Paradise Eco Garden

Introduction

Paradise Eco Garden is a three-bedroom eco retreat in the hills of Kitulgala. A 2km winding, narrow roadway leads to the main plantation house, which has a front veranda overlooking the infinity pool and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Nestled at the foot of the central highlands, this is a picturesque location framed by mountains and immersed in nature. Accommodation is in three simple bedrooms located in the main bungalow and the lodge below. Paradise Eco Garden is a tranquil tropical oasis with lush vegetation, flowing waterfalls and a treasure trove of Sri Lanka's most valuable crops including rubber, green tea, cinnamon, fruits and vegetables - all grown organically. These attract plenty of birds, monkeys and rock squirrels.

Accommodation

There are two ensuite bedrooms in the bungalow and a third bedroom in a separate lodge. Bedrooms in the bungalow lead out to the main lounge and swimming pool, whereas the lodge bedroom is spacious and has more privacy, opening out to a private veranda and its own smaller swimming pool. Room interiors are simple but comfortable, furnished with four-poster beds fitted with mosquito nets. Terracotta floor tiles and overhead ceiling fans help to keep the rooms cool and comfortable. Ensuite bathrooms have h/w showers.

Facilities

Within the bungalow, a large open veranda serves as a dining and lounge space, which is bordered by an infinity pool with fresh spring water that cascades down from the surrounding rainforest. Traditional Sri Lankan rice and curries, snacks and fresh juices are served here. Meals are prepared with fresh vegetables and fruit from their own gardens as well as from the local village. The lounge is equipped with satellite TV and Wi-Fi. Ayurveda massages are also on offer, in a small wattle-and-daub hut with a thatched roof which adjoins the main house. Paradise Eco Garden offers guided nature treks, bird watching trails, visits to the surrounding village, a Sri Lankan cookery experience and tours through the organic tea plantation. For walks to the nearby waterfalls, leech socks are recommended. A team of staff includes a manager, cook and housekeeper.

Why we like it

This jungle haven on a hilly organic farm near Kitulgala has a get-away-from-it-all feel with a swimming pool for a little luxury

Location

Paradise Eco Garden is set on an organic tea and vegetable plantation in the village of Ganepalla, just two 2km from Kitulgala. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take about three hours.