Colonial sophistication at the Manor House Boutique Villa

Situated in the Uva hills of Bandarawela, the Manor House Boutique Villa exudes old world charm in a beautiful setting. Opening its doors recently to welcome guests, the Manor House is an exclusive private villa that prides on excellent service amidst elegant interiors and modern comforts.

Words Udeshi Amarasinghe

The stately property is located on a small hill, but is not visible to the road. Total privacy is ensured with no public access. Initially conceived as a holiday home for owners Durairajah Prithiviraj and wife Devika, the idea for Manor House evolved as design progressed, thus the initial concept was changed to build an exclusive private villa for guests. The entire property has been newly designed and built.

As you approach the Manor House Boutique Villa, the resplendent garden and brilliant white building is reminiscent of an English manor house. You are greeted with a warm welcome and as you step into the premises the elegance of the interior is soon apparent. The interior, which has been carefully curated by the owners, has been beautifully furnished with paintings adding splashes of colour. While much of the furniture has been custom-made for the property, unique pieces selected during their travels overseas have been placed in a stylish manner. The fire places add character to this period style villa. The staircase is entirely of wood with floral motif design on the balustrade.

In terms of bedrooms, there are five; two doubles, two twin rooms and one master bedroom suite. All the rooms have beautiful views of the surroundings. While the brilliant white walls have been maintained, blue and green colours have been introduced alternatively to the double rooms through lamps, paintings, curtains and bed linen. The bathrooms too are in soft tones and are completely tiled giving a textured finish. The master bedroom suite is regal in its appearance with warm shades used in its interiors. This room has a walk-in closet as well. All rooms have televisions and modern amenities. As Bandarawela has a cool climate, hot water bottles and heaters are provided on request.

The living area upstairs furnished with English style upholstered chairs and settees, opens out to a large terrace providing a quiet space for recreation with brilliant views and is ideal to enjoy a cup of tea or simply relax with a book.

The dining room, which is also the restaurant, is elegant with custom- made wooden furniture, beautiful mirrors and paintings as well as regal sculptures and ornaments with a classic fireplace. The in-house chef at the Manor House prepares both Sri Lankan and Western cuisine for breakfast and dinner, which can be selected from an à la carte menu. A fully equipped pantry too has been availed for those who wish to prepare their own meals. However, Prithiviraj stresses that guests are always welcome to make suggestions or request any type of meal they require as providing a holiday with comfort is their ultimate aim. For groups of more than six, barbecues can also be arranged. All the reservations are inclusive of breakfast and dinner. The rates include taxes.

The gardens are green and beautiful with flowers and well-manicured lawns. This also provides outdoor tables and seating for guests to have snacks and relax; its also a great place for a barbecue. At the back of the property, a small organic garden provides fresh produce to the Manor House kitchen.

The Manor House Boutique Villa is exclusive for in-house guests and prior booking is required. The villa is ideal for couples as well as adults, where either individual rooms or the entire property can be reserved. The maximum number of occupants at any given time would be ten. As Prithiviraj explains, the Manor House Boutique Villa is a place for a quiet holiday. Due to its location, guests can also proceed to Ella, Badulla, Nuwara Eliya, Wellawaya and Kataragama after their stay. Furthemore, with Bandarawela having many interesting sites to visit, the boutique villa is a place where they come to rest and relax because of its peaceful atmosphere.

Poonegala Road, Bandarawela
T: (+94 57) 223 3174
F: (+94 57) 223 3171
reservations@manorhousevilla.com
manorhousevilla.com