This beautiful property was originally home to Mark & Lif Bostock third generation British tea planters, who until 1973 occupied the bungalow and managed the surrounding estate. The bungalow is still owned by the family who ran it as a modest guest house until recently when it under went a major renovation to turn it into a delightful boutique hotel steeped in history.

WHAT ITS GOT

Kirchhayn's five bedrooms are extremely romantic with four poster beds dressed in white linen, floating net curtains and roll top baths. Rooms to the front of the property benefit from stunning views of the 8 acre garden, while those to the rear enjoy individual courtyard gardens. All rooms have adjoining en-suites, but there is no air-conditioning because it is simply not needed in the hill country.

There is a traditional drawing room with sumptuous sofas and an open fire, cable TV and a DVD player. Alternatively you can opt to sit in the conservatory with endless reading material and old Bostock family pictures adorning the walls.

The highlight of this property is definitely the garden, with a rolling lawn that reaches down to the tea plantation, immaculately maintained flower beds and great seating areas on the veranda and by the pool, for eating breakfast or relaxing.

FOOD & DRINKS

Guests normally eat together in the dinning room or on the veranda, although a more private set up can be arranged if guests would prefer. I tried pumpkin soup, followed by roast chicken, potatoes and veg (which after weeks of curries made a welcome change!) The portions were perhaps a little large but better to have too much rather than too little.

The bungalow supplies an extensive range of beverages including a good wine list, with pre-dinner cocktails and liqueurs being the order of the day.

FUN & GAMES

Bandarawela is about a 1.5 hours drive from Nuwara Eliya, 50 mins to Adam's Peak and 45 mins to Horton Plains. The beautiful town of Ella is also under an hour away, with its impressive waterfall cascading down into the Ella Gap.

For those who would prefer to stay closer to home, the bungalow's manager Mohammed will happily arrange tours of the Aislaby Estate and tea factory or perhaps a civilised game of croquet on the lawn. The area is great for walking and bird watching, and a stroll up to the Bostock family seat is a must.

DRAWBACKS

WHAT OTHER'S THOUHGHT

"An idyllic and tranquil spot. The highest quality food and perfect service. Thank you. Also for the walks and for the garden.... we want to take it with us! I wish our itinerary allowed us to stay longer."
(January 2006, Nick Johnson)

ESSENTIAL EXTRAS

Room rates are approximately £134 per night.

Extra beds and cots are available for young children free of charge.

Click for more information on: Sri Lanka Holidays, Sri Lanka Villas, Sri Lanka Hotels, Sri Lanka Tours. Better still give us a call on 0207 112 0019 or email srilanka@fleewinter.com for free independent advice on the best places to stay.

Key Features:
Pool - Shared
Restaurant - Fully Staffed
6 double beds
5 bathrooms
5 en-suite
Mountain Views