7 Briefs
A private highland residency combining the heritage of Ceylon tea with an exclusive gemstone masterclass.
The feeling of this journey
Seven days at Ceylon Tea Trails, with guided plantation walks, private tea tastings and an exclusive Ceylon gemstone masterclass.
Moments along the way
Hatton · Private estate experience
Explore the emerald tea plantations of the Bogawantalawa Valley through privately guided walks, discovering traditional tea cultivation, the lives of estate communities and the heritage of Sri Lanka's celebrated tea industry.
Hatton · Private acquisitions
Discover the fascinating origins of Ceylon gemstones through an exclusive masterclass, hands-on evaluation and a discreet private viewing of carefully selected gemstones.
Hatton · Tea connoisseur experience
Experience the art of Ceylon tea through an intimate, expert-led tasting and a guided visit to the historic Dunkeld Tea Factory, exploring the traditions, craftsmanship and distinctive flavours behind the island's finest teas.
Your route through Ceylon
Seven days of tea heritage, gemstone appreciation and refined highland luxury.
Day 1
Airport reception followed by a private chauffeured luxury SUV journey through Sri Lanka's scenic countryside to the mist-covered tea estates of Hatton.
Settle into your elegant colonial-era planter's bungalow, surrounded by rolling tea plantations and breathtaking mountain landscapes, with personalised butler service and a warm highland welcome.
Unwind within the peaceful estate surroundings, enjoying the cool mountain air, panoramic valley views and a relaxed introduction to the refined hospitality of Ceylon Tea Trails.
Day 2
Explore the lush tea-covered hills of the Bogawantalawa Valley with a dedicated estate guide, discovering the cultivation of Ceylon tea and the traditions of life on a working plantation.
Gain insight into traditional tea-plucking techniques, the care of tea bushes and the fascinating journey of tea leaves from the plantation to the finished product.
Return to your bungalow for a traditional afternoon tea served amidst the gardens, followed by an unhurried evening overlooking the surrounding highlands.
Day 3
An exclusive private session exploring Ceylon gemstone origins, rare colour variations and hands-on evaluation using professional jeweller's loupes.
A discreet, appointment-only presentation of carefully selected gemstones, with opportunities to examine their distinctive characteristics and discuss individual collecting interests.
Engage in one-to-one discussions about gemstone selection, quality, certification and potential bespoke jewellery commissions, within the privacy of your Ceylon Tea Trails retreat.
Day 4
Visit the historic Dunkeld Tea Factory with an experienced tea planter for a guided introduction to traditional tea production, from freshly harvested leaves to the delicate processes of withering, rolling, oxidation and drying.
Enjoy a privately arranged tasting session, discovering the subtle differences in aroma, strength and flavour across carefully selected Ceylon teas, guided by an experienced tea specialist.
Return to your bungalow for a peaceful afternoon, with time to enjoy the estate gardens, swimming pool and sweeping views of the surrounding tea country.
Day 5
Venture along picturesque estate trails with a private guide, passing through rolling tea fields, historic planter pathways and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Bogawantalawa Valley.
Experience a refined interpretation of the classic planter's tiffin lunch, thoughtfully arranged in a scenic estate setting surrounded by the beauty of Sri Lanka's highlands.
Return to the elegant surroundings of your bungalow for an unhurried evening, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and timeless charm of a colonial tea estate.
Day 6
Begin the day with a relaxed breakfast overlooking the mist-covered tea plantations, followed by time to appreciate the serene landscapes and gentle rhythms of estate life.
Enjoy a day at your own pace, with opportunities for a gentle plantation stroll, relaxation in the bungalow gardens or a peaceful moment overlooking Castlereagh Lake.
Conclude your highland residency with an intimate, privately arranged dining experience, featuring a specially curated menu inspired by the flavours of Sri Lanka and the traditions of Ceylon tea.
Departure · Day 7
Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at Ceylon Tea Trails, taking in the tranquil mountain scenery and reflecting on the tea heritage, gemstone discoveries and memorable experiences of your journey.
Private chauffeured luxury SUV transport from Hatton to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward departure.
At your table
Menus can be customized to your tastes, dietary preferences and preferred cuisines, in consultation with your private chef.
01The menu
An intimate farewell dinner features a specially curated menu inspired by the flavours of Sri Lanka and the traditions of Ceylon tea, thoughtfully composed for your party.
02The ritual
Return from the tea fields to a traditional afternoon tea in the bungalow gardens, with time to savour the gentle rhythms and timeless hospitality of a planter’s estate.
A favourite kind of stay? A particular interest in gems? Tell us what matters to you, and we’ll build the journey around it.
Bespoke Sri Lanka Residencies & Private Gemstone Expeditions starting from $5,000 per guest.
Book tourThe residency brings together a private retreat, gemstone discovery and time to restore. From your arrival to your final evening, the experiences below form the heart of your 7 days.
Your residency includes:
Purchases and personal choices beyond the residency are accounted for separately, giving you the freedom to decide what to add.
Packages start from $5,000 per guest.
Pricing depends on your dates, accommodation, room category and chosen experiences. The price and final inclusions are confirmed before your residency.
Places to slow down
Historic planter residences, mist-covered tea estates and refined colonial hospitality in the heart of Sri Lanka's highlands.
Hatton · Luxury tea estate retreat
Global rating
9.5/10
Restored tea planters’ bungalows in the Bogawantalawa Valley, with colonial interiors, butler service and tranquil views across the surrounding tea estates.
An elegantly appointed colonial-style room featuring refined period furnishings, plush bedding and a spacious bathroom with a freestanding bathtub and walk-in rain shower.
A charming suite featuring spacious interiors, a private garden area and an elegant bathroom with a freestanding bathtub and rain shower, offering a peaceful connection to the surrounding estate.
A generously proportioned heritage suite featuring elegant furnishings, a four-poster king bed and a luxurious bathroom, combining traditional planter-era charm with modern comforts.
An exclusive, secluded one-bedroom residence offering exceptional privacy, elegant living spaces and tranquil lake views, ideal for an intimate highland retreat.
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