Boutique Sri Lankan hotel group Uga Resorts, renowned for its world-class hospitality, has announced the opening in June of its eighth property in Sri Lanka, Uga Ghiri, located in the Central Highlands region.
Uga Ghiri is nestled within the grounds of the mountain hamlet of Ella’s historic Sutherland Estate and will consist of 15 standalone villas with a luxurious, contemporary design which stand alongside a meticulously restored colonial-era manor. Acting as the main house for the hotel, the manor will be home to the indoor-outdoor restaurant as well as an infinity pool and a state-of-the art health spa. It also has an impressive library and drawing room complete with fireplace to keep guests warm and cosy on those cooler nights.
The property looks out over sweeping panorama views of Ella’s emerald tea plantations, rolling hills and world-famous brick-and-stone viaduct Nine Arch Bridge which was completed back in 1919.
Uga Ghiri is set in 10 lush acres of terraced hillside and will give guests spectacular sweeping views across the tea-carpeted valleys and misty peaks in the distance. This area of Sri Lanka’s famous central highland region has captivated generations of travellers though the years with its dramatic landscape and timeless charm.
Ella itself is located close to some of the island’s most popular attractions such as Little Adam’s Peak which is accessible by foot. Ella Rock and Ravana Falls will offer a rewarding adventure for those who want to venture further afield. The countryside is also surrounded by working tea estates, where the art of Ceylon tea-making continues with its methods remaining unchanged for centuries.
Each of the 1,200 square foot 15 luxurious standalone villas feature a contemporary and elegant design that is blended with subtle nods to Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage and comprises of a bedroom, separate living area and en-suite bathroom with bathtub, walk-in shower and his-and-hers vanity. The expansive windows act as frames to the stunning landscape outside, where guests will also find an outdoor deck and private 6 foot hot tub.
There will be plenty of activities for guests. For example, foodies will be able to take a journey from picking tea to the tea cup with the resort’s signature artisanal tea experience, as well as indulge themselves in a spot of Ceylon arrak-tasting or try their hand at Sri Lankan cuisine with a market-to-table cooking masterclass.
The more adventurous will be able to take a bike ride through the surrounding tea estates and villages and maybe even take on the adrenaline-packed descent from the Namunukula Ridge.
Uga Owner and Managing Director Priyanjith Weerasooria, commented on the new opening, saying:
“We are delighted to announce the upcoming launch of Uga Ghiri, the newest property in our beautiful collection of boutique Sri Lankan retreats. An intimate, all-inclusive retreat of just 15 private villas in the heart of the extraordinarily beautiful central highlands region, the property invites guests to slow down, reconnect with nature and immerse themselves in hill country life. From restorative wellness experiences and elevated dining to meaningful encounters with the surrounding landscape and communities, Uga Ghiri embodies our commitment to thoughtful luxury and to creating deeply authentic experiences rooted in Sri Lanka’s most remarkable destinations.”
Uga Ghiri is the latest property in the Uga collection and when it opens in June, will join Uga Prāva in Galle, Uga Ulagalla in Anuradhapura, Uga Jungle Beach in Trincomalee, Uga Bay in Pasikuda, Uga Chena Huts in Yala, Uga Riva, a heritage-style manor house hotel in Negombo and Uga Halloowella in Hatton.
Nightly rates at Uga Ghiri will start from $1,200 (£899) per villa per night on an all-inclusive basis. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit: www.ugaresorts.com.
The Details
Uga Ghiri, Sutherland Estate, Passara Road, Ella, Sri Lanka.
Tel: +94 11 5 671 00 / +94 11 2 117 100
Website: www.ugaresorts.com/ghiri
Email: inquiries@ugaresorts.com
Located in the Central Highlands region of Sri Lanka, Uga Ghiri is approximately a 4½ hour car journey from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport.
Type of Hotel: 5-Star Hotel
Number of Rooms: 15 villas with complimentary Wi-Fi.
Price Band: High
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based travel and motoring journalist and editor, a former member of The British Guild of Travel Writers and professional photographer.
Photographs courtesy of Uga Ghiri
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