April 2025…// Uga, the boutique Sri Lankan hotel group renowned for its world-class hospitality, is delighted to announce the official opening of its sixth property, Uga Halloowella, on 1st January 2025.
Perched on a hilltop within a 252-acre tea estate in Sri Lanka’s historic central tea trails region, Uga Halloowella offers six luxurious suites alongside impeccable indoor and al-fresco dining experiences, expansive lawns, and a large, tempting infinity pool.
“We are thrilled to unveil the latest addition to our stunning portfolio of boutique Sri Lankan hotels, Uga Halloowella, whose old-world charm and sophistication offers the ultimate base from which to explore our country’s famed central tea trails region.” said Uga Owner and Managing Director Priyanjith Weerasooria. “Paired with the warmth of Uga hospitality, this masterfully restored heritage property – surrounded on all fronts by astonishing natural beauty – makes for a truly memorable Sri Lankan adventure. This launch marks the start of what is set to be one of Uga’s most exciting and ambitious years to date, with April seeing the opening of a seventh property, Uga Prāva in Tangalle, located on one of the country’s most beautiful beaches.”
Location
Located 146km from Colombo, Uga Halloowella is accessible via helicopter or by scenic drive and is on the doorstep of some of the region’s must-visit attractions, including the famous Pekoe Trail.
Nestled within the cool climes and quiet hills of Hatton and overlooking the stunning Castlereagh Reservoir, the colonial-era bungalow sits 1,444m above sea level on the sprawling former estate of Major Elton Lane, a World War I fighter pilot for the British Royal Air Force. Steeped in history and heritage and enveloped by lush tea estates, the property has been lovingly restored to its former glory by Uga alongside renowned Sri Lankan architect Channa Daswatte.
Often referred to as a gateway to the scenic hill country, Hatton holds a rich history intertwined with the colonial era when British planters settled in the area to cultivate tea, giving rise to a vibrant cultural tapestry that blends indigenous traditions with colonial influences. The region’s cool climate, characterized by misty mornings and gentle breezes, creates an ideal environment for growing some of the world’s finest tea, which has been a cornerstone of the local economy for over a century.
Accommodation
The six exclusive guest suites at Halloowella provide old-world sophistication together with all the luxurious comforts for which Uga is renowned. Three categories of suites – Planter’s, Pekoe and Lane – feature design cues taken from the property’s colonial history combined with ultra-modern amenities:
- The Lane Suites (843 – 958 sq ft) – Paying homage to the original owners of the bungalow, Elton and Violet Lane, the sprawling Lane Suites showcase the very best of Sri Lankan hospitality, with a large living room, four-poster bed and a wood-burning fireplace perfect for chillier evenings in the highlands. Airy en-suite bathrooms feature ornate claw-foot bathtubs in the optimal vantage point for enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the hill country.
- The Pekoe Suites (398 – 439 sq ft) – Named after the world-famous Pekoe Trail that winds its way around the property, the charming Pekoe Suites offer four-poster beds, ornate furnishings, and luxurious claw-foot bathtubs along with a private garden providing incredible views of the surrounding lush mountains.
- The Planter’s Suites (416 – 444 sq ft) – Taking their name from the talented planters who have worked on the Halloowella estate over the years, the well-appointed Planter’s Suites offer panoramic views of Castlereagh and a cosy ambiance filled with plush furnishings and modern amenities to ensure comfort and convenience.
Dining
The culinary offering at Uga Halloowella is inspired by the rich heritage and vibrant flavours of Hatton and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, taking guests on a culinary adventure using the freshest of seasonal produce from the surrounding highlands.
The menus at the property’s signature restaurant, which features an indoor dining room and outdoor terrace, reflect a harmonious fusion of authentic local tastes and refined global techniques, where guests can savour both traditional Sri Lankan dishes and indulge in the finest international cuisine, with a side of British heritage. Stand out fusion dishes include: Halloowella signature poached eggs with English muffin, curried crab cake, Seeni Sambol and turmeric hollandaise, and Ceylon-tea and herb-crusted lamb rack with pea purée and a lavender tea red wine reduction. A ‘Sri Lankan Discovery’ menu celebrates all that is truly Sri Lankan, serving up traditional dishes such as Negombo pork curry with milk rice and East Coast sour fish curry with hoppers.
With additional dining experiences ranging from a secret sundowner experience and a degustation and wine pairing dinner to Sri Lankan cooking masterclasses and garden barbeques, a true gastronomic journey awaits at Uga Halloowella.
Activities
Endless adventure surrounds Uga Halloowella, which is ideally located to explore the authentic spirit of the highlands. A range of carefully curated experiences provide an unparalleled opportunity to escape the stresses of urban life and embrace a slower-paced way of living.
Signature experiences include a ‘Dawn Glide’ sunrise kayaking excursion on the cool waters of Castlereagh Reservoir. Promising the most serene of starts to the day, the excursion will see guests glide across the water as the morning mist lifts and the first rays of sunshine glisten on the surface, with only the melodies of local birds as company.
For the more adventurous, a ‘Rolling through the Tea Hills’ cycling tour will see adrenaline-seekers wind their way through the area’s lush tea plantations on two wheels, enjoying breathtaking panoramic mountain views at every turn. Meanwhile, nature lovers can take on the famous Pekoe Trail, which is suitable for all abilities and takes hikers through the very heart of the picturesque tea country, beginning in the charming town of Kotagala and winding past local landmarks and cultural sights including the stunning Singamalai lake, Chrysler’s Farm tea factory, Castlereagh Reservoir, Hindu kovils and Christian churches.
Opportunities to learn about the area’s history as a world centre for tea production include the daily complimentary Tea Experience, where guests will visit a nearby tea estate and factory. Here, a guide will provide a deep dive into the history of tea, while leading a tour of the estate and factory. Participants will witness first-hand various methods of tea plucking and production, many of which have remained unchanged for centuries, learning the secrets behind crafting the perfect cup of tea before savouring several freshly brewed Ceylon teas in an interactive tasting session. Back at Uga Halloowella, guests can tuck in to their very own al-fresco Sri Lankan Afternoon Tea experience, enjoying a Sri Lankan selection of finger foods and sweet treats paired with their choice of local tea as they soak up the splendour of the property’s garden, overlooking the Castlereagh reservoir.
Nightly rates at Uga Halloowella will start from $1,125 (£901*) on an all-inclusive basis. For more information or to book, visit www.ugaescapes.com
