Dutch House

Introduction

The Dutch House is perched on a hillock overlooking Sri Lanka's southern highlands town of Bandarawela. This is a land of tea-covered hills, gushing waterfalls, mountain peaks and a fresher climate. This oft-praised boutique villa is set on a two-acre garden filled with fruit trees and flowering plants that attract many birds. It has reopened under new Sri Lankan owners who have created a distinct local feel with the use of antiques, art and soft furnishings. The villa has a satinwood and ebony staircase, boarded floors and a spacious verandah that lets you take in the mountainous scenery. It offers well-appointed bedrooms and an informal and relaxing ambience. It can accommodate up to four guests and is booked exclusively on an HB basis. The approach road is hilly and winding and a four-wheel drive is recommended. 

Accommodation

The two spacious loft style double rooms are located on the upper floor. Bedrooms are light and airy and have hard wood floors and sloping roofs that have exposed timber beams. One bedroom is furnished with a queen-size bed and the other has twin beds. Ensuite bathrooms have h/w showers.

Facilities

The ground floor consists of a lounge with a fireplace, dining room, and kitchen. There is a TV room on the upper floor with comfortable sofas, cable TV, DVD player and board games. Sri Lankan and western cuisine, snacks and refreshments are served. Alcohol is BYO. Take in the spectacular mountain views from the verandah; or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool. Complementary wifi, in-house chef/manager, housekeeper.

Why We Like It

An indoor pool is an additional attraction of one of the best-loved houses in the hill country.

Location

Ella and Haputale are half an hour away from Dutch House. Bandarawela is linked by the stunning highlands railway to Nuwara Eliya, Hatton, Kandy and Colombo. Around five hours from Colombo, or consider air taxi options. You can also head to the south coast via a daily sea plane service between Hatton and Koggala.