Uga Halloowella to Open in Hatton, Sri Lanka, in January 2025

October 2024…// Uga, the boutique Sri Lankan hotel group renowned for its world-class hospitality, is delighted to announce the upcoming launch of its sixth property, Uga Halloowella, in January 2025.

Perched on a hilltop within a 252-acre tea estate in Sri Lanka’s historic central tea trails region, Uga Halloowella will offer six luxurious suites alongside impeccable indoor and al-fresco dining experiences, expansive lawns, and a large, tempting infinity pool.

Commenting on the upcoming launch, Uga Owner and Managing Director Priyanjith Weerasooria, said: “We are thrilled to announce the latest addition to our stunning portfolio of boutique Sri Lankan hotels, Uga Halloowella. One of our most ambitious projects to date, Halloowella is the epitome of old-world charm and sophistication and will offer the ultimate base from which to explore our country’s famed central tea trails region. 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 in 2025 and beyond.”

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.

Accommodation

The six exclusive guest suites at Halloowella will 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 cozy ambiance filled with plush furnishings and modern amenities to ensure comfort and convenience.

Dining and Activities
The signature restaurant at Uga Halloowella, which will feature an indoor dining room and outdoor terrace, will take guests on a culinary adventure around Sri Lanka using the freshest of produce from the surrounding highlands. With 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.

Endless adventure surrounds the property, which is ideally located to explore the authentic spirit of the highlands. A range of carefully curated experiences, including kayaking in the cool waters of Castlereagh Reservoir, guided tea country hikes, educational visits to a historic tea factory and the chance to uncover Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity by bike, provide an unparalleled opportunity to escape the stresses of urban life and embrace a slower-paced way of life.

Nightly rates at Uga Halloowella will start from $1,125 (£875*) on an all-inclusive basis. For more information or to book, visit www.ugaescapes.com