Well-known for its charming mountainous beauty and mild spring-like climate, Nuwara Eliya is the most popular vacation spot in Sri Lanka. It is filled with ancient colonial-type British buildings which are now serving as major hotels and public places. Adorned with these fairy tale cottages and country houses, Nuwara Eliya offers spellbinding sightseeing opportunities to visitors.
Called as “Little England” in Sri Lanka, this lovely city is nestled in lush green mountain ranges covered with tea plantations at more than 2,000 m altitude. It is the coolest town in the country with temperatures ranging between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. Thus, the climate is so relaxing and chilly to the optimum level of comfort.
The most popular attractions in Nuwara Eliya are Lake Gregory Park, Victoria Park, and Hakgala Botanical Garden. Moreover, you can go waterfall hunting or hiking and trekking on tea trails to have a look at the serene beauty of endless tea plantations.
For those who are vacationing in this lovely city, there are a number of premium hotels for rest and rejuvenation. These are the top 20 holiday resorts in Nuwara Eliya which are perfect to relax and unwind in a cool climate.
1. The Grand Hotel
Grand Hotel is an iconic landmark that tops the list of best hotels in Nuwara Eliya. It has a long history dating back to 130 years. Enchanted with the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings, this hotel was built by Sir Edward Barnes, Governor of Ceylon during the era from 1830 to 1850. The legendary Grand Hotel is maintaining its original British Colonial architecture up to date. It has an elegantly landscaped courtyard for relaxing. As well, it is well known for exceptional hospitality that has surpassed the expectations of many visitors.
2. Nuwara Eliya Hill Club
Nuwara Eliya Hill Club is an old golf club spread on 26 acres which was established in 1876. Later, the building was modified to a two-story grey stone building. It has typical English structures including wooden staircases, high roofs, hardwood floors, fireplaces, and antique furniture. Currently, it is operating as a club and hotel, with 40 rooms including two suites, together with three family chalets. These luxury rooms with all modern facilities give an ultimate comfortable stay to guests.
3. Heritance Tea Factory
Heritance Tea Factory is an old tea factory turned into a superb hotel set amid endless tea plantations. It is among the best hotels in Nuwara Eliya, as well as top ecotourism hotspots in the country. The hotel features a luxurious spa, mini golf, and Billiards in true colonial style. The Kenmare restaurant serves Eastern and Western dishes. Moreover, Dining on the Wheels offers the guests to dine inside a train carriage featuring Western and European meals. Visitors can check out the Pedro Tea Factory, which is a popular Nuwara Eliya attraction.
4. Kent Cottage
Located 2.6 km from Gregory Lake, Kent Cottage offers wonderful accommodation in Nuwara Eliya city. It is quite close to major attractions and has a restaurant, hot tub, and spa on-site. Rated with 4 stars, this wonderful hotel offers panoramic views from balconies. At Kent Cottage you will find a restaurant serving international cuisine. Breakfast includes Full English/Irish, Asian, and vegetarian options.
5. Lake Infinity Luxury Condos
Lake Infinity Luxury Condos apartment is located within 3 km from the popular Ramayana sight Seetha Amman Temple. The Gregory Park a 15-minute walk from the venue. Some popular tourist attractions including the dessert restaurant Adma Agro Fresh Strawberry Foods and Hakgala Botanical Garden are located within a short ride away. If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings. You can enjoy canoeing and horseback riding provided for guests.
6. Jetwing St Andrews
From the best Jetwing hotels in Nuwara Eliya, St. Andrew’s is the most popular hotel among visitors. This is a 19th-century colonial mansion turned into a superb hotel. It gives a welcoming nature of a home with intricately renewed rooms. All 56 rooms are fitted with modern amenities to suit your lifestyle for a memorable stay at this hill country home. There are 4 distinct room types, including superior rooms, deluxe rooms, and special suites. The exclusive Gem Suite is the jewel of this stately home.
7. Jetwing Warwick Gardens
Jetwing Warwick Gardens is one of the most beautiful holiday resorts in Nuwara Eliya. Surrounded by charming farmlands in Ambewela, this is the home of a Scottish tea planter set amidst verdant hillside scenery. Currently, it has been refurbished with a range of exquisitely designed rooms. The rooms come with a dressing area, sofa, and balcony. The hotel serves an English breakfast prepared with produce from the garden. It also offers a variety of teas and wines.
8. The Firs
The Firs is a heritage bungalow located in a picturesque hillock in Nuwara Eliya, just a 5-minute walk from Lake Gregory. The original bungalow was built nearly two centuries ago, but it has been renovated to two luxurious and spacious suites and three deluxe rooms. Each of the two suites has a private dining room, a bathroom with a jacuzzi, and a fireplace. Overlooking peaceful views away, The Firs will serve local, Indian, and continental meals.
9. Oliphant Boutique Villa
Oliphant Boutique Villa by Amaya is one of the best hotels in Nuwara Eliya city. Surrounded by lush tea estates, beautifully kept gardens, and colorful flower beds, it is a place where you’ll find a comfy stay in Nuwara Eliya. It is located just 6 km from Gregory Lake and quite convenient to reach the major attractions. Breakfast includes continental, Full English/Irish, and Asian options. You can visit one of the most ancient churches in Sri Lanka, Anglican Holy Trinity Church in 10 minutes drive away.
10. CheRiz Boutique Villa
The CheRiz in Nuwara Eliya is the latest icon of small luxury resorts in Sri Lanka. Located only 2 km from Nuwara Eliya, the hotel offers views of the mountain and tea plantation. It comprises eight rooms with elegant furnishings made for the finest standard for luxury accommodation. Each room is unique and exudes its own exquisite ambiance, with all modern luxuries. Providing gracious butler service and gourmet cuisine, this is a home away from home.
11. Langdale Boutique Hotel
Langdale Boutique Hotel by Amaya is one of the most sought-after hotels in Nuwara Eliya. It offers 13 luxury rooms with amazing hillside views, letting you enjoy a perfect getaway with your loved ones. This is an elegantly decorated hotel that recalls the colonial era, with dark wooden flooring and classic furniture. Guests can go hiking in the scenic area, relax in the sauna, or enjoy a massage at the Ayurvedic Spa. The hotel’s restaurant offers international cuisine, ranging from French to Sri Lankan.
12. Hilldale Retreat
Nestled in the leafy green mountains of Nuwara Eliya around 12 km from Gregory Lake, Hilldale Retreat is a newly-built establishment aimed at providing stylish accommodation for the guests. With superb attention to detail and the needs of the guests, each detail has been passionately chosen in each room. Some units have a balcony with mountain views while some have infinity pool views. Guests can enjoy a continental or a Full English/Irish breakfast where the restaurant serves Chinese, British, and Asian cuisine.
13. Queenswood Cottage
If you’re looking for a charming hotel in Nuwara Eliya, look no further than The Queenswood Cottage. Located near the shores of Lake Gregory, Queenswood Cottage is an oasis that gives you space to be yourself. Surrounded by exposed wood beams, the rustic-style rooms are simply stunning. The restaurant serves international and local food on request. Guests can also enjoy BBQ facilities and outdoor dining.
14. The Ramp
The Ramp Hotel offers guests a holiday in the cool climes of Nuwara Eliya in a stylish, boutique hotel setting. Located 2 km from Gregory Lake, this is a luxurious retreat with breathtaking mountain views. It features 7 elegant rooms, fine dining, and adventure activities. A continental breakfast is available daily at the hotel. The restaurant serves European, Indian, Asian, Chinese, American, British and French cuisine.
15. The Wind Castle
The Wind Castle is an ancient Scottish-style castle set atop a hill offering stunning views of the surrounding lush green mountains of Nuwara Eliya. It faces the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Mount Pedro. The constant flow of a fresh, cool, and gentle wind through the mountains is where the hotel derives its name from. The Castle offers six varieties of double rooms. Family Club is a large and homely room for the entire family with two adjacent bedrooms. Royal Rest is a luxurious suite for families or honeymooners.
16. W15 Lake Gregory
W15 Lake Gregory is a luxury boutique bungalow that overlooks Lake Gregory on one side and the Galway National Park on the other. Escape into an awe-inspiring world where the crisp mountain air sweeps across the most beautiful space, a realm of colonial architecture merging with redefined luxury. A continental, Full English/Irish or Italian breakfast is available each morning at the property. The restaurant serves Chinese, Indian, and Pizza cuisine.
17. The Montfort
The Montfort is a beautiful apartment with two rooms each with a double bed. This charming retreat embodies timeless elegance and natural beauty in the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya. Just 1.2 km from Gregory Lake, it features stunning mountain views. A continental, Full English/Irish or Asian breakfast is available every morning. This family-friendly apartment provides a comfortable experience with stunning morning views.
18. Moon Plains Luxury Apartments
located just 1.5 km from Gregory Lake, Moon Plains Luxury Apartments features quiet street views, and a terrace offering inner courtyard views. Some units include a balcony with mountain views. It is placed within a 10-minute drive from the popular Ramayana Trail Seetha Amman Sita Temple. Both bicycle and car rental services are available at the apartment. You can enjoy various activities including cycling, hiking, horse riding, and fishing. Hakgala Botanical Garden is 6 km from Moon Plains Luxury Apartments.
19. La Grande Villa
Rated with 5 stars, La Grande Villa provides high-quality accommodation in Nuwara Eliya. It is located 1.5 km from Gregory Lake and just closer to Mackwoods Tea Museum. It features a garden, a Jacuzzi, and an aqua park. A continental, Full English/Irish or Italian breakfast is available daily. The restaurant serves Indian, local, and Asian cuisine. A special menu and children’s menu are also on-site to entertain the kids. An array of activities can be enjoyed, including fishing, horseback riding, and hiking.
20. Galway Heights
Just 2.5 km from Gregory Lake, Galway Heights Hotel is nestled among the rich greenery of Nuwara Eliya. It is a heavenly hideaway as one of the best 4-star hotels in the city. The comfortable, stylish décor of the rooms and delicately designed living areas add to the warmth of the entire hotel. The hospitality is complemented by the delectable culinary specialties. The bar serves cocktails and other drinks beneath the trees. You can enjoy the wonderful views of rose gardens and misty mountains in the distance.
To sum up, these are the top 20 hotels in Nuwara Eliya and you can select one of them to stay in this gorgeous Hill Country city. All of these hotels are located in scenic places with breathtaking views to enjoy your holidays. Happy traveling to Nuwara Eliya for you all!
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