payment would be refunded within 3–5 days — but it has now been over two weeks, and I still haven’t received any refund. Communication with the host has gone nowhere. Be very careful with this place — they charged me twice and never returned the money. Totally untrustworthy.

The room was quite old and not well maintained, especially the one called Tientsin. The host Nilantua was unhelpful and rather careless in handling things, which made the overall experience disappointing. However, one staff member named Krishna was very kind and genuinely helpful — his warm attitude was the only positive part of my stay.

WOW !! What a sublime experience - faultless from start to finish. Ajivith and his team were simply amazing. Impeccable service, cuisine, accommodation, gardens and grounds. Its like a scene from Downton Abbey - surreal and worth every penny. A true indulgence. I would not hesitate to recommend the Tineson Bungalow experience, nestled into the tea plantations right up in the high country with stunning walking trails. Highly recommended