Daily Mirror - Print Edition

Hillcot bungalow - retreat in little England

17 Jan 2013 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}      


With the cooler climatic conditions continues in Colombo and other suburbs even after chilly festive season, hills are getting closer to zero.

Nuwara Eliya experiencing the fascinating cold season in January attracts hundreds of overseas travellers along with Sri Lankans, who love to enjoy a glimpse of the European climate.

EAP Hotels have embarked on the burgeoning hospitality industry in Sri Lanka with elaborate plans for expansion and its latest venture was opening up a private property in Nuwara Eliya into a holiday bungalow.

The cosy and comfortable Hillcot Bungalow is close to the Nuwara Eliya town and is an ideal retreat for those looking for an idyllic cool holiday away from the hustle and the bustle of the city.

Hillcot Bungalow, located just one kilometre away from Nuwara Eliya town, is a mark of a splendour bringing to life the image of an ancient palace in the hills designed to mirror the heritage of Sri Lanka's Colonial influence.

Located in the picturesque surroundings overlooking the Gregory's Lake and the iconic race course is surrounded by blooming flower gardens and lush greenery.

‘Though it has the colonial influence of luxury living, we always keep the Sri Lnkan touch when it comes to service. The bungalow team is always ready to serve its guests with a Sri Lankan smile in traditional manner' said Prasanna Ekanayake, the Manger of the Hillcot Bungalow.

The bungalow with six well furnished rooms with all the modern amenities including TV and Wi-Fi is now open for holidaymakers.

Tastefully appointed with modern conveniences, Hillcot Bungalow also retains its oldworld charms and comforts, including roaring fireplaces in the living and dining rooms. All bedrooms feature king-sized beds, elegant teak floors, and attached bathrooms with hot water showers. Some of the rooms have colonial style four-legged cast iron bathtubs.

The large expanse of front garden provides guests an opportunity to unwind themselves enjoying the panoramic view around the bungalow.

The guests could enjoy homely meals prepared by an experienced cook or they could order via a la carte their favourite dishes.

‘We have facilities to cater any kind of cuisine including Sri Lankan dishes. Most of the guests set their choice on Sri Lankan meals. But Western and Chinese dishes too are popular with our visitors' Prasanna added.

Organic and fresh vegetables picked from its garden are used as much as possible when preparing the meals. Guests could also enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages ordered from the menu.

The CEO of EAP Hotels Ronald Perera said that the Hillcot Bungalow is popular both among foreign and Sri Lankan holidaymakers and known as a luxury retreat specially for families and depending on the requirement the entire bungalow could be reserved by a group or rooms could be booked individually as well.

'Excursions could be organised to Horton Plains, Hakgala Gardens and a number of other historical, religious and tourist sites from the bungalow; he said

The EAP Group's Chairperson Mrs. Soma Edirisinghe a stickler for detail and lover of nature had ensured that the bungalow's garden won the award for the best flower garden at the competition organised by the Nuwara Eliya Municipality during the April season and Hillcot bungalow has won it on several occasions which is a feather in our cap.