Deals of the day
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Welcome to Thotalagala, a remarkable feat of restoration. The planters bungalow has been revived to its former glory, with seven themed suites based on personalities that shaped the history of the province of Uva, one of the foremost tea growing regions in Sri Lanka, the finest tea growing region in the world.
Haputale is ideally located on the trail between Sri Lanka’s lush mountains and the descent towards the south coast and the jungles of Yala and Udawalawe which are a two hour drive away.
Across the hills the ancient capital of Kandy lies within a two and a half hour radius. This location between Kandy and the Southern Wildlife parks and beaches makes Haputale an ideal location to sample the best of Sri Lanka’s tea country.
Thotalagala is steeped in history; it is located on Pitaratmalie Estate which is part of Agarapatana Plantations, a collection of estates that totals almost 8000 hectares of the finest high grown tea that Sri Lanka produces.
Adjoining the estate is Dambatenne, possibly the most famous estate in all of Sri Lanka. Dambatenne is one of the only estates in the world that Sir Thomas Lipton planted himself.
The term “Ceylon Tea” was coined here, and Lipton’s Tea was founded and sold its first pound of tea from the precincts of the factory which still stands today. Guests of Thotalagala will be granted exclusive access to the factory and the bungalow which was Sir Thomas Lipton’s residence from 1890 to 1910.
Thotalagala bungalow is surrounded by 20 acres of lawn and patana grass. From the edge of the lawn a sweeping vista greets the eye. Behind the bungalow and covering the Haputale hills lies 4000 hectares of tea stretching unto Lipton’s seat, 1500 feet above,and over onto the Bandarawela side of the mountain.
The seven suites represent the epitome of colonial luxury. The teak panelled smoking room is the ideal place to retreat to for an after dinner cognac.
The dining room itself is with its twenty seater table, a place to savour traditional hearty plantation fare. This is also a working estate and guest will be able to immerse themselves into the traditional lifestyle of a tea planter.
Come and explore true working tea country, walk through endless tea gardens. We invite you to stay with us awhile, to travel back in time and walk in the footsteps of Sir Thomas Lipton.
HERITAGE
Welcome to Thotalagala, one of the first, and most beautiful 19th century tea planters’ bungalows in Sri Lanka. Having recently been through a masterful restoration, the bungalow has been returned to its former glory, retaining in its every perfect detail, the lush grandeur of its colonial origins.
Haputale lies at the heart of the Uva Province, and one of the most resplendent jewels in its crown is Thotalagala, a luxurious colonial tea planter’s bungalow which boasts what must be one of the island’s most stupendous vistas.
Located on Pitaratmalie Estate, part of the vast Agarapatana Plantation, the bungalow was built in the 19th century. Encircled by 20 acres of charming lawns and flower beds, Thotalagala still maintains the landscaping set out by an ardent British gardening enthusiast nearly two centuries ago.
Thotalagala lies adjacent to Dambatenne, one of the only estates in the world that Sir Thomas Lipton planted himself, and where the term “Ceylon Tea” was coined. Lipton often resided in the bungalow when travelling around his estates, and no doubt enjoyed the magnificent view it offered of his flourishing plantation.
Filled with memorabilia from the British Colonial era, and paying respectful homage to the traditional lifestyle of those intrepid tea planters of yore, Thotalagala offers guests a completely immersive and utterly indulgent experience.
ROOMS & SUITES
Each of our seven suites has been dedicated to the memory of a gentleman who played an integral role in the development of the province.
These suites celebrate the idiosyncrasies of their namesakes, while also serving as opulent tributes to the designs, hues, shapes and concepts that typified the British colonial era in Sri Lanka. Step back in time, and into the ultimate in comfort and luxury.
SIR THOMAS LIPTON
Self made man, merchant, yachtsman and the name behind the world renowned tea brand; this genial, enterprising Glasgowian left an indelible impression not just on Haputale, but on the entire country.
Every detail of this suite pays exquisite tribute to both the wide interests of Lipton himself, as well as the languid luxury of the British Colonial era. At 59 m2, this suite is a generously proportioned space that includes an en-suite bathroom and a sitting room, as well as a secluded porch overlooking a charming garden.
MAJOR ROGERS
A Major in the Ceylon Rifle Regiment, Assistant Government Agent and District Judge of Badulla, Rogers is perhaps most remembered as an Elephant hunter, a pastime that was widely popular in Colonial times.
Revel in the solid, masculine appeal of this well appointed suite. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the bath, followed by a generous measure of liquid pleasure in front of the roaring fire. The perfect end to a day spent exploring the great outdoors.
Today, tragically, our magnificent Sri Lankan Elephants are much reduced in number. A stay in this suite directly contributes to the conservation of these creatures through Thotalagala’s sponsorship of The Environmental Foundation Limited.
REV. WALTER SENIOR
Popularly known as the ‘Bard of Lanka’, English scholar and poet – Reverend Senior is the author of the famous Hymn for Ceylon. He remained in Sri Lanka till the end of his days and is buried in the St. Andrew’s Churchyard, Haputale.
True to the elegance of mind that characterized this worthy gentleman, this suite features not only a private living room and fire place, but also a small yet well stocked library.
The magnificent four poster bed with pristine white linen and draperies is designed for those who desire to wake up inspired, renewed and ready to write a new chapter in their lives.
EXPERIENCES
Our living spaces are not just about comfort, elegant furnishings and modern conveniences; each has its own character and quirks, things that make them and your stay with us unforgettable
A Beautiful Sunrise
It begins even before you open your eyes, with the sweet sound of bird song…You sense the change in the air, the prospect of warmth, an invitation, drawing you out to the deck.Look out across the garden. Look further, and further, as far as the eye can see.
This view does more than take your breath, it steals your heart. Tender rays kiss the mountains. It is the beginning of another glorious day.A sunrise will never be more beautiful than it is here.
Breakfast On The Lawn
Feel like you can’t bear to leave the view behind? You don’t have to. We are happy to serve you breakfast on the lawn. A perfect cup of single estate, premium quality tea, served in a delicate period china cup. A beverage to warm body and soul.
Your breakfast is served hot, bread straight from our oven, our very own preserves, fruit from nearby orchards and gardens, luscious strawberries, generous grapes, whatever the seasonal abundance brings. Tea with a view. A feast for the senses.
BBQ The Thotalagala Way
Want to begin and end the day outdoors? We empathise. And a BBQ is always an excellent notion. But remember, this is BBQ the Thotalagala way, in style. By the light of flaming torches, whet your appetite with something from our fine range of potables, superlative wine cellar, or selection of world class Champagnes.
Take a deep breath and revel in the fragrance of premium grade meats on the grill, all carefully prepared and delicately flavoured to delight the most refined palate. Gather around our table.
See how the candle light is caught and held in gleaming glassware, polished lamps, and the languid eyes of that special someone….
Cigar Room
In the plush cigar room, time stands still. By the light of the roaring fire, its glow reflected in the sheen on the wooden paneling, you can sense how those elegant 19th century gentleman, gathered in this room.
Perhaps, as they sat around this very same folding card table, they talked of their ambitions and challenges, and laughed away all doubts and cares. Join them in a fine cigar, and sip an even finer cognac.
Sink into the soft, soothing comfort of a leather chair, and dip into a book on the history of this extraordinary time. This room is more than just an elegantly appointed space. It is a piece of history, preserved, perfect, yours to savour.
POINTS OF INTEREST
In the mood to venture out and explore? Haputale and its surrounding areas have much to offer in terms of historical interest and phenomenal natural beauty. We would be delighted to arrange a customized excursion for you.
Dambatenne Tea Factory
Built in 1890 by Sir Thomas Lipton himself, this colonial tea factory is still in operation today. The term “Ceylon Tea” was coined here, and Lipton’s Tea was founded and sold its first pound of tea from the precincts of this very factory.
The factory tour is an education in the intricate processes involved in the fermentation, rolling, drying, cutting, sieving and grading of tea, and the comprehensive tour culminates with an authentic tea tasting experience.
Guests of Thotalagala will be granted exclusive access to the factory and the bungalow which was Sir Thomas Lipton’s residence from 1890 to 1910.
Lipton’s Seat
Located on the top of the Poonagala hill near the Dambetenna tea factory, this is quite literally the point from which the Scottish tea baron would often proudly survey his tea plantations.
On a clear day, the point offers a spectacular view of the Uva, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Eastern provinces including lakes and mountain ranges all the way to the Hambanthota harbor on the southern coast.
The hike to the point through lush tea plantations is a must for the energetic, though you can also opt to hop into a bus or three wheeler, or drive up in the comfort of the bungalow vehicle.
St.Benedict’s Monastery, Adisham
Once the home of tea planter Sir Thomas Lester Villiers, St Benedict’s Monastery, Adisham is now one of only 18 monasteries in the world belonging to the Sylvestrine Congregation, a suborder of the Benedictine fraternity founded in the 13th century.
Visitors can stroll around the monastery’s enchanting English country cottage gardens, and also view the ancient but beautifully preserved building’s living room and library.
The monks are famous for their jams and jellies and these are available in a small shop on the property. All the produce is directly from the monastery’s lovely gardens and orchards.
Diyaluma Falls
At 720ft high, Diyaluma Falls is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Diyaluma is the site of local folklore. As told by famed Sri Lankan historian, Dr. R. L. Brohier, a young chieftain who was banished to the highlands was attempting to reunite with his beloved.
Since all the passes were heavily guarded, he tried to haul her up via the escarpment, on a rope made of twisted creepers. However, this attempt ended in tragedy when she was fatally dashed against the rocks.
It is said that the Gods took pity on this tragic end and caused a stream of water to gush from the mountain, veiling the site in a watery light, hence the falls name – Diyaluma, which can be translated from the Sinhala as “liquid light”.
Horton Plains National Park
In the shadow of the island’s second and third highest mountains lies Horton Plains, a mystical undulating plateau over 2000m high. An excellent spot for hiking, the plains feature a diversity of landscape and rich variety of wildlife including leopard, sambar, and the endemic purple-faced langur.
Endemic highland birds include the dull-blue flycatcher, Sri Lanka white-eye, and yellow-eared bulbul can also be seen. The plateau comes to a sudden end at World’s End, a sheer precipice with a 1050m drop.
The hike back takes the scenic route past Baker’s Falls. Early morning visits are best, offering a chance to enjoy both the view and the wildlife.
Nuwara Eliya
Just a 90minute drive from Haputale, Nuwara Eliya means “city on the plain” or “city of light”, and at an altitude of 1,868m, is overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the highest mountain in Sri Lanka. The city was founded by explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, and is famous for its cool climate.
Still referred to as ‘Little England’, Nuwara Eliya served as a sanctuary for British civil servants and planters in colonial times, since it offered the perfect setting for fox, deer and elephant hunting as well as polo, golf and cricket.
Considered to be one of the important locations for tea production in Sri Lanka, the slow-growing tea bushes of this highland region produce some of the world’s finest orange pekoe tea.
There are many places worth visiting in Nuwara Eliya including Pedro Tea estate, Hakgala Gardens, Lovers Leap, Seetha Amman Temple, Galway’s Land National Park and Lake Gregory.
Bird watchers should make a point to visit Victoria Park during the quieter times of the day, since it offers an excellent opportunity for seeing species such as the Indian blue robin, the Kashmir flycatcher and the pied or scaly thrush.
