Uga Halloowella opens in Hatton

Thursday, 23 January 2025 03:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Uga, the boutique Sri Lankan hotel group renowned for its world-class hospitality, has announced the launch of its sixth property, Uga Halloowella.

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.

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.”

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 1,444 m 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.

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 signature restaurant at Uga Halloowella, features 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.