Uga Halloowella, a luxurious six-suite boutique hotel set in Sri Lanka’s tea country, will open its doors in January 2025.
Set in the verdant hills of Sri Lanka’s historic central tea trails region, a new beacon of luxury is set to illuminate the hospitality landscape.
Uga, the renowned boutique hotel group synonymous with world-class Sri Lankan hospitality, has announced the impending launch of its sixth property, Uga Halloowella, slated to open its doors in January 2025.
A Hilltop Haven
Perched atop a picturesque hill within a sprawling 252-acre tea estate, Uga Halloowella promises to be a sanctuary of tranquillity and opulence. The property will feature six meticulously crafted suites, each offering a unique blend of colonial charm and modern comfort.
A visual feast that encapsulates the essence of Sri Lanka’s magnificent hill country will be provided to guests, who will be treated to panoramic views of the adjacent tea plantations and the shimmering Castlereagh Reservoir.
The centrepiece of this luxurious retreat is a colonial-era bungalow, lovingly restored to its former glory.
Under the expert guidance of renowned Sri Lankan architect Channa Daswatte, the property has undergone a meticulous transformation, preserving its historical significance while incorporating contemporary amenities that discerning travellers have come to expect from the Uga brand.
A Legacy Reborn
Steeped in history, the Halloowella estate carries a fascinating heritage. Once the domain of Major Elton Lane, a World War I fighter pilot for the British Royal Air Force, the property stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial past.
Situated 1,444 metres above sea level, the bungalow offers a cool respite from the tropical heat, inviting guests to step back in time while enjoying the comforts of the present.
Priyanjith Weerasooria, Owner and Managing Director of Uga, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “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.”
Luxurious Accommodations
Uga Halloowella will offer three distinct categories of suites, each designed to provide an unparalleled experience of luxury and comfort. The Lane Suites, named in honour of the property’s original owners, Elton and Violet Lane, are the epitome of elegance.
Spanning between 843 and 958 square feet, these expansive suites feature a spacious living room, a regal four-poster bed, and a wood-burning fireplace perfect for chilly highland evenings. The airy en-suite bathrooms are complete with ornate claw-foot bathtubs, strategically positioned to offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Pekoe Suites, taking their name from the world-famous Pekoe Trail that meanders around the property, offer a generous 398 to 439 square feet of living space.
These charming suites boast elegant four-poster beds, ornate furnishings that blend colonial style with modern comfort, and luxurious claw-foot bathtubs. Each Pekoe Suite also features a private garden providing breathtaking views of the lush mountains.
Paying homage to the skilled tea planters who have tended the Halloowella estate over generations, the Planter’s Suites offer a comfortable 416 to 444 square feet of living area. These well-appointed suites feature panoramic vistas of the Castlereagh Reservoir, a cosy ambience with plush furnishings, and modern amenities ensuring both comfort and convenience.
Culinary Delights and Dining Experiences
At the heart of Uga Halloowella’s culinary offerings is its signature restaurant, promising to take guests on a gastronomic journey across Sri Lanka.
With both indoor and outdoor dining options, the restaurant will showcase the finest produce from the surrounding highlands, crafted into exquisite dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the island.
A wide variety of dining experiences are available to guests. These include a secret sundowner experience, which is ideal for toasting the conclusion of a day’s exploits, and a degustation menu that has been deftly curated and paired with the finest wines.
For those interested in delving deeper into local cuisine, hands-on Sri Lankan cooking masterclasses will be available, offering insight into local culinary traditions. Casual garden barbecues will allow guests to dine under the stars, providing a relaxed and memorable dining experience.
Activities and Experiences
Uga Halloowella’s location in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country provides an ideal base for exploration and adventure. The property offers a carefully curated selection of experiences designed to immerse guests in the authentic spirit of the highlands.
Kayaking excursions on the tranquil waters of Castlereagh Reservoir are among the water-based exploits that provide a distinctive viewpoint of the surrounding tea estates and mountains.
Tea country exploration is a key feature of the Halloowella experience. Guests can enjoy guided hikes through the lush tea plantations, which provide insight into the area’s rich history and tea-making process. Educational visits to historic tea factories are also available, where guests can learn about the art of tea production and sample some of the world’s finest teas.
For those interested in delving deeper into local culture, opportunities to engage with local communities and learn about traditional crafts and customs are available. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of cycling tours through the picturesque countryside, allowing them to discover Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity at a leisurely pace.
Accessibility and Location
Situated 146 kilometres from Colombo, Uga Halloowella offers guests a choice of arrival options.
Visitors can opt for a scenic drive through the Sri Lankan countryside, allowing them to gradually acclimate to the changing landscape and altitude. For those seeking a more expeditious and spectacular arrival, helicopter transfers are available.
The property’s strategic location places it within easy reach of some of the region’s most coveted attractions, including the famous Pekoe Trail. This proximity allows guests to seamlessly blend luxurious relaxation with cultural exploration and adventure.
Looking Ahead
As Uga Halloowella prepares to welcome its first guests in January 2025, anticipation is building within the luxury travel community.
The property represents not just a new accommodation option, but a gateway to experiencing the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s tea country in unparalleled comfort and style.
With nightly rates starting from $1,125 (around £875) on an all-inclusive basis, Uga Halloowella is positioning itself at the forefront of luxury hospitality in Sri Lanka.
The property’s unique blend of historical charm, modern luxury, and immersive experiences promises to create lasting memories for those fortunate enough to visit.
As the countdown to the grand opening begins, Uga Halloowella stands poised to become a jewel in Sri Lanka’s tourism crown, offering a sanctuary of peace and luxury amidst the timeless beauty of the island’s central highlands.
