Roseland Cottages

Introduction

Roseland Cottages is much-loved by many guests who fall for its unpretentious charms. It lies on a hill to the east of Bandarawela, boasting mesmerising views of the mountains beyond. Surrounded by tea estates, sparse forest and a feel of homeliness, it is distinctly off the beaten track, where you can awake to stunning sunrises, natural hospitality and an atmosphere of rare serenity. With mild weather and pleasant temperatures, the area has a favoured climate by hill country standards. This sustainable organic farm is a hidden gem in an escapist and lightly-populated area, a considerably more peaceful hill-country option to the busting and touristy hill country town of Ella, which is a windy 14kms away and a hotspot for many a traveller. Well worth the drive if your priority is to get away from it and revel in the simple life.

Accommodation

There are four spacious, if basic, chalets offering good levels of comfort. Cottages have a double bed with plush mattresses and ever-so-soft pillows. Three of the rooms can accommodate one extra bed. There are also plenty of extra blankets for a chilly night. The rooms are simple, with titanium-finish cut and polish cement floors and walls and rustic furniture. The floor to ceiling windows opening out to the views are impressive and allow you to relax on the spacious wooden rail balcony. Each room is equipped with a TV with satellite channels, Wi-Fi, mini-fridge, tea/coffee facility, hairdryer and an incredibly comfortable sofa as well as a shelf to keep your belongings. The bathroom is simple and consists of h/w shower as well as necessary toiletries.

Facilities

The main house consists of a small open lounge blending into the relatively spacious restaurant area furnished with a couple of dining tables. There is a serving hatch from the well-equipped kitchen and a small, but interesting range of books in a small corner of the open space.

If you can break away from the views, there are plenty of treks possible, through tea fields and scrub jungle. Roseland Cottages has a farm, which guests can visit. With a selection of vegetables and some very rare varieties of fruits, and the owner’s much-cherished little coffee plantation, the farm walk is a rewarding experience. Take a dip in a river which is accessible by a 30-minute trek or hire a guide to help you negotiate the route to a nearby waterfall. An artisan tea and coffee making experience is available.

Roseland Cottages is not positioned close to any eateries so be prepared to enjoy some delicious homemade food. You can choose from a variety of Sri Lankan and Western cuisine, and the limited options nearby are hardly an issue as the produce is fresh and the dishes are arguably some of the best in the area.

Notes: Credit cards are not accepted so bring plenty of cash for casual purchases. Also, Roseland Cottages operates a BYO alcohol policy as it has no liquor licence. It is also advisable to arrive at the property before 5pm.

Why We Like It

Jaw-dropping sunrises and a welcoming vibe can help you rediscover the attraction of the simple things in life

Location

Overlooking the valley and lofty ranges beyond, Roseland Cottages is east of Bandarawela, about half-an-hour’s drive down minor roads from the busy backpacker haunt of Ella. Kandy is four hours away, Uda Walawe about two hours and Roseland Cottages is also a great stop to or from Arugam Bay which is three hours to the east.