Kirchhayn Bungalow
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East Hill Country Bandarawela |
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The bungalow is not alone in its rejuvenation; the delightful 4 acre gardens have also benefited. A swimming pool, a grass tennis court - the first grass tennis court in Sri Lanka, playing area for children and an imaginative pitch and putt green have been mocked into the garden providing some fun but do not expect Wimbledon and the Ryder Cup. The landscaped areas are well tended and colourful -an ideal place to have afteroon tea or relax and listen to the birdlife. Kirchhayn stands at 1400m. above sea level, so though the days are warm and sunny (20-26c) the early mornings and evenings are chilly (12-16c) and a sweater or light fleece is welcome. This villa is ideally located for a stay between enjoying the beaches and water sports of the south west and heading for the hills and culture of Kandy. There is so much to enjoy and explore here that the owners have requested that guests stay a minimum of two nights.
The five large bedrooms have either private courtyards or stunning views over the garden. The en suite bathrooms now have 'state of the art' showers, separate large baths and designer basins and toilets. Your host, Erol, is Australian but considered a local as his past 25 years have been amongst the tea and coffe trade and as such he is very knowledgable on the countryside and plantations.
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Kirchhayn is the only original Planter's Bungalow on a tea estate which has been owned and operated by the same family for generations. After some years of operating as a modest guest house, a massive renovation has transformed it into a modern and comfortable boutique villa, introducing new bathrooms and bedrooms whilst not destroying the gentle and historic ambiance of the house.
Inside Kirchhayn the atmosphere is restful and comfortable, and guest feedback praises the food and the service. Four public guest rooms include a quiet, cosy study / library with many interesting books on local birds, wild life and tea planting and its history. The large sitting room is a comfortable place to relax in by day, or congregate in the early evening for pre-dinner drinks and leads to the main verandah which has spectacular views over the garden. Meals may be taken here instead of the formal dinng room and it is a wonderful spot for bird watching. The drawing room with its open fire is a cosy venue for after dinner conversation with your fellow guests.
