THE DUTCH HOUSE - BANDARAWELA

The 18th century Cape-Dutch style architecture has the character and feel of a fine 18th century house and exhibits the colonial charm for which The Dutch House-Bandarawela is becoming renowned, successfully combining period features in keeping with the Dutch past, yet providing comfortable bedrooms with sensibly designed modern bathrooms. The long open verandah overlooking the garden and the mountains ensures that guests can enjoy their complimentary morning coffee or afternoon tea and cakes whilst gazing at the flora and fauna.

The owners have gone to great lengths to ensure an authentic look by using antique doors and windows, including a satinwood and ebony staircase, all reclaimed from old colonial houses in Sri Lanka.

The stylish reception room is utilized for both relaxing and dining. All the rooms feature fine furniture and pictures in keeping with the Dutch style. At the far end of the reception room is a large 18th century style log burning fireplace, inset with beautiful Delft tiles, idea for those cool winter evenings.

The antique satinwood and ebony staircase leading from the reception room, takes you to the landing with its fine hardwood floor that continues into the three large comfortable bedrooms with high beamed ceilings, all with views of the gardens and surrounding mountains. Two of the bedrooms are furnished with queen size four-poster beds and en suite bathrooms with large walk-in shower-rooms, and the third bedroom with two single antique beds, including one in solid satinwood. All three bathrooms, two of which are en suite, are fitted with high quality sanitary ware including bidets. All beds are fitted with very comfortable mattresses and duck down pillows hygienically protected with pillow protectors.

To complete your day, there is a private cinema with a HD projector, an 8ft wide screen and a good selection of DVDs for viewing and also an attractive indoor pool with spar seats.