Driving through Sri Lanka’s never-ending tea plantations, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in another country altogether.

The pace slows, the traffic thins out and the landscape turns a verdant green with row after row of tea bushes as far as the eye can see.

One of the hubs of the region is Hatton, which is now home to Uga’s latest property, the six suite, all-inclusive Uga Halloowella, which opened in January.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking Castlereagh Reservoir and set within a peaceful 101-hectare tea estate, it was once the home of Major Elton Lane, a World War I fighter pilot for the British Royal Air Force.

Now reimagined by this homegrown hospitality brand, the colonial-era bungalow sits 1,444m above sea level with amazing views and offers guests a luxurious stay in an intimate, homely setting.

On arrival staff greeted me with a fresh garland crafted out of tea leaves from the estate and I was introduced to my butler who would look after me throughout my stay.

This sophisticated property has been meticulously restored and offers stunning interiors in the communal living areas and guest bedrooms. The attention to detail and high-end finishings are admirable and the setting sublime. Sitting in the lounge area with its wood panels, comfy sofas and roaring log fire (it can get chilly in the hills), I felt like I had been transported to Scotland.

My home for two nights was the Lane Suite, a beautifully furnished abode with separate seating and reading area, huge four poster bed, plush handmade curtains, wood burner, large bathroom with roll-top bath, double sinks and rainforest shower, walk-in wardrobe and a private terrace. The Pekoe Suites and Planter’s Suites are equally luxurious and offer plenty of space.

Food first 

The food is delicious and the concept of an all-inclusive rate works well, with plentiful choices. The chef creates delightful Sri Lankan cuisine alongside western favourites to great effect – in particular, the Sri Lankan High Tea is a must and is offered to all guests once during a stay.

The main dining room has been decorated with hand-painted murals on and it felt as if this space was still evolving – candles on the tables at night would add to the atmosphere during dinner, maybe alongside some of the beautiful tea leaf garlands as a table decoration.

Outside I enjoyed nightly pre-dinner gin and tonics on the terrace as I watched the sun set over the reservoir. The infinity pool was perfect for a swim after a day of exploring and there’s a small outdoor spa area where guests can indulge in a range of treatments.

The hotel is 146km from Colombo, a journey which took around five hours by car, but guests can also choose to arrive by train, helicopter or even seaplane. Uga Halloowella is perfectly located to explore the region’s best attractions, including Sri Lanka’s Pekoe Trail.

Walking stage seven of the trail with my friendly female guide was a highlight of my trip, as we explored the tea plantations, discovered the towns and villages that keep them going and crossed paths with friendly workers who pick the tea and toil in the fields.

For clients looking for a unique stay in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, Uga Halloowella is the perfect choice. Combine it with a train ride through the tea plantations to Kandy, ranked as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, and you’ll create one of the most authentic trips clients could hope for on this wonderful island.

How to book it

Nightly rates at Uga Halloowella start from $1,125 on an all-inclusive basis.

Carrier offers seven nights from £8,475 per person, including three nights at Uga Halloowella in a Peoke Suite on all-inclusive basis, three nights at Uga Chena Huts in a luxury cabin with pool on all-inclusive basis, and one night at Uga Riva Negombo in a superior room with breakfast.

Also includes flights with Emirates from Heathrow to Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, VIP departure service, transfers and safaris and activities.