Ashburnham Estate, Elkaduwa
Sri Lanka, Kandy & Hill Country

Mahatenne House - Ashburnham Estate, with its picturesque setting, provides a great value opportunity to experience the delights of the Sri Lankan tea country while being within striking distance of Kandy and the cultural triangle. This former tea planters house is situated on a western slope of the Knuckles foothills, providing panoramic views over the lower peaks of the western hill country. This is a quiet and unique place that despite its proximity to cultural hubs is completely off the tourist trail.

The house, dating from the 1930s, has seven simple and good sized rooms with a large wooden furnished and floored living area. The front terrace provides a fantastic setting to enjoy the often stunning sunsets. There is a swimming pool, complete with slide, and a slightly 'rough around the edges' tennis court. Mountain bikes, 75 acres of working tea estate to explore and two powerful waterfalls and their pools to swim in make this perfect for the more active visitor.

Carol, the English manager, combined with a Sri Lankan chef provide great home cooking, whether a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry or a more English alternative. Food is made in consultation with guests and eaten on the large dining table or out on the terrace. Carol and her local staff provide a friendly and relaxed service.

Kandy and its attractions are an hours drive away, while most of the cultural triangles sites can be reached within a day trip, including Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla, providing an alternative to staying within that region.

Comfort - This is what we would describe as our standard category. These will be decent 3/4* hotels providing a really good level of service. We would generally expect them to be providing a little something extra, whether it is character, service or excellent facilities.

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