Dutch House Bandarawela

We visited the Dutch House as part of our Sri Lanka trip and whilst we had been used to staying in hotels, this perfect spot proved just what we needed. After enjoying the famous train ride, we arrived at the Dutch House. The architecture of the building is incredible. We felt so lucky that we had all of that space to ourselves. We received a pleasant greeting and enjoyed a traditional Sri Lankan dinner. Afterwards we played some of the board games that are kept in the guest room. We had a fantastic night sleep and felt reenergised for the next day. Breakfast outside in the garden was an absolute treat and I wish I could spend every morning like that! After another fun day hiking mini Adam’s Peak and zip lining by the Ravana Pool Club in Ella, we were welcomed back to another delicious meal. The staff could not do enough for us. This is a great place for some rest and relaxation, away from the busy streets but not too far away from attractions.

We spent a couple of nights at the Dutch House in Bandarawela with friends from the U.K. It was our third visit and we were not disappointed. The quiet serenity of the place was just as we remembered. Karnan, the majordomo, was his usual cheery self and greeted us like old friends, which I suppose we are. His service is efficient, impeccable and unobtrusive. Chef Nelson served up excellent Sri Lankan and Western cuisine on the two nights we spent there. His Rice & Curry lunch, spiced just right for our tastes, was another highlight. The gardens around the house, tended beautifully by Mahesan the gardener, were lush and vibrant as was the herb and vegetable garden. DHB proved, yet again, to be an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and for our friends, a much-needed respite from a week of touring, to recharge mind and body before heading down to the south coast.

As another stop on our honeymoon, our stay at the Dutch House was absolutely impeccable. This villa can sleep 4 people so you have the entire house to yourself as a honeymooning couple, as we did. Kannan took incredible care of us throughout our stay and couldn't do enough for us. His kindness, thoughtfulness and service was first class. He was just lovely to chat to, he was funny and we really enjoyed the time we had with him. The food was INCREDIBLE and we enjoyed absolutely everything we ate and drank. The Sri Lankan breakfast was stunning and everything was prepared by the chef from the kitchen garden which Kannan took time to show us. The fruit, juices at breakfasts were my absolute faveourite and in the afternoon we came back for tea with Sri Lankan local tea and traditional treats/fruit. We even brought back some watermelon from the fruit market one day that they cut it up for us to eat with our tea. The grounds are beautifully kept by the gardener and it is such a picturesque place high above Bandarawela. Kannan went out of his way to look after us and even went into town one evening to fetch some Arrack for us to try as we had never had it before (its lethal stuff!) We wouldnt hesitate to return. Thank you Kanna and the staff for lookin after us so well - we will be back! Kristina & Shanta

The Dutch House is a place to rest and renew after busy sight seeing in Sri Lanka. The grounds are stunning with beautiful plantings and potted flowers. The House itself is beautiful and very unique in style and decor. Kamman, the host, is a beautiful human being who takes the best care of his guests and seems to do so with sincere pleasure. The Chef cooks up wonderful breakfasts and dinners. We have been here for three nights, and we are sorry to leave this special place.