Accommodation Archives

A Landmark Year for Sri Lanka Tourism

Sri Lanka has welcomed over 1.9 million tourists by early November 2025.

This marks the highest number since 2018.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority expects 2.4 million arrivals by year-end.
This surge reflects the island’s growing popularity among global travellers.

Holidaymakers are choosing Sri Lanka for its culture, nature, and warm hospitality.

Why 2025 Is Breaking All Records

October 2025 saw 165,193 visitors, the highest ever for that month.

India led the way, followed by the UK, Russia, China, and Germany.
November started strong, with over 32,000 tourists in the first five days.
Average daily arrivals reached 6,563, showing steady growth.

Sri Lanka is clearly back on the global travel map.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa: Your Ideal Holiday Stay

Located in the lush hills of Uva Province, GlenMyu offers peace and privacy.

Our boutique villa is perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers.

Far enough away but close enough to take in the sights of the busy tourist town of Ella.

Three guest bedrooms make this property exclusive and it is booked up early during the busier tourist seasons on the island.

Guests enjoy spacious rooms, stunning views, and personalised service.

Food is an important part of what we do and guests have written great reviews of the food Ru and the team serve.

We are close to nature trails(The Pekoe Trail), waterfalls (Bambarakanda and Diyaluma), and cultural sites such as Buduruwagala Rock Carvings.

GlenMyu is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquillity and charm.

Book Early to Secure Your Dream Accommodation

With record tourist numbers, accommodation is filling up fast.

We recommend booking early, especially during peak seasons.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has seen increased bookings even in quieter months.

Sri Lanka is now a destination for all seasons.
Avoid disappointment by reserving your stay well in advance.

Sri Lanka Is Now a Year-Round Destination

Traditionally, tourists visited during winter and spring.

Now, visitors come throughout the year for varied experiences.
GlenMyu welcomes guests in every season with consistent comfort.

Rain or shine, our villa offers a relaxing retreat.
Sri Lanka’s climate and diversity make it ideal year-round.

Contact GlenMyu Directly for the Best Rates

To secure the best rates, contact us directly.

Reach us via WhatsApp at 00 94 752 999 272.

Direct bookings ensure personalised service and exclusive offers.
We are happy to answer questions and help plan your stay.
Booking direct is the smartest way to holiday at GlenMyu.

Final Thoughts: Make 2025 Your Sri Lankan Escape

Sri Lanka’s tourism boom makes 2025 the perfect time to visit.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers a peaceful base for your adventure.

Enjoy nature, culture, and comfort in one unforgettable stay.

Book early, travel smart, and experience Sri Lanka at its best.

We look forward to welcoming you to GlenMyu soon.

Stay at GlenMyu to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more.

A Landmark Year for Sri Lanka Tourism Read More »

A Family of Six Visiting Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A Family of Six Visiting Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a wonderful destination for families. It offers culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re travelling as a family of six, finding the right accommodation is key. GlenMyu Boutique Villa is ideal.

Spacious and Comfortable for Families

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two double bedrooms and one triple bedroom. It comfortably sleeps six guests.

There’s also a sofa bed in the lounge. This is used when one family books the entire villa.

Privacy and Peace of Mind

Booking all three rooms gives your family exclusive access to the estate. No other guests will share your space.

Ru and Michael live upstairs with a separate entrance. They respect your privacy and won’t disturb you.

Enjoy the Private Swimming Pool

The swimming pool is yours to enjoy. No need to share or wait your turn.

Children love splashing around. Parents can relax poolside with a book or a cool drink.

Lounges with Stunning Views

The lounges offer breathtaking views of the hills and forests. They’re perfect for family chats or quiet moments.

There are no TVs at GlenMyu. However, WiFi is available if needed.

Disconnect to Reconnect

Most guests choose to disconnect. The natural beauty around the villa replaces screens and distractions.

Families often say they feel more connected after their stay. Nature helps everyone relax and bond.

Dining Together at GlenMyu

Ru and her team prepare delicious meals for guests. Dining together strengthens family bonds.

Meals are served in the villa’s dining area. The food is fresh, local, and full of flavour.

Garden Tours with Ru

Ru offers guided garden tours around the estate. Learn about local plants and enjoy the peaceful setting.

Children love exploring the garden. It’s educational and fun for all ages.

Sri Lankan Cookery Demonstration

Join Ru and her mother for a cookery demo. Discover traditional Sri Lankan recipes and cooking techniques.

Afterwards, enjoy the dishes you helped prepare. It’s a fun and tasty activity for the whole family.

A Safe and Peaceful Environment

GlenMyu Boutique Villa is safe and quiet. It’s perfect for families looking to relax and recharge.

The estate is surrounded by nature. Birds, trees, and fresh air create a calming atmosphere.

Explore Sri Lanka from GlenMyu

Ella is a short drive from the villa. Visit waterfalls, tea plantations, and cultural sites nearby.

Return to the villa after your adventures. Enjoy a swim, a meal, and the peaceful surroundings.

Ideal for Multi-Generational Holidays

GlenMyu suits families of all ages. Grandparents, parents, and children can enjoy time together.

The layout supports both privacy and togetherness. Everyone has space to relax and enjoy the holiday.

Book Direct for the Best Rates

To get the best rates, contact GlenMyu Boutique Villa directly. Use WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272.

Booking direct ensures personalised service. You’ll get the best advice and support for your stay.

What Families Say About GlenMyu

Guests praise the peaceful setting, warm hospitality, and delicious food. Many return for another stay.

Families love the privacy and space. Children enjoy the garden, pool, and cookery activities.

A Unique Family Holiday Experience

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers more than just accommodation. It’s an experience that brings families together.

From garden tours to shared meals, every moment is special. Your holiday will be unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a family holiday in Sri Lanka for six people, GlenMyu Boutique Villa is the perfect choice.

Enjoy privacy, comfort, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. Book direct for the best experience and rates.

Stay at GlenMyu to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

A Family of Six Visiting Sri Lanka Read More »

A Perfect Place for Seven Friends in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A Perfect Place for Seven Friends in Sri Lanka

Looking for a peaceful and private place for a group holiday in Sri Lanka? GlenMyu Boutique Villa is ideal.

It’s a beautiful retreat in the hills, perfect for seven friends to relax, explore, and enjoy time together.

Spacious Accommodation for Groups

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two double bedrooms and one triple bedroom. It comfortably sleeps seven guests.

There’s also a sofa bed in the lounge. This is used when one group books the entire villa.

Privacy and Comfort Guaranteed

When your group books all three rooms, the estate is yours alone. No other guests will share your space.

Ru and Michael live upstairs with a separate entrance. They respect your privacy and won’t disturb you.

Exclusive Use of Facilities

Enjoy the swimming pool without sharing. The lounges are yours to relax in, free from interruptions.

This setup creates a peaceful environment. It’s perfect for unwinding after exploring Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Dining Together at GlenMyu

Ru and her team prepare delicious meals for guests. Dining together strengthens friendships and creates lasting memories.

Meals are served in the villa’s dining area. The food is fresh, local, and full of flavour.

Garden Tours and Nature Walks

Ru offers guided garden tours around the estate. Learn about local plants and enjoy the tranquil setting.

Guests love this experience. It’s relaxing, educational, and a great way to connect with nature.

Sri Lankan Cookery Demonstration

Disconnect and Reconnect

There are no TVs at GlenMyu Boutique Villa. However, WiFi is available if needed.

Most guests choose to disconnect. The views from the bedrooms and lounges are more captivating than any screen.

Nature as Your Entertainment

The villa offers stunning views of the hills and forests. Watch birds, enjoy sunsets, and breathe fresh air.

Guests often say they feel calmer and happier after their stay. Nature helps you recharge and relax.

Ideal for Friend Reunions

GlenMyu Boutique Villa is perfect for reunions. Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or just a catch-up, it works.

The layout supports both privacy and togetherness. Everyone has space to relax and enjoy the holiday.

Explore Sri Lanka Together

Ella is a short drive from GlenMyu. Visit Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, and Ravana Falls.

Return to the villa after your adventures. Enjoy a swim, a meal, and the peaceful surroundings.

Book Direct for the Best Rates

To get the best rates, contact GlenMyu Boutique Villa directly.

Use WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272.

Booking direct ensures personalised service. You’ll get the best advice and support for your stay.

What Guests Say About GlenMyu

Guests praise the peaceful setting, warm hospitality, and delicious food. Many return for another stay.

Groups love the privacy and space. Friends enjoy the garden, pool, and cookery activities together.

A Unique Group Holiday Experience

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers more than just accommodation. It’s an experience that brings people together.

From garden tours to shared meals, every moment is special. Your holiday will be unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip with seven friends, GlenMyu Boutique Villa is the perfect place to stay.

Enjoy privacy, comfort, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. Book direct for the best experience and rates.

Stay at GlenMyu to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

A Perfect Place for Seven Friends in Sri Lanka Read More »

Wake Up Inspired at GlenMyu Boutique Villa

Accommodation, Holiday, Travel / By Mikeez

Wake Inspired at GlenMyu Boutique Villa

Morning inspiration at GlenMyu boutique villa – wake up inspired.

Each morning at GlenMyu begins with inspiration. The landscape encourages early rising and peaceful reflection.

The air is fresh and the surroundings calm. You feel rested after a good night’s sleep.

Night temperatures are ideal for sleeping. Scientists say these ranges promote deep rest.

We do not use air-conditioning. Many guests prefer this natural comfort.

Nature’s Morning Symphony

The views towards the south coast change daily. Clouds and colours shift with the light.

Birdsong fills the air. It connects you with nature and sets a gentle tone for the day.

A cup of locally produced organic tea adds warmth and flavour to your morning.

Sleep Well Without Air-Conditioning - wake up inspired

GlenMyu’s climate supports restful sleep. You wake refreshed and ready to explore.

Guests often comment on how well they sleep. The absence of air-conditioning helps many relax.

A Refreshing Start to Your Day

A morning swim in the pool is invigorating. Cool water and colourful gardens surround you. It really wakes you up and provides inspiration for the day.

Wildlife sounds accompany your swim. It’s a sensory experience that energises and uplifts.

Afterwards, a warm shower brings comfort. You feel ready for the day ahead.

Fuel for Adventure in Sri Lanka

Breakfast at GlenMyu is healthy and delicious. Ruwanthi and the team prepare it with care.

You’ll have energy for hiking Horton Plains or the Pekoe Trail. Lipton’s Seat is another favourite.

The countryside offers endless exploration. GlenMyu is the perfect base for adventure.

Support Local Communities and Wildlife

Your stay supports local employment. It improves living standards and encourages biodiversity.

Our five-acre estate is home to rescue animals. We care for dogs, chickens, ducks, and cattle.

Guests love meeting our cow, calf, and bull. It’s a heartwarming part of the experience.

Why GlenMyu Inspires Every Day

Every day at GlenMyu feels new. The changing views and sounds offer constant inspiration.

We are grateful to share this place with travellers. It’s a joy to welcome you here.

To secure the best rates, contact us directly. WhatsApp us on 00 94 752 999 272

Stay at GlenMyu Boutique Villa to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Wake Up Inspired at GlenMyu Boutique Villa Read More »

The roof is on!

Accommodation, Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The roof is on!

The roof is on, at last!

What you, you may ask?

In Sri Lanka, building takes much longer than anticipated. As GlenMyu Estate is more akin to a social enterprise rather than a proper commercial entity, patience and constant changing deadlines are the norm.

Having a career as a banker in a previous life, I am more used to goals being set, deadlines being met and only small tweaks if there are setback.

I have had to adapt living in Sri Lanka!

The subject matter is the roof on a once dilapidated cowshed which is being converted into guest accommodation.

I regret that I made the suggestion

As we inch through the process of converting this building I often think that I was wrong making the suggestion to go ahead with the build.

The inspiration had come from many past guests at GlenMyu Estate.

When the builder constructed the walls of the derelict building, he did a really good job making it look pretty. Sri Lankan builders can make some beautiful stonework.

As Ruwanthi did her garden tours she would often be asked what are you going to do with this building.

We had used it as a cowshed, chicken coop, plant nursery and duck enclosure.

In reality it was far to good an accommodation for the inhabitants.

Encouraged, we started

After the level of encouragement from guests, who included architects, builders, town planners, engineers etc, we decided to go ahead during the low tourist season in Sri Lanka.

I foolishly hoped that the property would be ready for December 2024, in time for the main tourist season between December and April.

False hopes

As I have come to realise in Sri Lanka, things do not work on time.

My imaginary deadline past and we were busy with guests which put the build on hold.

Stop start, stop start.

Whenever I got some hope of progress, something always got in the way.

The builder was ill, the weather wasn’t right, the roof was remodelled again and again.

We managed to start on the landscaping around the property so at least some of the plants would be established by the time the property was ready for guests.

Just in time, the roof is on!

It is early September 2025 and the roof is on.

The timing had me biting my fingernails as we expect rain in September. We really needed the property to be watertight so we could focus on finishing the inside of the building.

Poya Day was approaching and as it is a full moon day, we expect it to rain.

As we were nearing the completion of the roof the day before Poya, there were some droplets in the evening.

I was worried!

Thankfully, despite the threatening sky, the heavy rains did not come. As it got dark, we were still not finished.

The builders really wanted to go home on Poya Day to see their families and get some well earned rest.

They delayed their departure until 12 noon on Poya Day so that they could secure the roof.

Luckily, when I woke up in the morning there were clear skies in the hills. We had a chance to complete the roof before the rains come.

Onwards to the next instalment

It was a relief to get the roof on before the rains.

There are still lots of things to complete before it is ready for guests.

However, the carpenter visited last week and has his instructions to make beds, cupboards etc.

The solar water company has already visited and we are ready to place the order.

It is also good to see the planting around the property beginning to be established.

We have a new deadline to meet, and this time I am confident that we will achieve it…with only a small amount of adjustments!

Find out about GlenMyu Estate bu visiting our website.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The roof is on! Read More »

Light on the Honeymoon Bed for Valentine's Day in Sri Lanka Romantic Celebrations

Romantic Celebrations at GlenMyu Estate

Accommodation, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu / By Mikeez

Romantic Celebrations: Why Couples Choose This Boutique Villa

GlenMyu Estate: Why couples choose this Boutique Villa in Sri Lanka for their romantic celebrations

Celebrate your love at GlenMyu Estate boutique villa in Sri Lanka.

A luxury hideaway perfect for couples and Valentine’s Day getaways.

Love deserves the perfect backdrop.

Couples searching for intimacy and beauty choose GlenMyu Estate in Sri Lanka.

This boutique villa is a romantic escape filled with charm and luxury.

💖 A Romantic Retreat for Two
With only three bedrooms and a maximum of seven guests, privacy is guaranteed.

Couples enjoy uninterrupted time together in peaceful surroundings.

Valentine’s Day is a popular time to visit GlenMyu Estate.
The lush gardens, mountain air, and gentle birdsong set the mood.

Eat, swim and relax together

🏞️ Stunning Views, Serene Spaces
Located in Uva Province, nature surrounds the villa.

Sunrise breakfasts and sunset walks make every moment feel special.
Couples find it’s the ideal place to disconnect from the world.

The swimming pool and open spaces offer plenty of time to relax together.

It's in the design

🍷 Dining Designed for Romance
Ru and the team create memorable meals for every guest.

Many couples describe the food as a highlight of their stay.

Dinner under the stars or breakfast with a view elevate every moment.
Valentine’s dinner can be a candlelit experience to remember.

Making your stay special

🌹 Thoughtful Hosting, Meaningful Moments
The hosts understand what makes a stay feel special.

They’ve travelled across Europe and value genuine conversations.
Their attentive care ensures couples feel seen and appreciated.

Many guests praise their warm approach in online reviews.

Comfort is a priority

🏡 Luxury with Heart
GlenMyu Estate blends stylish design with cosy comfort.

Couples love the spacious rooms and welcoming atmosphere.

Staying here means celebrating milestones in a personal and elegant way.

Making memories on holiday

💞 Memories That Last
Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or a surprise getaway-
Couples leave with heartfelt memories that last far beyond their stay.

It’s not just a holiday. It’s a celebration of love in a truly special place.

Book a special stay at GlenMyu Estate in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Romantic Celebrations at GlenMyu Estate Read More »

Boutique Hideaway in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A Boutique Hideaway in Sri Lanka

Why a Boutique Hideaway in Sri Lanka Could Be the Best Holiday You’ve Never Considered

Reimagining the Luxury Escape

What if luxury didn’t mean marble floors and infinity pools?

What if, instead, it meant misty mornings in the hill country, gourmet dinners made with garden-fresh ingredients, and the kind of deep, soul-resting silence you only find far from the crowds?

If you’ve been dreaming of something different – something more personal, peaceful, and profoundly beautiful – then maybe it’s time to look past the usual suspects and consider the slow charm of Sri Lanka.

Let us take you somewhere special.

Sri Lanka: The Luxury Destination Hiding in Plain Sight

Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has long been a favourite for intrepid travellers – but it’s still refreshingly under-the-radar for those seeking a luxury escape.

Here, the air smells of cinnamon and wildflowers. Hills roll into tea estates and waterfalls.

The pace of life is slower, more intentional.

And unlike other popular destinations, Sri Lanka hasn’t been overtaken by mass tourism – which means you can still find places that feel like your own private discovery.

“It’s not just a destination – it’s a feeling.”

What Makes a Boutique Hotel Experience So Special

There’s something magical about staying somewhere that feels deeply personal.

Where your hosts know your name, where every detail – from the room decor to the menu – has been chosen with love.

That’s the beauty of a boutique B&B.

With just a few carefully designed rooms, the experience becomes intimate.
You’re not one of hundreds.
You’re a guest – a welcome friend.
There’s space to breathe, to connect, to be still.

In the hill country of Sri Lanka, that magic is alive and well.

A Hill Country Hideaway Built for Slowing Down

We created GlenMyu as a home for travellers who value something different.

The ones who seek beauty in nature, comfort without pretense, and hospitality that’s thoughtful, not scripted.

Tucked into the lush green hills of rural Sri Lanka, our boutique mini hotel offers just a few private guest rooms – each with stunning views, peaceful terraces, and a front-row seat to the sunrise.

Here, mornings begin with birdsong and locally brewed coffee.

Days are unhurried.

Walks through paths, dips in the natural pool, some quiet hours with a book or a sketchpad.

It’s not about doing everything. It’s about feeling everything.

Dining with Ruwanthi: A Culinary Journey

One of the most memorable parts of the experience is the food.

And that’s all thanks to GlenMyu’s owner, Ruwanthi, Michael’s wife and the heart of our kitchen.

She cooks with passion, precision, and deep respect for local ingredients.

Think: creamy coconut curries, garden-fresh vegetables, warm homemade breads, and desserts that make you close your eyes in gratitude.

Every meal is a celebration.

Often shared at the communal table, where guests laugh, tell stories, and forget where they came from.

Perfect for Couples, Writers & Soul Seekers

We’ve welcomed couples celebrating honeymoons and anniversaries, writers finishing novels, photographers chasing early morning light, and travellers simply seeking stillness.

Our hill country guesthouse is a place to connect – with each other, with yourself, and with nature.

There’s no pressure to do. Just permission to be.

Planning Your Stay

📍 We’re located in Sri Lanka’s peaceful hill country – a scenic drive from Ella or Nuwara Eliya.

📅 Best time to visit? Anytime you need a break from the noise.

🚐 Need help getting here? We’re happy to help arrange transport.

📸 Don’t forget your camera – the mornings here are magic.

A Personal Invitation

If you’ve ever longed for a place that feels personal – one where you’re treated as a friend, not a booking number – we’d love to welcome you.

Come for the views.
Stay for the food.

Leave with something rare: peace.

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Boutique Hideaway in Sri Lanka Read More »

Where is the world’s most beautiful island?

Accommodation, Ella, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Little Adam's Peak, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Where is the world most beautiful island?

Although the answer to “Where is the world most beautiful island?” is a matter of subjectivity to many, according to Big 7 Travel’s global list, Sri Lanka is placed at number one out of fifty.

Read all about the top fifty islands by clicking the following link to Enjoytravel.com

An island full of diversity and discovery

This small beautiful island has something for every traveller.

Pristine beaches that differ around its’ coastline. Places to surf, see turtles, swim and get a tan.

Ancient temples reflect this multi-ethnic and multi-religious island.

The country has unique wildlife and lush tea plantations.

Travellers can explore vibrant towns and peaceful countryside.

All these elements helped shape the result of Big 7 Travel’s places of Sri Lanka as being the most beautiful island in the world.

Must see places

The island is full of spa many interesting places to visit and experience that many travellers come back for second and third visits.

They fall in love with the island and its’ people who deliver an amazing level of hospitality.

Sigiriya, the Lion Rock Fortress, is one of the must visit places.

Read about the amazing history before your visit to get to understand the importance of this important place.

Ella and it's amazing experiences

Ella Town, in the Sri Lankan Hill country has become one of the must visit places on your holiday in Sri Lanka.

Many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate take a day trip to this busy tourist town to see the sights.

Waiting for a train to pass over the beautiful Nine Arches Bridge, hiking to Mini Adams peak to see the views and having a dip in Ravana Waterfall are all favourite things to do.

There are many other experiences around Ella including a zip line and eating at restaurants such as Chill Cafe to people watch as you have a drink or eat your meal.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the amazing Sri Lankan Hills

Many guests choose to stay at GlenMyu Estate as they want to be surrounded by nature and not based at a busy tourist town.

Ella is just over one hours drive from GlenMyu Estate.

Other advantages for staying at GlenMyu is its’ proximity to Upper Diyaluma waterfall, Bambarakanda Waterfall and Horton Plains National Oark.

Contact GlenMyu Estate directly for best rates

Explore the “most beautiful island in the world” and explore the Sri Lankan hills by staying at GlenMyu Estate.

Read our guest reviews to find out more what travellers love it here.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Where is the world’s most beautiful island? Read More »

Patch resting after a bust day at GlenMyu Estate

The Restful Side of Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Restful Side of Sri Lanka: Don’t Miss It

The Restful Side of Sri Lanka: Don’t Miss It

Sri Lanka is a small island packed with remarkable sights.
From scenic hikes to cultural treasures, choices are endless.
Many travelers try to explore it all in one visit.
They end up with tightly packed itineraries and no downtime.

Although Sri Lanka seems small, it takes time to explore.

The country has improved its infrastructure in recent years.
New highways have made travel quicker, but not always easy.

Distances may look short on the map – but travel takes longer.

Well-being

By focusing solely on exploration, travellers neglect their well-being.

They spend long hours on the road, in heat and fatigue.

They arrive back at home drained instead of re-energized.

Why Rest Should Be Part of Your Holiday Plan

A holiday should recharge you – not leave you more exhausted.
Rest allows your body and mind to recover and reset.

You face busy schedules and challenges at home and work.
Travel should be a pause, a moment to slow down.

Rest boosts your immune system and reduces stress levels.
It improves your mood and enhances sleep quality and clarity.

Moments of calm help you appreciate travel experiences more deeply.
You gain better insights, stronger memories, and lasting energy boosts.

GlenMyu Estate: Rest, Recharge, and Reconnect

If you want rest with a touch of nature and luxury,
GlenMyu Estate offers an unforgettable experience in Uva Province.

It’s a boutique villa surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Guests enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with welcoming hosts and rescue dogs.

Healthy meals made with love nourish you from the inside out.

Comfortable beds, cosy sofas, and outdoor spaces invite relaxation.

A Sanctuary, Friendly Dogs and Delicious Food

The garden is a sanctuary, connecting you back with nature.

Birdsong and breezes replace traffic and noise from the outside world.

Friendly dogs offer companionship and unexpected emotional comfort.

Ru and the team serve meals that delight and satisfy.

Swim, hike, relax

Guests love swimming in the cool natural pool after hiking.

A hike on the Pekoe Trail or Horton Plains awakens the senses.

Then returning to GlenMyu to relax completes the experience perfectly.

Add rest to your travel itinerary from the start.

Don’t wait until the final beach day to relax.

Slow travel is better – fewer places, deeper experiences, more fulfilment.

You don’t need a full week to reset – just a few nights.

We recommend at least three nights for full restoration.

This gives you time to explore and also truly unwind.

Plan Wisely, Rest Deeply

GlenMyu Estate offers the balance travellers need in Sri Lanka.

Reach out directly on WhatsApp to unlock the best direct rates.

Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to rest at and explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Restful Side of Sri Lanka Read More »

Beyond the Beaches – Sri Lanka’s hidden treasures

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Beyond the Beaches: Uncovering the Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is famed for its tropical beaches and golden sunsets.

But this island offers much more than coastal beauty.

For travellers who crave something different, the interior landscape holds countless surprises.

Misty mountains, quiet forests, and quaint villages await.

A Unique Destination

One such destination is GlenMyu Estate.

Located in the heart of Uva Province, it’s truly off the beaten path.

Most travellers stay in the busy tourist spot of Ella.

Discerning travellers who don’t want the throng of the masses choose places that are off the beaten path.

GlenMyu Estate fits this desire and guests love it here.

There exclusive bedrooms

🏡 GlenMyu Estate is a boutique villa with just three exclusive bedrooms.

Privacy is built into its experience.

Guests consistently praise the peaceful ambiance and attentive service.
Reviews speak highly of its warmth and hospitality.

Tucked among the hills, GlenMyu offers a serene escape from the noise of busier towns and tourist-heavy beaches.

Surrounded by Nature

🌳 The surrounding nature adds magic to your stay.

Walking trails wind through lush greenery and waterfalls trickle nearby.

The estate’s design blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Expect modern comfort with rustic elegance.

Local cuisine is prepared with care, often using fresh produce grown nearby. Meals feel like a celebration of simplicity.

Uncover a Hidden Gem

🚙 Reaching GlenMyu takes you away from common travel routes.

The journey itself is part of the adventure.

This makes it perfect for couples, solo travelers, and nature lovers seeking peace and privacy.

While most visitors head to the South Coast, hidden gems like GlenMyu give a richer view of Sri Lanka’s soul

A Highlight of the Holiday

📸 Many guests say staying here was the highlight of their trip.

The combination of exclusivity and authenticity stands out.

Reviews often mention how refreshed and inspired they felt after a few days immersed in this tranquil retreat.

Uncovering the Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka - Beyond the Beach

💬 If you’re searching for the “real” Sri Lanka, start beyond the beaches.

The island’s heart lies in places like GlenMyu.

Boutique experiences reveal depth that mainstream travel cannot offer. You leave not just relaxed but renewed.

Ready to uncover Sri Lanka’s quiet side? Let GlenMyu Estate be your home off the beaten path.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Beyond the Beaches – Sri Lanka’s hidden treasures Read More »

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, visa / By Mikeez

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Hot off the press on the 25th of July it was announced that 40 countries are now eligible for a free tourist visa to Sri Lanka.

As the country chasing 3m tourists for the calendar year 2025.
This will help complete with other free tourist visa countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Hopefully, more travellers will discover this incredible and amazing island.

What countries are included for the Free Visa?

We first saw the announce meant in the Daily Mirror online.

Please click on the following articles to read what was released.

Here is the full list of 40 countries now eligible for visa-free entry:

Check this list to see whether you are eligible for a free tourist visa.

1. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

2. Federal Republic of Germany

3. Kingdom of the Netherlands

4. Commonwealth of Australia

5. Kingdom of Spain

6. Republic of Poland

7. Kingdom of Belgium

8. Republic of Kazakhstan

9. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

10. United Arab Emirates

11. Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal

12. People’s Republic of China

13. Republic of India

14. Russian Federation

15. Republic of Indonesia

16. Kingdom of Thailand

17. Federation of Malaya

18. Japan

19. Republic of France

20. United States of America

21. Canada

22. Czech Republic (Czechia)

23. Republic of Italy

24. Swiss Confederation (Switzerland)

25. Republic of Austria

26. State of Israel

27. Republic of Belarus

28. Islamic Republic of Iran

29. Kingdom of Sweden

30. Republic of Finland

31. Kingdom of Denmark

32. Republic of Korea

33. State of Qatar

34. Sultanate of Oman

35. Kingdom of Bahrain

36. New Zealand

37. State of Kuwait

38. Kingdom of Norway

39. Republic of Türkiye

40. Pakistan

Only Apply at the Government Website

Please do not use intermediaries to buy your visa.

Logon to this link to the Official Sri Lankan Government Website to purchase your visa.

It’s easy and they tend to respond quite quickly.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa Read More »

Instagram vs. Reality

Accommodation, Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Reviews from our guests / By Mikeez

Instagram vs. Reality: Has Social Media Ruined Travel?

📸 Instagram vs. Reality:

I was listing to the Parenting Hell Podcast and the latest episode was Instagram vs. Reality.

It led me to think about conversations with guests at GlenMyu Estate about how social media may have ruined travel.

I’m pleased that the reaction when they enter the house at GlenMyu Estate is positive. We regularly hear that the photos do not do it justice,

Beauty beyond the filter

🌍 Discover the Beauty Beyond the Filter — Especially at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

In the age of social media, Instagram has become the ultimate travel brochure — glossy, curated, and often misleading.

Travellers frequently arrive at restaurants, hotels, or sightseeing locations only to be met with disappointment.

The vibrancy they expected from photos fails to match real life.

Has Instagram set up unrealistic travel expectations?

Flip the narrative

At GlenMyu Estate in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, we flip that narrative.

Guests consistently tell us that our estate looks better in person than in the photos online — and that’s no accident.

It’s pleasing to hear this from our guests. We would not want them to be disappointed.

No filter needed

🌿 Reality Over Filters: The GlenMyu Estate Philosophy

Unlike many destinations that rely on heavily edited marketing images, most of GlenMyu Estate’s photos on platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, and our official website are captured using a standard mobile phone — with little to no manipulation.

Guests arrive and say “wow” — not because we’ve staged perfection, but because we’ve honoured authenticity.

“We could hire professionals to take stunning photos… but then, wouldn’t reality fall short?”

— GlenMyu Estate

A real experience

🏞️ Nature, Unfiltered: What You’ll Really Experience

– 🌳 Five acres of biodiverse bliss — a habitat designed for humans and wildlife
– 🐦 Birdwatching paradise — dozens of species, many unique to Sri Lanka
– 🦋 A dream of butterflies — vibrant, colourful pollinators on their natural journey
– 🌱 A sustainable food forest — working with nature, not against it

From the rustling of leaves to the fresh scent of rain on fertile soil, GlenMyu Estate invites guests into a living, breathing ecosystem.

It’s an experience no photo can truly capture.

A Digital Detox

📴 The Digital Detox You Didn’t Know You Needed

We encourage guests to unplug. Reconnect with nature. Discover the peace and presence that social media can’t offer.

Whether it’s sipping fresh tea while gazing over misty hills or hearing birdsong at dawn, reality — at GlenMyu Estate — delivers more than any Instagram reel.

Yes, we do use social media

Despite our views about manipulated images and Instagram vs. Reality, we at GlenMyu Estate, do use social media to promote the business.

Unfortunately, we have to use social media to find us.

We try to do as little manipulation to the images as possible so when you arrive Instagram does not ruin the reality of your experience of GlenMyu Estate.

Find out more

🌐 Learn More & Book Your Stay

Ready to experience travel the way it should be — honest, rejuvenating, and unforgettable?

➡️ Visit GlenMyu Estate
➡️ Book on Booking.com
➡️ Book on Airbnb

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Instagram vs. Reality Read More »

New Magazine Launch

Accommodation, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A new Magazine Launch - Why were we there?

We were delighted to be invited to the new magazine launch of Elevare Magazine.

The event took place on the 16th of July 2025 at the Cumulus Ballroom at Cinnamon Life in Colombo.

We were invited as GlenMyu Estate was featured in the first edition of this new luxury, business and lifestyle magazine.
If you pick up the magazine you will find us on page 82 “Hidden Gem in the Hills’.

A welcome invitation

Amith, Product Coordinator at Elevare Magazine had visited us at GlenMyu Estate in early January 2025 to visit the estate for the first time.

The weather had not been great in early January. So we were hoping the photos would do the natural beauty justice despite the lack of glorious sunlight.

It was therefore wonderful to be contacted by Amith to invite us to the launch of Elevare Magazine.

Here is the invitation we received to the event.

It was our first time at the City of Dreams in Colombo.

We made our way to the Cumulus Ballroom on the 22nd floor of the building.

The dress code was Black Tie | Timeless Glamour.

This apparel is far from what we wear when we are at GlenMyu Estate. In the Sri Lankan Hill country it is relaxed and less formal.

It was time to dust off my Tuxedo and Ru to find a suitable dress. It’s been a while since we had an opportunity to get the glad rags out!

An amazing evening

As we entered and registered we could see that a lot of effort and imagination had been put into the launch of this luxury, business and lifestyle magazine.

We dodged the photo opportunity as we entered and were greeting with a welcome drink. We made our way into the ballroom which was decorated in a Greek theme. A table with canapés was found and we admired the other guests looking good in their formalwear. We had an opportunity to meet some new people and swap business cards.

The guest list included famous actors and stars, businesspeople and diplomats. As I am not originally from Sri Lanka this passed my by.

However, we met and chatted to lots of nice interesting people.

A great introduction

There was lots of entertainment planned for the evening,

Stephanie Siriwardhana, former Miss Sri Lanka Universe and now public speaker, host and singer started the main event.

Crossing the Ballroom singing with a microphone in hand, she then delivered the opening speech.

The people behind the magazine were introduced and speeches were made.

Food was served and there was a dance exhibition by two talented dancers in Greek themed clothing.

Social Media

You can get a better feel for the Elevare Magazine launch from the social media posts from some of the attendees by clicking on the following links.

What is Elevare Magazine?

As described on their website, ELEVARE is a luxury, business and lifestyle magazine with a distinctive vision, connecting Sri Lanka’s most successful entrepreneurs at home and abroad with emerging businesses and ventures.

They believe business is not just about numbers, it’s about people, stories, memory and meaning.

During the evening the guests were presented with copies of the new magazine.

We were quite excited and opened the magazine straight away rather than waiting to get home.

Of course we searched for the article about GlenMyu Estate first!

We were delighted to find a two page spread on Page 82 of the Magazine. It was also a delight seeing that Amith had done a great job with the photos that he took.

Thank you Elevare

We at GlenMyu Estate are thankful to Elevare Magazine for including us in their first issue.

It was wonderful being invited to the launch of the magazine at Cinnamon Life.

The principles and aims of the magazine are in line with the ambitions of Sri Lankans and it is a perfect time to launch a magazine to reflect the country’s future.

We wish the magazine and all who enabled it to come into reality a long lasting success.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

New Magazine Launch Read More »

Benefits of a Boutique Villa

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

What are the benefits of staying in a boutique villa?

The Charm and Comfort of Staying at a Boutique Villa like GlenMyu Estate in Sri Lanka

When you think of Sri Lanka—lush green hills, warm smiles, misty mountains, and serene tea plantations often come to mind.

Amidst this island’s breathtaking landscapes lies a travel experience that’s redefining luxury and tranquility: staying in a small boutique villa like GlenMyu Estate.

A Personalized Escape

Unlike large hotels, GlenMyu Estate offers an intimate experience with just a few beautifully curated rooms.

The benefit?

Personalised attention that makes you feel more like a cherished guest than a hotel client.

Owners and hosts often live on-site, providing genuine hospitality, insider tips, and unforgettable stories.

It’s a refreshing change from the impersonal buzz of mass tourism.

Immersed in Nature

Set in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central hills near Haputale, Bandarawela, and Ella, GlenMyu Estate offers stunning panoramic views and a refreshing mountain climate.

You can wake up to birdsong, sip Ceylon tea on a veranda overlooking rolling hills, or take a peaceful walk through the estate’s lush surroundings.

We only use the best ingredients that we can find. Our choice for our guests is local organic Orange Pekoe Tea.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking serenity, nature-lovers, and those looking to disconnect from digital chaos.

Thoughtful Cuisine

Boutique villas often pride themselves on offering farm-to-table meals prepared with love.

At GlenMyu, meals are cooked fresh using locally sourced ingredients—often from the estate’s own garden.

You’re not just dining; you’re indulging in a story of Sri Lankan flavours served with warmth and creativity.

Slower, More Meaningful Travel

Travellers today are leaning into the idea of slow travel—staying longer, going deeper, and being more mindful.

GlenMyu Estate is perfectly suited for this ethos.

Whether it’s exploring nearby waterfalls, hiking through tea trails, or simply reading a book on a quiet terrace, every moment feels intentionally unhurried and authentic.

Eco-Conscious Comfort

Boutique villas like GlenMyu often emphasize sustainability—low-impact living, conscious energy use, and support for the local community.

Guests aren’t just enjoying comfort; they’re participating in responsible tourism that leaves a lighter footprint.

A Home Away from Home

Ultimately, what sets GlenMyu Estate apart is its soul.

It’s not just about amenities—it’s about warmth, charm, and that rare feeling of truly belonging, even when you’re halfway around the world.

Here are some of our guests enjoying a Sri Lankan cookery demonstration. It is hosted by Ru and her mother at our outside kitchen. The experience is truly a family affair.

So, whether you’re a solo traveler looking for peace, a couple chasing a romantic retreat, or a small group craving a slice of authenticity, GlenMyu Estate promises a stay that’s rich in comfort, character, and connection

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Benefits of a Boutique Villa Read More »

GlenMyu Estate - 5 acres in the Sri Lankan hill country

The Perfect Temperature: GlenMyu Feels Just Right

Accommodation, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Perfect Temperature: A Place That Feels Just Right

🌿 The Perfect Temperature for Us: Why GlenMyu Estate Feels Just Right

Little did we know that when we found the five acres in the Sri Lankan hills, that the area would deliver a perfect temperature for us.

A Climate That Feels Like Home

☀️ A Climate That Feels Like Home (like a UK Summer)

Nestled in the lush Sri Lankan Hill Country, GlenMyu Estate offers a climate that feels like a gentle embrace—especially for those who’ve spent years in cooler cities like London.

With daytime temperatures hovering around 26°C (78.8°F), it mirrors the warmth of an English summer without the extremes.

Evenings bring a refreshing coolness, perfect for unwinding outdoors as the sun dips below the hills.

Everyone appears to be concerned about sleep nowadays

🌙 Sleep Like a Dream: Science-Backed Comfort

One of the estate’s most praised features is its nighttime temperature.

It aligns closely with what sleep scientists recommend.

According to a study published by Healthline, the ideal sleep temperature for older adults is between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

GlenMyu Estate’s elevation and natural surroundings help maintain this range, making air-conditioning unnecessary—and that’s a win for both comfort and the environment.

“Our study finds a rapid decline in quality of sleep as the nighttime temperature rises above 77 degrees,” says Amir Baniassadi, PhD, Harvard Medical School.

Instead of artificial cooling, GlenMyu Estate provides duvets for cozy sleep and encourages guests to enjoy the natural breeze and serenity of the hills.

A Natural Spring-Fed Pool

🏊‍♂️ Dive Into Wellness: The Natural Spring-Fed Pool

Unlike coastal pools that can feel draining, the spring-fed swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate is invigorating.

Its temperature is naturally regulated, encouraging guests to swim, stretch, and stay active.

This is a refreshing contrast to the coast, where the heat often invites lounging more than movement.

An Altitude Advantage

🏔️ Altitude Advantage: GlenMyu vs. the French Alps

GlenMyu Estate sits just under 1,000 metres (approx. 3,280 feet) above sea level, offering a highland climate that’s both temperate and energizing.

For comparison, Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the French Alps, towers at 4,807 metres (15,774 feet).

While the Alps are majestic, GlenMyu’s elevation strikes a balance—high enough for cool nights, low enough for year-round accessibility and comfort.

Sun Safety

🌞 Sun Safety in the Hills

Despite the cooler air, UV exposure remains strong due to Sri Lanka’s proximity to the equator.

Even on cloudy days, sunburn is a real risk. GlenMyu Estate encourages guests to alternate between sun and shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly

Perfect for UK Travellers

🧳 Why GlenMyu Estate Is Perfect for UK Travellers

For those from the UK, the climate at GlenMyu Estate feels familiar yet tropical.

It’s warm without being oppressive, cool without being chilly, and always inviting.

Whether you’re sipping tea on the terrace or swimming in the spring-fed pool, the temperature here is more than pleasant—it’s perfect.

Explore more about GlenMyu Estate’s unique climate and eco-luxury experience on the official website.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Perfect Temperature: GlenMyu Feels Just Right Read More »

Why are UAE Travellers Falling in Love with Sri Lanka?

Accommodation, Holiday, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, The Pekoe Trail, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Why UAE Travelers Are Falling in Love with Sri Lanka

Why UAE Travelers Are Falling in Love with Sri Lanka — Especially GlenMyu Estate

✈️ A Quick Escape to Paradise

For travelers from the UAE, Sri Lanka offers the perfect getaway: just a 4.5-hour direct flight from Dubai to Colombo.

With frequent flights and easy visa procedures, it’s no wonder Sri Lanka is becoming a top choice for UAE residents seeking a refreshing change of scenery.

Data from Emirates Airlines

Recent research from Emirates airlines reveals that there is an increased interest in travelling to Sri Lanka in July and August.

Landscape, Climate & Biodiversity

🌿 A World Apart — Landscape, Climate & Biodiversity

Sri Lanka’s lush mountains, misty tea plantations, and tropical forests are a stark contrast to the desert landscapes of the UAE.

The cooler temperatures in the hill country, especially around GlenMyu Estate, provide a welcome break from the heat.

The island’s rich biodiversity — from elephants and leopards to endemic birds and marine life — offers nature lovers a chance to explore a vibrant ecosystem unlike any other.

GlenMyu Estate - a UAE Favorite

🏡 Why GlenMyu Estate Is a UAE Favorite

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, GlenMyu Estate boutique villa has become a beloved retreat for UAE guests.

Here’s why:

– 🌤️ Cool Climate: A refreshing escape from the UAE’s heat.
– 🧘‍♂️ Exclusivity: With limited guest capacity, privacy and tranquility are guaranteed.
– 🍽️ Exceptional Cuisine: Guests rave about the quality of meals, especially the Sri Lankan cooking demonstration followed by a sharing platter feast.

We are not the only ones saying it. Click on the link below for more reasons.

– 🌸 Ru’s Garden Tour: A guided walk through vibrant flora that guests find both relaxing and educational.
– 🐶 Rescue Dogs: Friendly, vaccinated, and adored by all — these pups add warmth and charm to the estate experience.

Feels Like Home

🌺 A Boutique Experience That Feels Like Home

GlenMyu Estate isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to connect.

Guests from the UAE often mention how the estate’s intimate setting, personalised service, and immersive cultural experiences make them feel truly welcomed.

The presence of rescue dogs adds a unique, heartwarming touch that many guests cherish.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Why are UAE Travellers Falling in Love with Sri Lanka? Read More »

Summer Travel Hotspots 2025

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka is among top Summer Travel Hotspots for 2025

According to new data released by Emirates, Sri Lanka has emerged as one of the most sought-after travel destinations for the 2025 summer season.

The airline revealed its latest travel trends based on global flight searches and bookings for July and August

Why is Sri Lanka a Summer Travel Hotspot this year?

The Island is known for its lush tea plantations, ancient heritage sites and golden beaches

Adventure-friendly landscapes including the new Pekoe Hiking Trail means that Sri Lanka continues to attract both families and solo travellers.

The country provides both value for money and variety in the visitors holidays.

You can read more by clicking on the Daily Mirror article.

Sri Lanka, a summer destination

The airline noted that Sri Lanka is also gaining popularity among travellers from the UAE and the UK.

British holidaymakers are showing a growing preference for long-haul destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Sri Lanka this summer.

This may be a reaction to the levels of over tourism and protests seen in European holiday resorts.

GlenMyu Estate is seeing more UK and Australian tourists

At GlenMyu Estate, have seen an increase in the number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka during the summer from the UK and Australia.

It is normal to see lots of guests from the UK during December to April every year as travellers escape the northern hemisphere winter.

We like seeing guests during the summer as they see parts of the island that are not as accessible in other parts of the year. Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons and there are sides of the island to avoid during certain months.

Exploring the less developed East and North of the Island during the summer allows you to see a different side of Sri Lanka.

It is great to see more Australian tourists at GlenMyu Estate during the summer. Escaping their winter and getting in some surfing at Arugam Bay and exploring the island is an amazing holiday for our southern hemisphere friends.

The Sri Lankan Hill country is great to visit for most of the year. July and August are drier months for us and therefore you can explore the amazing sights with little chance of a shower or two.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Summer Travel Hotspots 2025 Read More »

Wake Up to Birdsong at GlenMyu Estate

Accommodation, Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Birds, Birdwatching, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Reviews from our guests / By Mikeez

Wake Up to Birdsong at GlenMyu Estate

🌅 Wake Up to Birdsong at GlenMyu Estate | A Sri Lankan Nature Retreat

🐦 Waking Up to Birdsong: A Soulful Start at GlenMyu Estate

Imagine waking up to the gentle chorus of birds greeting the sunrise.

At GlenMyu Estate, nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush Uva Province, this isn’t just a dream—it’s your daily reality.

Discover the joy of waking up to birdsong at GlenMyu Estate boutique villa. Enjoy restful sleep, morning swims, and birdwatching from dawn to dusk in Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Our boutique villa offers a serene escape where nature sets the rhythm of your day.

Restful Nights

🛏️ Restful Nights in the Hill Country

Guests consistently rave about the comfortable bedrooms and the cool nighttime temperatures that make sleep effortless.

According to sleep experts, the ideal temperature for a good night’s rest is between 15°C and 19°C (60–67°F)—a range GlenMyu Estate naturally enjoys thanks to its hill country location.

Birdsong and a Swim

🌄 Morning Magic: Birdsong and a Swim

As the sun rises, the estate comes alive with birdsong.

From melodious warblers to the chatter of parrots, the sounds are a natural symphony.

Guests often start their day with an early morning swim in our infinity pool, surrounded by birds flitting through the trees.

Wake up to Birdsong

– Sri Lankan Hill Swallows often skim the pool’s surface, sipping water mid-flight
– Parrots dart from tree to tree, adding bursts of color and sound
– The peaceful ambiance makes it a perfect moment for reflection or photography

From Dawn to Dusk - wake up to Birdsong

🐦 Birdwatching from Dawn to Dusk

GlenMyu Estate is a haven for birdwatchers. With over 34 endemic species in Sri Lanka, many of which visit our 5-acre property, guests can spot:

– Layard’s Parakeet
– Ceylon Hanging Parrot
– Sri Lanka Hill Myna
– Yellow-Fronted Barbet

We recommend bringing binoculars—or borrowing a pair from us—to fully enjoy the avian spectacle.

For more on the birds you might see, visit our Birds at GlenMyu Estate page.

Nature’s Wind-Down

🌇 Evening Calm: Nature’s Wind-Down

As the day winds down, the birds return to their nests. Parrots make a final raucous dash across the treetops before settling in.

The estate grows quiet, and guests often take a peaceful evening swim, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

📸 A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, GlenMyu Estate offers a full sensory experience:
– Sight: vibrant plumage and lush greenery
– Sound: morning melodies and evening hush
– Touch: cool water and crisp air

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Wake Up to Birdsong at GlenMyu Estate Read More »

The Joy of Swimming Solo

Accommodation, Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Birds, Birdwatching, Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Reviews from our guests, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Joy of Swimming Solo at GlenMyu Estate Boutique Villa

🌿The Tranquil Joy of Swimming Solo at GlenMyu Estate Boutique Villa

When it comes to reconnecting with nature, serenity, and yourself, few experiences compare to swimming alone—especially in a pool that feels more like a natural spring than a typical resort amenity.

At GlenMyu Estate, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush Hill Country, you’ll discover a unique aquatic retreat that invites both stillness and renewal.

Add Your Heading Text Here

🏡 Boutique Luxury with Natural Simplicity

With only three beautifully appointed bedrooms, GlenMyu Estate offers exclusivity and privacy that larger resorts simply can’t match.

Whether you’re an early riser soaking in the morning stillness or an evening swimmer watching the stars twinkle overhead, chances are you’ll enjoy the pool all to yourself—while other guests are out exploring waterfalls, tea trails, and breathtaking mountain views.

No Chlorine, Just Clarity

💧A Refreshing Alternative: No Chlorine, Just Clarity

Unlike most swimming pools across Sri Lanka, GlenMyu’s pool is chlorine-free, creating a more natural and gentle experience.

The water feels noticeably softer on the skin and is a welcome contrast to the chemical-heavy alternatives. For guests who regularly swim in lakes or the sea, the transition to this natural pool feels seamless—and often, even more invigorating.

Many visitors note how coastal pools and seawater can feel too warm, especially after a hike or on tropical afternoons.

GlenMyu’s pool hits the sweet spot: refreshing without being chilly, calming without being tepid.

Stillness and Self-Connection

🌄 Embracing Stillness and Self-Connection

Swimming on your own is not just a physical activity—it’s a meditative escape.

With nothing but the sound of rippling water and chirping birds, you’ll find space to clear your thoughts, stretch your muscles, and immerse yourself in quiet luxury.

It’s in these moments that GlenMyu Estate shines as more than just accommodation; it becomes part of your wellness journey.

Contact us directly for the best rates

📞 Ready to Dive In?

Want to experience this peaceful slice of paradise for yourself?

Contact GlenMyu Estate directly for availability and the best direct booking rates.

With personalized service and an unforgettable setting, your solo swim might just be the highlight of your Hill Country adventure.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Joy of Swimming Solo Read More »

A view from the middle floor lounge at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

The Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Organic, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Reviews from our guests, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka

Why Booking All Three Rooms at GlenMyu Estate Is the Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka

🏡 Your Private Slice of Paradise in the Hill Country

When planning a holiday with family or close friends, privacy, comfort, and shared experiences are key.

That’s why booking all three rooms at GlenMyu Estate, a boutique villa nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush Hill Country, is a brilliant choice.

With exclusive access to the estate, you’ll enjoy the freedom to relax, explore, and connect—without the distractions of other guests.

Perfect for Families and Friends

GlenMyu Estate offers three beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms—two doubles and one triple—accommodating up to seven guests comfortably.

Whether you’re traveling with extended family or a group of friends, having the entire villa to yourselves means:

– 🍽️ Shared meals and laughter around one table
– 🛏️ No awkward room assignments or shared bathrooms with strangers
– 🧘‍♀️ Freedom to unwind in spacious lounges and garden nooks
– 🐾 Exclusive access to the estate’s resident animals—including friendly rescue dogs, ducks, chickens, and cows

Five Acres of Space to Roam and Relax

Unlike crowded hotels, GlenMyu Estate offers five acres of landscaped gardens, forest trails, and hidden seating areas.

You can explore the spice garden, take a dip in the natural spring-fed pool, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from your room’s floor-to-ceiling windows.

Create Unforgettable Group Memories

Booking all three rooms transforms your stay into a private retreat.

Guests often describe their time at GlenMyu as magical—filled with:

– 🌄 Sunset walks and waterfall visits
– 🍛 Sri Lankan cooking demonstrations hosted by the owners
– 📚 Board games and books in cozy lounges
– 🐒 Wildlife sightings, including monkeys and endemic birds

Visitors rave about the estate’s peaceful atmosphere, gourmet food, and warm hospitality.

Many say they wish they’d stayed longer—and that having the whole villa to themselves made the experience truly special.

Value and Flexibility

Booking all three rooms often comes with special direct rates for longer stays.

It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy luxury, privacy, and personalised service—without the premium price tag of larger resorts.

Ready to Book Your Group Escape?

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a reunion, or simply craving quality time with loved ones, GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect setting.

It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to reconnect, recharge, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka Read More »

A place to spend you wedding anniversary in Sri Lanka

Genuine human-to-human contact

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Genuine human-to-human contact

Human-to-human contact – is it all lost?

In an era where artificial intelligence continues to reshape how we interact, work, and even relax, the value of genuine human-to-human contact stands out as more vital than ever.

While AI can assist, streamline, and even predict our needs, it cannot replicate the warmth of a smile, the comfort of shared laughter, or the connection that comes from a meaningful conversation.

These uniquely human touches are the threads that weave empathy, trust, and lasting memories

Why human-to-human contacts important in hospitality

This truth resonates deeply within the world of hospitality—an industry built on connection, care, and personal attention.

Guests may arrive at a destination for its luxury or scenery. But what they remember most—and what brings them back—is how they were made to feel.

That sense of being truly seen, heard, and welcomed can only come from real human interaction.

It’s the tone of voice when a host recalls a guest’s favorite drink, or the shared stories over breakfast that linger longer than the taste of the coffee itself.

Explaining the intricacies of the design and planting on our garden tour could only be done successfully by Ru. She designed and continues to manage the estate and therefore has an insight that AI could not replicate.

It's part of what we do

At GlenMyu Estate, a boutique villa nestled in nature with just three guest bedrooms, this philosophy isn’t merely a preference—it’s a way of life.

Our small scale invites a level of intimacy and personalization that large hotels simply can’t replicate.

Every guest becomes part of a slower rhythm, where their name is known, their needs are anticipated, and their experience feels genuinely curated—because it is.

How less impactful would our Sri Lankan cooking demonstration be without Ru and her mother?

Something that no algorithm can replicate

Here, the human connection isn’t just important; it’s the essence of what we offer.

Whether it’s a warm welcome from the host, spontaneous chats about the local area, or simply being present to share a sunset view, our guests experience more than just comfort—they experience belonging.

And no algorithm can replicate the heart behind that.

As technology continues to accelerate, the places that choose to stay human will stand out more boldly. GlenMyu Estate is proud to be one of them.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Genuine human-to-human contact Read More »

Visit Bambarakanda Waterfall: A Must-See

Accommodation, Bambarakanda Waterfall, Sri Lanka., Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Visit Bambarakanda Waterfall

Bambarakanda Waterfall: A Must-See Day Trip from GlenMyu Estate.

Tucked away in the misty highlands of Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda Waterfall is a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe.

Standing at 263 meters, it holds the title of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall, cascading down a sheer rock face surrounded by pine forests and rugged cliffs.

Located in Kalupahana, just a scenic drive from Beragala, this hidden gem is a favorite day trip for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Stay at GlenMu Estate to visit Bambarakanda Waterfall

Guests staying at the GlenMyu Estate boutique villa often include a visit to Bambarakanda in their itinerary.

The estate’s convenient location near Beragala makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural beauty.

After a hearty breakfast at GlenMyu, many guests set off for a leisurely drive through winding mountain roads, arriving at the falls in under an hour.

Enjoy the journey when visiting Bambarakanda Waterfall

The journey itself is part of the adventure—passing through tea plantations, misty valleys, and charming hill-country villages.

Once at Bambarakanda, visitors can enjoy a short hike to the base of the falls, where the cool spray and thunderous roar of water create a truly immersive experience.

Visit Bambarakanda Waterfall

A majestic waterfall which is filled by the waters of the Kuda Oya which flows from the Walawe River.

The falls are only a twenty minutes walk from the car park.

You will walk through a pine forest and when you reach the horseshoe pool you can sit and marvel this natural sight.

For the more adventurous, nearby trails lead to Lanka Ella and Devil’s Staircase, offering even more dramatic views.

After a day of exploration, returning to the luxury and tranquility of GlenMyu Estate is the perfect way to unwind.

With just three rooms, a natural spring-fed pool, and gourmet meals made from homegrown ingredients, the estate offers a peaceful retreat that blends comfort with nature.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or sipping tea in the hills, GlenMyu Estate is your gateway to Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Visit Bambarakanda Waterfall: A Must-See Read More »

Mike at Worlds End, Horton Plains National Park.

À la découverte de Horton Plains

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

À la découverte de Horton Plains : un joyau naturel du Sri Lanka

À la découverte de Horton Plains

Situé dans les hauts plateaux du Sri Lanka, le parc national de Horton Plains est une véritable merveille écologique, classée patrimoine mondial par l’UNESCO.

Perché à plus de 2 100 mètres d’altitude, ce site fascinant abrite une biodiversité exceptionnelle, où prairies brumeuses, forêts de montagne et cascades se côtoient dans un décor féérique.

La randonnée incontournable

À la découverte de Horton Plains

Le sentier de randonnée circulaire de 9,5 km offre une expérience inoubliable aux amoureux de la nature.

Accessible aux marcheurs de tous niveaux, ce parcours traverse des paysages spectaculaires, où l’on peut observer des cerfs sambar, une variété unique d’orchidées, et même des nuées d’oiseaux endémiques.

Le climat frais et les panoramas brumeux donnent à chaque pas une ambiance mystique qui rend cette marche unique en son genre.

World’s End : un point de vue vertigineux

À mi-parcours, le sentier mène à World’s End, un escarpement impressionnant où les falaises chutent à près de 870 mètres.

Lorsque la météo est dégagée, on peut apercevoir les terres agricoles en contrebas s’étendant jusqu’à la côte sud.

Il est recommandé de s’y rendre tôt le matin avant que les nuages n’envahissent la vallée.

Baker’s Falls : un moment de fraîcheur

À la découverte de Horton Plains

Peu après World’s End, le sentier bifurque vers Baker’s Falls, une splendide cascade encadrée de rhododendrons en fleurs.

Le bruit apaisant de l’eau qui chute sur les rochers sombres crée un moment parfait pour une pause photos… ou simplement pour admirer la beauté brute de la nature.

Séjour recommandé : GlenMyu Estate

Pour prolonger cette immersion dans les hauteurs du Sri Lanka, rien de tel qu’un séjour à GlenMyu Estate Luxury Boutique Villa.

Nichée dans la verdure à proximité de Haputale, cette villa élégante allie confort moderne et vue imprenable sur les montagnes environnantes.

Le service y est chaleureux, les repas savoureux, et l’environnement serein — idéal pour récupérer après une journée de randonnée et continuer à savourer la magie des Horton Plains.

Entre aventure et quiétude, Horton Plains est une invitation à redécouvrir la nature sous sa forme la plus pure.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

À la découverte de Horton Plains Read More »

Sri Lanka in August

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Reviews from our guests, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka in August

August is a great month to visit Sri Lanka.

This is our driest month in the Sri Lankan Hill Country at GlenMyu Estate.

Unlike other months you are unlikely to see any rain which could spoil some of the sightseeing when you are on holiday.

What is the month of August like in Sri Lanka?

Clearly, the weather around the globe is less predictable. Heatwaves in the UK, flooding in Spain and too many wildfires in the US and Australia makes planning your holiday less certain.

Sri Lanka is affected by Monsoons, however, in the hill country, typically we get little or no rain.

It makes it a safer place to visit when you want to avoid adverse weather.

The Weather in August in Sri Lanka

At GlenMyu Estate, near Beragala, Sri Lanka we find that August is a dry month. Fortunately, we have springs on the five acre estate, and to date have always had water throughout the year.

It’s great to spend time at the natural spring-fed swimming pool after a days exploring the sights nearby.

I have some links to weather sites so you can seed for yourself what you should expect.

Not good for the garden, but great for the guests

One of the reasons why the Sri Lankan Hill country is so lush is that it gets regular bouts of rain.

However, with little or no rain in August, we get the sprinklers on to keep the lawns in good shape.

Here is Patch enjoying the shoe looking at the swimming pool in the distance.

Is going in holiday to Sri Lanka in August a good idea?

August is a high tourist season in Sri Lanka due to the weather and the natural holiday period in the west.

We have found that many more Australians, New Zealanders and South Africans are visiting Sri Lanka in August.

If you are looking to avoid the Southern Hemisphere winter, then visiting Sri Lanka in August is a good choice.

Arugam Bay is great for surfing at this time of year. The East coast beaches are also open and visiting this less developed part of the island is great if you want to avoid the crowds.

Yes, it's great to holiday in Sri Lanka in August

As Sri Lanka is still developing its’ tourism offering the local people welcome tourists.

Unlike some established tourist spots in Europe, you won’t be squirted with a water pistol!

The East and North Coasts of the island were not available to visit during the countries civil war which ended over fifteen years ago.

If you are looking to explore a place which has not been overdeveloped then Sri Lanka is a great place to holiday in August.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Sri Lanka in August Read More »

The Perfect Temperature

Accommodation, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Perfect Temperature

The Perfect Temperature….at least it is for us and our guests at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

Nestled in the emerald hills of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, GlenMyu Estate offers more than just luxury—it delivers a climate that many would call perfect.

The Perfect Temperature: A Year-Round Embrace at GlenMyu Estate

Perched some 400 metres below Haputale, this boutique villa sits at an elevation that gifts it with a temperate climate year-round.

This makes it a haven for travellers seeking comfort, serenity. It is a welcome break from the extremes of tropical heat or monsoon chill.

A Climate of Calm

Unlike the coastal lowlands of Sri Lanka, which can be hot and humid, GlenMyu Estate enjoys a cooler, more refreshing atmosphere thanks to its hill country location.

Daytime temperatures typically hover between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F) throughout the year.

Evenings bring a gentle drop in temperature, often settling around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). It’s perfect for cozying up with a warm drink and a view of the mist rolling over the hills.

Seasonal Shifts Without Extremes

– January to March: These months are dry and sunny, with crisp mornings and golden afternoons.

It’s ideal for hiking nearby trails or lounging by the estate’s natural spring-fed pool.

– April to June: The inter-monsoon period brings occasional showers, but the temperature remains mild.
The estate’s gardens burst into bloom, and the air is rich with the scent of fresh earth and flowers.

The second half

– July to September: Our driest month is August. It then turns slightly cooler and mistier into September.
This is when the hills wear a veil of fog in the mornings. It’s a magical time for nature lovers and photographers.

– October to December: Rainfall increases slightly. But the estate’s elevated position means it avoids the heavy downpours seen in other regions.

The temperature remains steady, and the lush greenery is at its most vibrant. Mid December sees an improvement in the weather as the Festive Season approaches.

Why It Feels Just Right

The secret to GlenMyu’s perfect temperature lies in its balance.

It’s warm enough to enjoy the outdoors comfortably. Yet it is cool enough to sleep soundly without air conditioning.

The villa’s design embraces this climate, with open lounges and shaded verandas. Large windows invite in the breeze and birdsong.

Whether you’re sipping tea on the terrace or exploring the nearby waterfalls and trails, GlenMyu Estate offers a climate that soothes the body and uplifts the spirit.

It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to breathe.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Perfect Temperature Read More »

14-day itinerary Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Safari, Surfing, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A 14-day itinerary Sri Lanka holiday.

A 14-day itinerary Sri Lanka holiday.

Sri Lanka is full with so many experiences that it is a challenge fitting in a 14-day holiday on this paradise island.

We wanted to suggest a journey through Sri Lanka, blending cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife encounters!

Here’s, what we consider to be, a well-balanced 14-day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Negombo

Day 1: Arrival in Negombo

– Relax at Negombo Beach and explore the local fish market.

– Overnight stay in Negombo.

Negombo is only a twenty minute drive. So, you can be at the beach shortly after your arrival on the island.

Day 2-3: Dambulla & Sigiriya

Day 2-3: Dambulla & Sigiriya

– Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

– Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress for stunning views.

– Explore Pidurangala Rock for an alternative sunrise hike.

– Overnight stay in Sigiriya or Dambulla.

Day 4-5: Kandy

Day 4-5: Kandy

– Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

– Stroll around Kandy Lake and explore the Royal Botanical Gardens.

– Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

– Overnight stay in Kandy

Day 6-7: Nuwara Eliya - 14-day-itinerary-sri-lanka

Day 6-7: Nuwara Eliya

– Take the scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.

– Visit a tea plantation and factory.

– Explore Gregory Lake and the colonial-era town.

– Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 8: Horton Plains National Park

Day 8: Horton Plains National Park

– Hike to World’s End and Baker’s Falls.

– Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya or Ella.

Day 9-10: Ella

Day 9-10: Ella

– Visit Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.

– Explore Ravana Falls and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Ella.

– Overnight stay in Ella.

Day 11: Yala National Park

Day 11: Yala National Park

– Embark on a safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.

– Overnight stay near Yala.

14-day-itinerary-sri-lanka

Day 12: Udawalawe National Park

Day 12: Udawalawe National Park

– Visit the Elephant Transit Home.

– Enjoy a safari in Udawalawe National Park.

– Overnight stay near Udawalawe.

Day 13: Mirissa & Rekawa Beach

Day 13: Mirissa & Rekawa Beach

– Go whale watching in Mirissa.

– Relax at Rekawa Beach, known for turtle nesting.

– Overnight stay in Tangalle.

Day 14: Tangalle & Departure

Day 14: Tangalle & Departure

– Enjoy the serene beaches of Tangalle.

– Transfer back to Colombo for departure.

This 14-day itinerary for Sri Lanka balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

14-day itinerary Sri Lanka Read More »

Luxury with a homely touch

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Honeymoon, Natural Swimming Pool, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

GlenMyu Boutique Villa: A Luxurious Retreat with a Homely Touch

GlenMyu Boutique Villa: A Luxurious Retreat with a Homely Touch

Tucked away in the serene hills of Sri Lanka, GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers a luxurious escape while retaining the warmth and familiarity of a home.

This exclusive retreat is not just about elegant accommodations—it’s about experiencing nature, comfort, and authentic hospitality.

A place where you can relax and connect with nature

The views from the house at GlenMyu Estate change daily as the clouds create new patterns in the sky.

Sri Lanka’s beautiful landscape is both relaxing and inspiring.

This is a place where you feel connected with nature.

Places to sit, places to sleep

It’s important that you have comfortable places to sit and sleep.

The space in the lounges and the bedrooms have been crafted so that you can truly relax on your holiday.

Refresh your body in the pool whilst surrounded by nature

One of GlenMyu’s most captivating features is its natural spring-fed swimming pool, a refreshing sanctuary set amidst lush greenery.

Unlike conventional pools, this eco-friendly design allows guests to immerse themselves in crystal-clear waters straight from the earth, creating a soothing and invigorating experience

Nourishing your body with good food

Meals at GlenMyu are a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, with much of the produce sourced directly from the villa’s own garden.

Guests savour dishes crafted with hand-picked herbs, vegetables, and tropical fruits, ensuring each meal is not only delicious but also infused with the essence of the land.

Entertainment provides by our resident animals

Beyond its luxurious comforts, GlenMyu embraces its natural surroundings with a charming collection of resident animals. Ducks waddle across the estate, chickens roam freely, cows graze peacefully, and friendly dogs add to the welcoming atmosphere. This harmonious coexistence with nature further enhances the villa’s inviting, homely feel.

Spacious luxury

Spread across five acres, the estate is a sanctuary for relaxation and exploration, where guests can unwind, take in breathtaking views, and reconnect with nature.

Whether floating in the spring-fed pool, savouring a garden-fresh meal, or enjoying the presence of GlenMyu’s beloved animals, visitors leave with not just memories of luxury, but an experience that feels like home.

Why choose GlenMyu Estate?

For those seeking a unique blend of comfort, nature, and genuine hospitality, GlenMyu Boutique Villa is a haven that offers far more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination where luxury and warmth go hand in hand.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Luxury with a homely touch Read More »

A hike for everyone

Accommodation, Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A hike for everyone in Sri Lanka

The Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka is a hike for everyone.

There are twenty-two stages in this three hundred kilometre trail.

Our guests at GlenMyu Estate have enjoyed hiking stages 12 and 13 of the Pekoe Trail. The stages meet in Haputale which is around twenty minutes drive from the estate.

We have also have some guests that have also hiked stage 14. They arranged to have their baggage taken by Tuk Tuk to their hotel in Ella.

Although the trail only opened in 2023, there are a growing number of travellers who have tackled some or all of the twenty two stages.

A local guide we met advised that the trail can be completed in sixteen days if you are able to trek two stages on some of the days.

The stages range from nine to twenty-one kilometres long and therefore it is achievable if you are fit enough.

The founder of the trail says that it is a hike for everyone.

Miguel Cunat, Pekoe Trail founder says that the trails are fairly easy, at low elevation.

It means that even novice hikers are able to try some of the stages.

There is information on the Pekoe Trail website about how hard the individual trails are along with distances and rises and falls in elevation.

You can read more about the Pekoe Trail on the BBC website’s article A ‘hike for everyone’: The 300km route shining a spotlight on Sri Lanka’s tea history.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate for stages 12 and 13 of the Pekoe Trail

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

A hike for everyone Read More »

Birthday in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Honeymoon, Sri Lanka, wedding / By Mikeez

A Birthday in Sri Lanka

Where should I spend my birthday in Sri Lanka?

At GlenMyu Estate, we have lots of guests whose holiday happens to take place when they are on holiday in Sri Lanka.

We feel honoured that our guests choose GlenMyu Estate as the place to spend their special day. As a result, we do our best to make it a birthday to remember.

Your day should be more than just a birthday cake

Whatever you age, your birthday is a special day and should be more than just having a birthday cake.

Staying at GlenMyu Estate where you have space, comfort and spectacular surroundings will help you remember your important day.

Staying in a beautiful place - without many other guests

As we only have three bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate, you have plenty of space to spend time together. We aim to make your birthday in Sri Lanka different from what you would normally do back at home.

The swimming pool is one of our favourite spots. A maximum of seven guests at the property ensures that the pool does not feel crowded.

Many guests find that they have the pool to themselves, especially if others go out and explore the sights nearby.

A relaxing birthday in Sri Lanka

Relaxing in the grounds of the five acre estate is a good way to spend your day.

Perhaps, one of our rescue dogs will provide some entertainment for you as you explore the grounds.

Advanced notice of your birthday is appreciated

It really helps if you let us know in advance that you will be celebrating your birthday in Sri Lanka at GlenMyu Estate.

There have been times where we have only found out when we complete our guests registration and spot that your birthday is that day.

We really want to make you birthday in Sri Lanka a special experience, so it helps if you give us time to plan.

Perhaps we can discuss a special meal as well as a birthday cake.

A reputation for good food

We are starting to get a reputation to serving good food to the guests that stay at GlenMyu Estate.

Please read our guest reviews and see what guests write about their stay with us.

We are delighted and humbled that guests have chosen us as the place to spend their birthday in Sri Lanka.

Our commitment is to make the day as special as we can for you.

Celebrate your birthday & explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country at GlenMyu Estate

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Birthday in Sri Lanka Read More »

Maalu Maalu - swimming at the East Coast of Sri Lanka

Flying from Berlin to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak / By Mikeez

Flying from Berlin to Colombo

✈️ Flying from Berlin to Colombo: A Scenic Journey to Serendipity

Sri Lanka’s tropical allure is drawing more travellers from Germany, especially those seeking a cultural escape with natural beauty.
While there are no direct flights from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, there are several convenient one-stop options:

– Popular Airlines with One Stop:
– Qatar Airways via Doha
– Emirates via Dubai
– Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi
– Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
– Pegasus Airlines via Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen
– Lufthansa via Frankfurt or Zurich

– Flight Duration:
– Ranges from 10 hours 20 minutes to 16 hours 35 minutes, depending on the stopover

German Travellers Choose Sri Lanka

🌿 Why German Travellers Are Choosing Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers a rich blend of nature, heritage, and culinary experiences that resonate with German travellers.

– Ella’s Hill Country Magic:
– Guests at GlenMyu Estate often take day trips to Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall Adam’s Peak
– The cooler climate and scenic train rides through tea plantations are a refreshing contrast to urban life

– Tranquil Escapes:
– GlenMyu Estate is ideal for those who prefer peaceful surroundings over crowded tourist hubs

A Culinary Haven in the Highlands

🍞 GlenMyu Estate: A Culinary Haven in the Highlands
German guests appreciate the thoughtful approach to food at GlenMyu Estate, where flavour meets finesse.

– Freshly Baked Breads:
– Baguettes, rolls, and breakfast breads made daily by Ru and her team
– Homemade Jams:
– Crafted from fruits grown on the estate’s garden—seasonal, sweet, and local
– Sri Lankan-European Fusion Cuisine:
– Ru’s 16 years in the UK have shaped her culinary style: flavourful but not overly spicy, tailored to suit European palates while preserving Sri Lankan essence

What's the appeal?

🌺 Why GlenMyu Estate Appeals to German Travellers

– A serene location with easy access to Ella’s top sights
– Personalised service and warm hospitality
– A culinary experience that blends comfort, creativity, and local ingredients

So, the result is

📌 Conclusion: From Berlin to Serendipity

With flexible flight options, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable meals, Sri Lanka is becoming a top choice for German travellers.

GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet indulgence—making every trip feel like a true escape.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Flying from Berlin to Colombo, Sri Lanka Read More »

Wedding Anniversary in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Honeymoon, Reviews from our guests, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Wedding Anniversary in Sri Lanka

Where should I spend my wedding anniversary in Sri Lanka?

Several of our guests have chosen GlenMyu Estate to stay at during their wedding anniversary.

They see GlenMyu Estate as a luxury treat when they are on their holiday in Sri Lanka.

We do our utmost to make their special day a memorable one for them and are honoured that they choose to stay with us.

Romantic bedrooms

Our bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate have been designed so that if you want to spend your time away from other guests, the room is comfortable to do so.

We have two comfortable chairs in the bedroom (or perhaps bean bags) so both guests can relax and enjoy the fabulous views.

Our Mahogany and Mango bedrooms have a bath that is comfortable for two people. We offer candles so that you can have a romantic bath together when watching the stars.

It will make your wedding anniversary in Sri Lanka a memorable one.

Put your feet up and spend you special time together

By staying with us at GlenMyu Estate you can forget about everything else and focus on spending your time together on your wedding anniversary.

Relax whilst you have a sumptuous breakfast and enjoy the views from the dining room.

Perhaps you can enjoy your breakfast on the patio and soak up the goodness in the morning sun.

Walks in nature

GlenMyu Estate is set in five acres of the Sri Lankan Hill country.

Although there are lots of wonderful places to explore within a drive from the estate such as Ella Town, stages of the Pekoe Trail and Diyaluma Waterfall, there is enough to experience on the estate.

Wander through the gardens and immerse yourselves in nature. Listen to the birds sing and fly from tree to tree. Watch the colourful butterflies seek out their favourite flow.

Space for you

We have designed several spots around the gardens where you can sit and enjoy the time to yourselves.

Taking in the scenery and spending the time together is important for you to strengthen your relationship bonds.

Fabulous food

Ru and her team will discuss what you would like to eat for your special wedding anniversary meal in Sri Lanka.

We tend to offer mainly plant based food, however we do include some fish and chicken offerings.

Enjoying a delicious meal and not having to think about the dishes or getting a taxi home means that you can relax and spend some special time together.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Wedding Anniversary in Sri Lanka Read More »

Sri Lanka Summer 2025

Accommodation, Birdwatching, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka Holiday in the Summer of 2025

Thinking about a holiday in Sri Lanka during the summer of 2025?

At GlenMyu Estate, we are seeing a rise in visitor numbers during mid July, August and through to mid September.

August is our driest month and our guests particularly enjoy spending time at our natural spring fed infinity swimming pool.

A new summer destination?

Sri Lanka has been a favourite place to escape the winter blues for Northern Europeans.

The beaches on the west and east coast are idyllic at that time of year. You can also get your fill of culture, nature, hiking and history in the Central Highlands and cultural triangle.

Feeling the worn tropical sun during the depths of winter is good for the body and soul. It’s also an opportunity to arrive back at work with a suntan feeling refreshed and rested.

During the Northern Hemisphere summer months travelling to the Mediterranean was a shorter flight and inexpensive.

Now, as many of the resorts are suffering from over tourism and protests have made tourists feel unwelcome, lots of travellers are looking further afield.

Sri Lanka is becoming a more popular destination to experience during these summer months.

Since the countries civil was finished in 2009 the East and North of the island have been welcoming more tourists.

This part of the island is best visited during the summer months.

The beaches are different from the south and west and tourism is slowly developing.

Arugam Bay - re-found

Australians were regular visitors for the surfing at Arugam Bay.

Sri Lanka had many challenges including the global pandemic and a financial crisis and many Australians sought other destinations to escape their winter.

Now they are back and Sri Lanka is soundly on their tourist map again.

Many other nations have found Arugam Bay and as more Europeans seek to escape the European summer it will become even more popular.

Great ambitions for Sri Lanka during the summer of 2025

Tourism is one of the focuses for the government as it tries to rebuilt the economy.

Tourist numbers are rising fast.

They jumped from 719,000 in 2022 to 1.4 million in 2023.

The year 2024 saw 2.05 million and the plan is for 3 million in 2025 according to the newly released “Growth Scenarios for Tourism to Sri Lanka”.

Get here now - Sri Lanka Summer 2025

Given the ambitious targets by the Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority, the message is loud and clear “Visit Sri Lanka soon!”.

We don’t envisage over tourism in Sri Lanka, but as numbers grow, unique experiences will get more challenging.

Great places to visit in Sri Lanka during the Summer of 2025

The beaches are not the only places to explore on this tropical island.

The Central Highlands are also good to visit during the summer months. Experiencing the sights around Ella, including Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall and Little Adams Peak are great places to visit.

If you like hiking then perhaps the new Pekoe Trail is for you.

Several of our guests at GlenMyu Estate start the stages from and to Haputale.

Kandy and the Cultural Triangle

You are also able to visit the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka during the summer months. You may come across some rain however exploring the rich historical and cultural heritage in the area is worthwhile.

The Cultural Triangle encompassing ancient cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. There is an amazing array of ancient monuments, temples, palaces, and statues that showcasing Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions, royal history, and artistic achievements.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Sri Lanka Summer 2025 Read More »

Bobbi is our youngest dog at GlenMyu Estate

A different kind of swim

Accommodation, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A different kind of swim on a paradise island

Swimming in the pool at GlenMyu Estate is a different kind of swim.

No chlorine, filled from a natural spring and surrounded by nature.
It’s an experience that you won’t forget.

At GlenMyu Estate, we attempt to give you a unique experience as you discover this island paradise.

Cool and refreshing - a different kind of swim!

You know that you are alive!

The temperature in the pool varies during the year.

In early December, sometimes I have to brace myself before diving in and repeat that this is good for you.

As our Scandinavian guests arrive in January, they do not understand what the fuss is all about. The temperature is positively inviting!

Our German guests are of a similar disposition. They love the freshness and are probably the most regular users of this unique experience.

A different kind of swim - surrounded by nature

The swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate is a short walk away from the house.

Lots of our guests like this are it is not overlooked and you can swim with a level of privacy.

The pool is surrounded by nature. Your eyes will be bombarded with a sea of changing greens and other hues from the flowers and other plants around the pool.

An experience in the morning and the evening

I particularly like swimming in the early morning or in the early evening. It is a different kind of swim everyday.

Around 8 a.m or 4:30 p.m are my favourite times.

I love the colours of the sun peaking through the trees and the sounds of the birds at the start and end of their days.

My swim is regular disturbed by a noisy flock of parrots racing from tree to tress before retiring for the night.

You might be accompanied by a dog or two!

Our dogs don’t like water.

It really is a challenge getting them to have a bath. The sounds of reluctance are evidence enough.

However, you may be joined by some of them during your swim.

They love it when we have guests, especially if you give them a little affection.

So, your different kind of swim may include an informal security guard watching over you!

The waters warmer at the beach

The pool at GlenMyu Estate provides a different kind of swim to experience.

Lots of our guests find that the temperature of the water at the coasts are a little too warm. Some guests swim in the sea or lakes in Northern Europe and prefer the cooler water in the GlenMyu pool.

However, it’s great to have a variety of experienced on your holiday in Sri Lanka.

Spending time in a warm hotel pool or surfing on the southern coast is also a memorable experience.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate for a different kind of swim

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

A different kind of swim Read More »

Best hotels in Sri Lanka for three couples

Accommodation, Ella, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Best hotels in Sri Lanka for three couples

Where are the best hotels in Sri Lanka for three couples.

Do you want to have the place all to yourselves?

Then GlenMyu Estate, in the Sri Lankan Hill Country, may be the ideal place for you.

Smaller is better

Since the global pandemic we have seen a move towards travellers choosing smaller hotels and villas.

They don’t want to be in a larger hotel, queuing at a buffet for their breakfast.

A smaller, bespoke hotel provides the privacy and level of service that some of the larger hotels cannot match.

If you and your friends are planning a holiday in Sri Lanka, then there are lots of great options for you to consider.

Near, but far enough away from Ella

At GlenMyu Estate, we have hosted guests that want to be in reach of the tourist hot spots, but don’t want to be in the heart of a touristy place.

Many guest choose GlenMyu Estate,

Exclusive use

We really like it when we have one group of guests taking all three bedrooms.

The exclusive use of the property with your friends or family mean that you can truly relax.

We can offer better direct booking rates when you book all three bedrooms for two nights or more.

Space for three couples to enjoy time on their own

An important thing to us is that you can have some time alone if required.

We have made sure that each bedroom has two comfortable places to sit, if you want time away for yourselves. There is a mix of chairs or beanbags for you to relax.

There are two lounges which also have comfortable seating. They are configured so you can sit together or spend some time in individual spaces.

Three luxury bedrooms for three couples

The Mango, Mahogany and Cinnamon bedrooms all have private bathrooms.

Each king-size bed faces out to the stunning views of the valley below leading towards the south coast.

As the temperature does not get too warm in the Sri Lankan Hill country, we do not have air conditioning. Overhead fans are all that is needed for those warmer times of the year.

Dining with friends is much more fun

Isn’t dining with friends and family much more fun. Conversations at the dining table reminiscing about the past or what you have experienced in the hill country.

This is a place where memories are made.

The food is great too.

Have a look at our reviews and you will read about what our guests say about the food.

Here is our food menu to start your taste buds going!

A pool less crowded

When you book all three rooms as couples you wont have to worry about pool time.

Six sun loungers await for you to relax around the beautiful natural pool.

It’s an amazing space where you can truly relax after a refreshing swim.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Best hotels in Sri Lanka for three couples Read More »

Patch being a guard dog surveying the land

Not all paradise

Accommodation, Birdwatching, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our dogs, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Travel / By Mikeez

Not all paradise!

It’s not all paradise living in Sri Lanka.

However, there is no place that I would rather be.

'You are living in a paradise'

When guests stay with us at GlenMyu Estate, I often hear them comment that it must be wonderful living in paradise.

Like most things, what you see looks great, but the reality is that it’s not all paradise.

A lot of work, a little bit of stress and a few obstacles in the way led top the creation of our piece of paradise.

There are still challenges every day, however, they are minor and worth meeting for us to be able to life our lives in Sri Lanka.

Far from a paradise

GlenMyu Estate was far from a paradise when we saw the abandoned five acres back in 2011.
It was in such a mess that we were not able to see much of it.

The Guinea Grass was so high that we were only able to scramble through around 150 metres of rough landscape before turning around.

Buy it, we might find something better

We had searched for a piece of land each year on our annual holiday in Sri Lanka.

The search was exhausting. We often were excited to reach the land being offered after a tumultuous journey down a never ending unmade path, only to be disappointed.

The journey had taken us ten hours on the train from Colombo Fort to Haputale followed by a Tuk Tuk ride to see what would become GlenMyu Estate.

Ru was happy that she could see some water traveling itself across the land. There was also an electricity line at the road.

I was happy that the access was from the main A4 road and not down a two kilometre bumpy track.

The price was okay, and I said to Ru that she should buy it.

I always had in my back of my mind that at least Ru would have some land. It could always be sold if we found something better.

Something that was not a paradise, eventually becomes a paradise.

After plunging a large sum into building a road that accessed the centre of the land we had to follow our money.

In the rains you come across leeches.

Having lived for many in the concrete jungle of London, where we chase away any wildlife, leeches were quite scary.

It took me some time before I accepted that giving an animal a little meal from blood that was surplus to my requirement was okay.

What I found was that if I cut the grass on GlenMyu Estate quite short on the pathways and lawn, the leeches disappear. They can’t handle any sun and really need long wet grass to live in.

So, we avoid the long grass and keep the pathways in good condition.

It took some time to create a paradise

If you have ever watched Grand Designs there is a regular pattern.

It starts with an ambitious project with a budget that may not be enough.

Delays, weather, difficulties in getting material and changes in specification along the way results in project delays.

We went through all these experiences during the development of GlenMyu Estate. There are so many stories that are in the back of my mind, one day I will put them down on paper. I think I haven’t so far as some bring back too many painful memories.

We didn’t have a timescale for the project.

The global pandemic occurred during our build and we really didn’t know that anyone would be travelling again to stay in the house.

At one point I thought that GlenMyu Estate would be an abandoned project and we would move back to the UK to a normal life.

It took around three years before we moved into the house at GlenMyu Estate.

Eventually, we moved our belongings into the upper floor of the property.

It was all worth it in the end.

The reaction reminds us that we live in paradise

‘You can never get bored of living here’

This is another phrase that we hear very often. The reaction that our guests have when they walk through the doors and see the view from the lounge makes us feel very humble.

When your landscape is similar every day, it is easy to treat it as normal and not appreciate it for what it really is.

We love having guests stay with us at GlenMyu Estate for many reasons. One is that thy keep us grounded and ensure that we appreciate this bit of paradise we have created.

Elements that make GlenMyu Estate a paradise

There are lots of elements that make this five acre piece of land in the Sri Lankan hills a paradise for us.

We are fortunate to be living in a microclimate that enables so many plants to grow. Ruwanthi is always happy to provide a garden tour for interested guests to see the spices, fruits and vegetables that we grow.

The climate is also great for us. It’s not too hot nor too cold.

Typically the temperature during the day ranges from 22 to 26 degrees Celsius. When it does reach 28 degrees there are plenty of trees to get some shade. The climate means that we don’t need to use air-conditioning. We are pleased that we don’t have that negative impact on the environment.

Nature led the way

I always say that we have worked with nature and not pushed her too much. Living on a slope, if you push too much then nature will let you know it. We have planted lots of trees and carried out as many steps as we can to stop the erosion on the hillside. Terraces of rock walls and hedgerows have been created all around the land.

Nature provides natural beauty. By working with nature it has created a more beautiful and calming environment than we could have planned.

Water

Water is important and Ruwanthi spotted the streams crossing the land on our first visit. Thankfully we have springs going through the gully or glen.

This means that we have water throughout the year which helps with the gardens.

We have created a natural spring fed swimming pool which is one of our favourite places at GlenMyu Estate. It’s refreshing whether you have been working all day or experiencing one of the Pekoe Trail Hikes or Horton Plains National Park

Surrounded by nature, it’s an amazing place to be.

A connection with nature

The whole of GlenMyu Estate is designed to connect you with nature. Ru took some inspiration from architect Geoffrey Bawa to bring the outside in.

Floor to ceiling windows in the bedrooms and lounges are focussed to make the best of the environment. It is calming watching the clouds sail along by, or sometimes come and touch the windows.

Our food menu is mainly plant based. We source as much ingredients as we can from the garden or locally to the estate.

The garden produce are one of the elements of living in paradise. Eating seasonal from the garden is when the produce tastes the best.

What a feeling I have eating mandarins that have been picked from the garden. Slicing a lemon for the occasional G & T that I know has not travelled very far adds to the taste.

Feeling like you want to stay longer

We love it but we are also sad when guests say that they would have wanted to stay longer and do not want to leave.

Unfortunately many guests only have a short time to see this wonderful paradise island. Holiday allocation limits their ability to stay in one place for too long. Recently we have had more four days stays. However, this is still not long enough to really relax on the property and also explore the places too see within reach of the estate.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and enjoy our little paradise

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Not all paradise Read More »

The Luxurious Mango bedroom at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. Wonderful for Valentine's Day in Sri Lanka

Three Bedroom Hotel in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Three Bedroom Hotel with a pool in Sri Lanka

If you are looking for a three Bedroom Hotel in Sri Lanka with a pool, then GlenMyu Estate delivers a special experience for you and your guests.

There are lots of reasons why taking all three rooms for your exclusive use makes a lot of sense.

The actual capacity at GlenMyu Estate is for seven people as we have one triple bedroom and two double bedrooms.

We also have a sofa bed in the main lounge. However this does mean that guests using the sofa bed have to share a bathroom with the other guests.

It works out satisfactorily when there is a family with children.

Creating special memories together in the Sri Lankan Hill country

Groups of friends and families have booked all three bedrooms and enjoyed the space that GlenMyu Estate delivers.

Spacious lounges, a swimming pool and five acres to explore all help to create special memories for those that stay.

Whether its an incredible sunset sky, laughter at the swimming pool or the guests sitting at the table enjoying a delicious meal together, we love that we can provide the facility to strengthen friendships and family bonds.

Why only three guest bedrooms?

It just happened that we made a building that had three bedrooms for guests.

We live on the upper floor, so that are four bedrooms in the building.

Three bedrooms work for us as it allows us to provide a personal service to our guests.

We can also pay special attention to the quality of food that we serve as we can focus a smaller number of guests.

Three is not a crowd

We recognise the importance of having space.

Many people live in more cramped conditions than they would like (as we did when we were in London).

By only having three bedrooms guests have the luxury of space.

Two lounges, five acres of land and with lots of places to sit and enjoy nature means that you will have the opportunity to be alone if you choose.

Three bedroom hotel -Excellent for friends

We have hosted small groups of friends who have taken all three bedrooms.

Having this amazing space just for six or seven people allows you to relax and spend some special time to strengthen those friendship bonds.

Being able to eat together around one table not being disturbed by others provides an opportunity to make new memories.

We love hearing the laughter from the dining area when groups of friends stay and reminisce about their past and the experiences exploring Sri Lanka.

Three bedroom hotel -Great for families

In a busy world where families live apart, it’s difficult to spend some quality time together.

Some guests book all three rooms for several nights so that they can spend that precious time with their families.

We love hearing the laughter and memories being made at the swimming pool from different generations of the same family.

Bespoke meals

We make every meal freshly to order. Whether it’s home made pasta, mushrooms in cashew sauce or our ice creams we make them all from scratch.

As it takes time to prepare the meals we do ask our guests to order their meals in advance.

We mainly have vegetarian, or plant based options for guests made with the best ingredients that we can source.

Some fish and chicken dishes are also available.

Activities to kept you entertained

There are lots of wonderful places to explore in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

However, you don’t have to go our for the day as there is enough to do at the estate. We have board games, books to read and we can set up a badminton net on the lawn.

Sri Lankan cookery demonstration

An activity that lots of our guests enjoy is our Sri Lankan cooking demonstration.

Hosted by the dream team of Ru and her mother, it’s an informative and entertaining time.

And the best bit is that you get to eat the food that you have seen being cooked at our outside kitchen.

A spice garden tour

Ru regularly provides guests with a garden tour.

For many it’s educational, finding out where your food comes from.

We grow, cinnamon, pepper, cloves, jackfruit, banana, lemons, vanilla, tomatoes, and many more items.

Is five acres enough?

Most business people would have developed more units on the five acre estate.

We believe in the luxury of space.

Having five acres to roam around and enjoy the varying landscape provides the opportunity of spending time for yourselves without the intrusion of others.

Three wonderful bedrooms

All our bedrooms have fabulous views towards the south of the island to wake up to.

There is enough space in the rooms to hang out when you want to be alone.
We have made sure that there are two chairs or beanbags in the rooms so you have a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the view.

There are two doubles and one triple and our maximum capacity is for seven guests.

Lounge around

Spacious lounges provide an opportunity to spend time together. We have some board games so that guests can get competitive if they want!

There are books to read and an amazing view to admire, so you will always have something to occupy your time…if you need to.

Contact us directly for prices for all three bedrooms

If you are taking all three rooms for two or more nights we will provide you with our best direct rate.

The best way to contact us is by WhatsApp.

Press the WhatsApp button on our website or send a message to 94 752999272

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Three Bedroom Hotel in Sri Lanka Read More »

Hotels in Sri Lanka for dog lovers and a swimming pool

Accommodation, Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our dogs, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Hotels in Sri Lanka for dog lovers and a swimming pool

Hotels in Sri Lanka for dog lovers and a swimming pool.

GlenMyu Estate is located in five acres of the Sri Lankan hill country , just over one hours drive from Ella.

We find that our guests like to stay out of the touristy areas but be within reach so that they can visit and experience the beautiful places to see in the area.

The swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate is filled by a natural spring and you will sometimes be accompanied by one of our dogs who will watch over you whilst you swim.

Meet the dogs

Here are some of the dogs that you will meet at GlenMyu Estate

We are proud to say that we have re-homed many puppies over the time we have lived in Sri Lanka.

It got a little more difficult to find homes in 2022 during the financial crisis experienced by the country.

However, recently (February 2025), we have managed to re-home three street dogs. They are all settled in their new homes with loving owners.

Your bit of charity when you stay with us

We aim to give all dogs that go through pour hands the best start in life as possible.

By staying with us at GlenMyu Estate, part of the money you pay goes to supporting the dogs.

The dogs at the estate are fed, housed and get their annual vaccinations.

We feed street dogs in Beragala town and have recently been supporting a female who gave birth to five puppies.

As some of the local Sri Lankans find it costly to spay or neuter their dogs, we provide funding to ease the financial pressure.

Our fabulous swimming pool

We love our swimming pool.

It is surrounded by a sea of green and listening to the bords as you swim is a joy.

The pool os not overlooked by the house and our guests like the level of privacy.

No need to share

As we only have three guest bedrooms you will often find that you are the only guests at the swimming pool.

Some families or friends book all three rooms at the estate and have the luxury of having the pool all to themselves.

It’s a perfect place to relax, have some fun and make memories that will last for a long time.

No chlorine, just spring water

Don’t you hate the chlorine smell when swimming and when you get out of the pool.

I just can’t wait to have a shower and remove that chemical odour.

As our swimming pool is filled from a natural spring and is constantly flowing, we do not use chlorine in the pool.

It’s and amazing experience and great to know that you are swimming in water as natural as it should be.

Enjoy our dogs and fabulous swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Hotels in Sri Lanka for dog lovers and a swimming pool Read More »

Visit Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka

From Manchester to Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Little Adam's Peak, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Manchester to Colombo, Sri Lanka

✈️ Flying from Manchester to Colombo: A Scenic Journey to Serendipity

While there are no direct flights from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, travellers have several convenient one-stop options:

– Popular Airlines with One Stop:
– Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi – approx. 13h 5m
– Qatar Airways via Doha – approx. 13h 50m
– Emirates via Dubai – approx. 14h 50m
– Turkish Airlines via Istanbul – approx. 14h 10m
– Pegasus Airlines, British Airways, and SriLankan Airlines also offer connecting routes

British Travellers Choose Sri Lanka - Why?

🌿 Why UK Travellers Are Choosing Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s mix of tropical beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality is striking a chord with British holidaymakers.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Appeal:
– GlenMyu Estate is ideal for those seeking peaceful surroundings, away from crowded tourist zones

A Culinary Experience

🍞 GlenMyu Estate: A Culinary Experience with British-Friendly Flair
British guests appreciate the thoughtful approach to food at GlenMyu Estate, where flavour meets finesse.

A Boutique Stay

🌺 Why GlenMyu Estate Appeals to British Travellers

– A serene location with easy access to Ella’s top sights
– Personalised service and warm hospitality
– A culinary experience that blends comfort, creativity, and local ingredients

So, the verdict is

📌 Conclusion: From Manchester to Serendipity

With flexible flight options, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable meals, Sri Lanka is becoming a top choice for British travellers. GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet indulgence—making every trip feel like a true escape.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

From Manchester to Sri Lanka Read More »

The House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Large or small hotels. Where should I stay in Sri Lanka?

Accommodation, Holiday / By Mikeez

Large or small hotels?

Large or small hotels.

Sri Lanka has a large variety of accommodation for you to choose wen you are on holiday on the island.

From swanky five star hotels, boutique villas, treehouses, homestays, hostels and glamping, Sri Lanka has something for everyone.

There are also properties for all kinds of budgets.

What type of hotel should I choose for my holiday in Sri Lanka?

Whether small hotels are better depends on your travel needs, personal preferences and budget.

Here’s some ideas which hopefully will help you decide:

Why Small Hotels Might Be Better

Personalised Service:

Smaller hotels often provide more attentive and customised service, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

An Authentic Experience:

These hotels can offer a more local and intimate vibe, helping you connect with the destination.

At GlenMyu Estate we offer a Sri Lankan cookery demonstration for those interested in the local cuisine.

Ru also provides a society garden tour where you can learn about the spices, fruits and vegetables that we grow on the 5 acre estate.

A Quieter Atmosphere:

Naturally being a smaller hotel there will be less people to share the property with.

A smaller hotel is likely to be more peaceful and a place you can relax without the hustle of larger establishments.

Unique Character:

More than often in Sri Lanka a family owned or boutique villa, may have charming, individualised designs and experiences that you won’t find in larger establishments.

When Larger Hotels Might Be Better

More Amenities:

Bigger hotels often provide extensive facilities, such as pools, gyms, restaurants, and conference centres.

They will also have a well sticked bar where you may well get your favourite whiskey or gin. Smaller hotels are unlikely to provide a large range of drinks.

Location and Convenience:

Chain hotels are often situated in central areas with easy access to attractions and transport.

There are lots of well know operators such as Hilton, Marriot, Taj in some of the more popular destinations on the island.

There are also good quality local operator groups such as Thema Collection, Cinnamon Hotels and Jetwing Hotels offering a more local experience in a larger hotel.

Consistency:

You know what to expect with bigger brands in terms of quality and standards.

Staff will be trained to the same standards as you experience in the same chain hotel in your own country.

The choice is yours

Ultimately, if you’re traveling in Sri Lanka, small hotels or guesthouses in places like Ella or Haputale might enhance your experience by giving you a more personal connection to the country’s culture.

In some areas there will be less choices and you may not come across a larger hotel.

Whatever you choose, you will experience fabulous Sri Lankan hospitality and staff that want you to have the best time on the island.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Large or small hotels. Where should I stay in Sri Lanka? Read More »

The best way to travel in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

Best way to travel around Sri Lanka

What is the best way to travel around Sri Lanka?

This tropical island offers a variety of travel options, each with its own charm and practicality.

Some are more costly than others, so you will have to consider what budget you want to spend on travel.

Although the island is small, it does take a long time to travel from one place to another. When planning your trip, use Google directions so you get an idea about the travel times.

Coming from Europe, you will be surprised about how long it takes to get from one place to another. However, travel and adventure is all about the journey!

Here are some options for you to consider.

Go by Train

Sri Lanka’s train journeys are legendary.

The scenic route from Kandy to Ella, which takes you through lush tea plantations and misty hills is a popular way to traverse across past of the island.

Trains are affordable and offer a relaxed way to explore the country.

However, due to the age of the train lines and the landscape that they travel through, often they can be slow and sometimes delayed.

Check prices and book your tickets through the official Sri Lankan Railways site.

Tuk-Tuks -hire or self drive

For short distances or exploring towns, tuk-tuks can be a fun and authentic way to get around.

You can even rent one for a longer trip if you’re feeling adventurous!

Tuktuk rental is an ethical business and lots of tourists are using their services. Several guests at GlenMyu Estate have arrived in their own Tuk-tuk.

Buses

The buses in Sri Lanka connect most parts of the country, including remote areas.

This form of transport is cheap, but buses can be crowded and less comfortable.

You will need to make a decision between comfort and cost, especially for long journeys.

Lots of tourists have concerns about the speed and safety that the buses drive at. After your first trip on a Sri Lankan bus, you may well decide on alternative transport around the island.

Air conditioned coaches

There is a network of air conditioned coaches that travel to different parts of the island.

They are more comfortable than the buses and usually use the highways for at least part of the route.

Several of our guests have used these buses which are cheaper than hiring a car with a driver.

Some guests have used NGC Express to get from Colombo to Ella.

Private Cars with Drivers

Hiring a car with a driver is a convenient and flexible option.

It took me some time to get comfortable driving on Sri Lankan roads. I found it quite scary at first, especially on the narrower road. Although I am now used to driving, I think that hiring a driver is a good option.

You will get to see more of the countryside rather than watching the road.

Local drivers also usually can find you places that are off the beaten path, which you are unlikely to come across under your own steam.

Costs can be shared if you’re traveling with family or friends.

This form of travel is more expensive but saves time and effort.

Mix it up!

A mixture of hiring taxis, using Tuk tuks for small journeys and braving the occasional bus is a good way to see different parts of the island.

Check with the host you are staying with for taxi numbers and tuk tuks.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The best way to travel in Sri Lanka Read More »

Baker's Falls - a family enjoying the view

Family holiday in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Little Adam's Peak, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

A family holiday in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for a family holiday.

It offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Here are some ideas to make your trip memorable:

Hill Country Experiences

Explore the serene beauty of places like Ella, Nuwara Eliya, or Haputale.

You can enjoy scenic train rides, tea plantations, and waterfalls.

Wildlife Safaris

Visit Yala or Udawalawe National Parks for a chance to see elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.

It’s an exciting experience for kids and adults alike.

Days at the beach

Relax on the golden beaches of Bentota, Mirissa, or Unawatuna. These spots are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.

Exploring Sri Lanka's culture

Discover the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, or Sigiriya.

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a must-see for its history and breathtaking views

Connecting with Sri Lanka's abundant nature

Head to Horton Plains for a family hike to World’s End or visit the Bambarakanda Falls, the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Spiritual Sites

Explore the sacred city of Kandy, home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, or visit Kataragama for its spiritual significance.

A holiday for all the family

Sri Lanka’s diversity ensures there’s something for everyone in the family.

Stay with your family at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Family holiday in Sri Lanka Read More »

Windows looking toward the valley making the best of the view.

Hotels near Koslanda

Accommodation, Holiday, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Hotels near Koslanda, Sri Lanka

Hotels near Koslanda, Sri Lanka

If you want to be conveniently near to Diyaluma Waterfall, GlenMyu Estate is located around 45 minutes drive away.

This three bedroomed boutique villa is located between Beragala Junction and Koslanda on the A4 road.

Where is Koslanda, Sri Lanka

The town is on the A4 road between Beragala and Wellawaya in the Sri Lankan hill country.

Why should I visit Koslanda?

Koslanda is a small town which is in the Badulla District of Uva Province.

Koslanda is located near to Diyaluma Waterfall which is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and is 220 m (720 ft) high.

The waterfall is becoming a more popular place for local and foreign

The views along the A4 road around Koslanda are stunning.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda

One of the amazing things to do in Sri Lanka is to visit Upper Diyaluma Waterfall.

If you are interested in nature, then you will enjoy the short hike to the top of the waterfall. There are beautiful pools for you to enjoy.

You will need to be careful swimming in the pools are sometimes the sides are slippery and the water flow can be quite strong if there have been recent rains.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Hotels near Koslanda Read More »

How long should I stay?

Accommodation, Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

How long should I stay?

How long should I stay?

As GlenMyu Estate has evolved, we have found that most guests find that they wish that they had stayed longer with us.

Recently, we have been receiving more bookings for four night stays.
I came to the conclusion some time ago that seasoned travellers see the benefit of staying at one place for at least three nights.

I can see that in future, more guests will opt for longer stays.

Here are my thoughts as to why.

Race around Sri Lanka on your first time here

A typical first holiday on this beautiful island consists of a race around the island to see all of the headline sights. You must climb the Lion Rock, visit Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth, take the train journey, see Nine Arch Bridge, safari in Yala and get a tan at the southern beaches.

I don’t think that there is anything wrong with this.

Most people think that this will be there one and only experience of Sri Lanka. The fact is that once you have been here once, you will want to come back again.

At GlenMyu Estate we come across many guests that are on their second, third and even twelfth time on the island!

There is so much more!

What people find is that there is so much more to experience on this small island.

Delving deeper on your following trips allows you to explore and get to understand the people and culture to a higher level.

A British thing

Being brought up in Britain has left me with being diplomatic and not pushy. I know that guest should stay longer and ought to tell them. Unfortunately, culturally, I find it really difficult to do.

I really don’t want guests to get the impression that we are just trying to make more money.
We are not naturally pushy people.
But, I know that a longer stay is the right thing.

I just hope that guests read our reviews on Google, Booking.com and Airbnb and see how many guests recommend a longer stay.

One night is not enough!

Although we are happy that guests get to experience GlenMyu Estate, one night is hardly enough.

So many guests really don’t enjoy unpacking for one night. Also, if you arrive late in the day, you won’t get the chance to enjoy the estate. You could spend a day at the estate alone, enjoying the pool, garden tour and the delicious meals we serve.

Why stay for three nights

Some time ago I came to the conclusion that seasoned travellers stay in each hotel for at least three nights.

There are lots of reasons

Unpacking your suitcase every night

I see so many guests getting frustrated by having to unpack one night and repack the following morning.

This is exhausting itself.

So much to see

If you research where you are staying and what to do in the surrounding area you will find that one night is not enough.

For example, within reach of GlenMyu Estate, there are several hiking trails, the tallest and second highest waterfalls, viewpoints, temples and small towns to explore.

Searching on TripAdviser or Google for things to do will provide you with lots of things you may be interested in visiting.

We have a ‘thing to do’ section on our website.

Spending time at the estate

Lots of our guests enjoy spending some time relaxing and exploring the five acre estate.

I love to see guests reading a book after enjoying a swim in the swimming pool.

Travellers need to combine exploring with relaxation during their vacation.

Garden Tours and Cookery Demonstrations

We offer a complimentary garden tour and cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Estate.

These are experiences that you can enjoy after going sightseeing in the morning.

How do I decide on how long I should stay?

Many of our guests contact us directly by WhatsApp to make their booking.

I always ask if they want any recommendations on what to see and do whilst they are here.

We know what previous guests like and are happy to share links to the fabulous sites and experiences to explore in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

We learn from our guests

Some of our guests have discover places that we didn’t know about. Typically these places would be lesser known and off the beaten path.

Recently some architects stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate. Fans of Sri Lanka’s famous architect Geoffrrey Bawa, they had arranged to visit a Bawa designed church near Bandarawela.

We were not aware of this place.

The architects were delighted to show us photos of the beautiful church on their return. It was stunning!

Subsequently, we have suggested to other guests to visit the church, especially if they have an interest in architecture..

Ask your hosts beforehand

So, we would recommend that you message your hosts and ask them. They really should be the experts in their local area and you might get to see something that is not on your list.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

How long should I stay? Read More »

Hotels for seven people in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Reviews from our guests, Ru's Recipes, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Vegan, Vegetarian / By Mikeez

Hotels for seven people in Sri Lanka

Hotels for seven people in Sri Lanka

At GlenMyu Estate we can accommodate seven guests.

We have two double bedrooms and one triple bedroom.

It’s a great opportunity to have the five acre estate exclusively for use for your family and friends.

Three bedrooms

We have one triple bedroom and two doubles.

In the lounge we also have sofa bed, so we can squeeze in another couple or some children if required.

The Mango and Mahogany bedrooms are on one floor connected by a communal lounge.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the lower floor and has some outside space.

All our bedrooms have their own private bathrooms.

The Mango bedroom is very popular with honeymooners or couples celebrating their anniversary.

The bathroom has a fabulous view of the hills towards the south of the country.

It comes with a spacious shower and a bath.

Some guests enjoy a bath looking out of the window at the stars.

The Mahogany bedroom is a triple with a king-size bed and a separate single bed.

They have fabulous views and the bathroom also has a bath similar to the Mango bedroom.

It’s a great space for a family with a child or if you just want the largest bedroom we have in the property.

The Cinnamon bedroom is on the lower floor of the house.

The bathroom has a shower, but no bath. However, this bedroom has a nice outside sitting space where you can enjoy your morning tea of coffee taking in the view.

There is a pathway from the room that takes you to a small lawn and then onto the swimming pool.

All our bedrooms have comfortable Sri Lankan made mattresses, overhead fan and seating.

There is no need for air-conditioning in the Sri Lankan hills. We provide duvets on the beds as it can be a little cooler at night.

Lounges to relax in

We believe in comfortable chairs!

It’s important to us that you can relax and enjoy the fabulous views of the Sri Lankan countryside. We have chairs and sofas on both floors which are comfortable and allow you to enjoy the landscape.

Swim surrounded by nature

Our swimming pool is one of our favourite places on the estate. Filled with spring water and no chlorine, it is an experience swimming surrounded by nature.

We have sun loungers so that you can spend more time in this amazing space.

Oh, and the food!

Food is another important part of the experience at GlenMyu Estate.

We source the best local ingredients that we can find. Our menu is mainly plant based with some fish and chicken options.

Read our food reviews and see what our other guests say about what they eat at GlenMyu Estate.

Contact us by WhatsApp for our best direct rates

We offer great rates for guests that book directly.

WhatsApp + 94 752999272

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Hotels for seven people in Sri Lanka Read More »

A glass of wine in the afternoon

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Plant Based Menu, Recipes, Travel / By Mikeez

A glass of wine

A glass of wine in the afternoon is such a pleasure.

For me, it’s a little indulgent as wine is an expensive import in Sri Lanka.

It makes me appreciate the variety of good wine that I could buy, at a reasonable price, whilst living in the UK.

Wine is available in Sri Lanka, however unless you buy from a specialist store in Colombo, you will find most to be lower quality for a higher price than you would pay back at home.

This is why having a glass of wine is an occasional event for me. (Perhaps it’s better for my liver!).

Having a glass of wine in Sri Lanka

One of my pleasures is to have a glass of wine in the afternoon with a late lunch.
It feels rather indulgent here in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

Good wine (at a reasonable price) is hard to come by in Sri Lanka, especially when you compare it to the UK.

However, every so often you will come across a wine that is drinkable and at an affordable price.
Today, I drank a few glasses of Pinot Grigio with my lunch of hummus, salad and cheesy onion bread.

Apart from the cauliflower that was hidden in the hummus, it was a perfect meal to have after a day picking up provisions for the guests that arrive tomorrow.

Orders for Chilli and Garlic Prawns, Sesame Crusted Tuna followed by delicious desserts have already been received in advance.

Our guests really don’t know what a treat they have in store. Both the prawns and the tuna are amazing dishes.

They will be a welcome exchange for the slow travel around the island and will send our guests to bed that evening satisfied in every sense.

Where can I buy wine, beer and spirits in Sri Lanka?

This is a photo of Beragala Wine Store.

You will find lots of wine stores around the island. They all have the same green signboard with white lettering.

However, don’t be fooled into thinking that there will be a large selection of wine on offer! I tend to often find that there is only one or two varieties of white and red wine on offer.

Sri Lankans favour stronger alcohol such as Arrack, locally made Vodka, Gin and Brandies.

Even the beers on offer are strong at around 8 – 8.8% in alcohol volume.

I tend to favour the 4.8% Lion Lager or occasionally a Lion Stout at 8.8%.

BYOB

At GlenMyu Estate, we encourage our guests to bring their own alcohol with them.

Apart from making it a more economical stay, you can bring along your favourite Whiskey or Gin which might not be available locally.

Do not worry if you forget to bring some drinks with you as we can get drinks collected from the wine store by Tuk Tuk.

Food and drink

We have a good reputation for the food that we serve at GlenMyu Estate. Just have a look at our reviews and you can read what our guests say.

Have a look at our food menu so you can decide on what drink you would like to accompany your meal

Beware of the Full Moon Day!

Sri Lanka has a full moon day every month which is also a religious holiday.

You will most likely find that it is difficult to get an alcoholic drink that day as the bars will be closed unless the hotel has a special licence. The Wine Stores will be closed also.

So, if you really want a drink you will have to make plans beforehand.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

A glass of wine in the afternoon Read More »

A view of Nine Arch Bridge, Demodara, Ella, Sri Lanka.

Flying from Dublin to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Food and Drink, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Dublin to Colombo, Sri Lanka

✈️ Flying from Dublin to Colombo: A Journey Worth the Miles

While there are no direct flights from Dublin Airport (DUB) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, Irish travellers have plenty of convenient one-stop options:

– Popular Airlines with One Stop:
– Qatar Airways via Doha – approx. 13h 30m
– Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi – approx. 13h 45m
– Emirates via Dubai – approx. 14h
– Turkish Airlines via Istanbul – approx. 14h 50m
– Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France via European hubs – approx. 15h to 16h .

Irish Holidaymakers Are Choosing Sri Lanka

🌿 Why Irish Holidaymakers Are Choosing Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s blend of tropical beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality is striking a chord with Irish holidaymakers.

– Ella’s Hill Country Wonders:
– Guests at GlenMyu Estate often take day trips to Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall, and Little Adam’s Peak
– The scenic train rides and cooler climate offer a refreshing contrast to Ireland’s own green hills

– Off-the-Beaten-Path Appeal:
– GlenMyu Estate is ideal for those seeking peaceful surroundings, away from crowded tourist zones

Authentic Experiences: Unlike crowded tourist hubs, GlenMyu Estate offers a tranquil escape with panoramic views and easy access to nature trails.

A Culinary Retreat

🍞 GlenMyu Estate: A Culinary Experience with Irish-Friendly Flair

Irish guests appreciate the thoughtful approach to food at GlenMyu Estate, where flavour meets finesse.

– Freshly Baked Breads:
– Baguettes, rolls, and breakfast breads made daily by Ru and her team
– Homemade Jams:
– Crafted from fruits grown on the estate’s garden—seasonal, sweet, and local
– Sri Lankan-European Fusion Cuisine:
– Ru’s 16 years in the UK have shaped her culinary style: flavourful but not overly spicy, tailored to suit European palates while preserving Sri Lankan essence
– Michael, Ru’s husband, worked for an Irish company in the UK and has family living in West Cork. He understands the culture of both countries and their similarities.

A Boutique Stay

🌺 Why GlenMyu Estate Appeals to Irish Holidaymakers

– A serene location with easy access to Ella’s top sights
– Personalised service and warm hospitality
– A culinary experience that blends comfort, creativity, and local ingredients

So, the verdict is

📌 Conclusion: From Dublin to Serendipity

With flexible flight options, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable meals, Sri Lanka is becoming a top choice for Irish holidaymakers.

GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet indulgence—making every trip feel like a true escape.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Flying from Dublin to Colombo, Sri Lanka Read More »

The Lotus Tower. Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka.

From Dubai to Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Flying from Dubai to Colombo, Sri Lanka

✈️ Dubai to Colombo: A Quick Escape to the Tropics

Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture and serene landscapes are drawing more travellers from the UAE, especially those seeking a refreshing break from city life.
Flying from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is both fast and convenient.

– Direct Flights:
– Operated by Emirates, flydubai, SriLankan Airlines, and Servant Air
– Flight time ranges from 4 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes
– Multiple daily departures from Terminal 1 or 3 at DXB

– One-Stop Options:
– Routes via Doha (Qatar Airways), Muscat (Salam Air), or Mumbai (IndiGo/Air India)
– Total travel time varies from 6 to 9 hours, depending on layover duration.

UAE Travellers Choose Sri Lanka

🌿 Why UAE Travellers Are Choosing Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka offers a lush, laid-back alternative to the fast-paced lifestyle of Dubai.

– Ella’s Hill Country Charm:
– Day trips to Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall, and Little Adam’s Peak are popular among guests at GlenMyu Estate
– The cool climate and scenic views provide a refreshing contrast to the desert heat

– Tranquil Retreats:
– GlenMyu Estate is a boutique villa that appeals to travellers seeking peace, privacy, and nature

A Culinary Retreat

🍞 GlenMyu Estate: A Taste of Sri Lanka with a European Twist
Food is a highlight for UAE visitors, especially those with refined palates.

– Fresh Breads Daily: Ru and the team bake baguettes, rolls, and breakfast breads that rival any Parisian bakery
– Homemade Jams: Made from fruits grown on the estate, they’re a sweet start to the day
– Sri Lankan-European Fusion Cuisine:
– Ru’s 16 years in the UK have shaped her approach to seasoning—flavourful but not overpowering
– Dishes are tailored to suit international tastes while celebrating Sri Lankan ingredients

A Boutique Stay

🌺 Why GlenMyu Estate Is a Favourite Among UAE Guests

– A quiet escape from crowded tourist zones
– Personalised hospitality with attention to detail
– A culinary experience that blends comfort and authenticity

So, the verdict is

📌 Conclusion: From Dubai to Serendipity
With short flight times, stunning scenery, and unforgettable meals, Sri Lanka is becoming a top choice for UAE travellers. GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet indulgence—making every trip feel like a true escape.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

From Dubai to Sri Lanka Read More »

Facilities for Pekoe Trail Hikers

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Plant Based Menu, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Unique facilities for Pekoe Trail hikers.

We were asked recently what facilities we offer which are unique for Pekoe Trail hikers.

It is a good question.

What is the Pekoe Trail?

The Pekoe Trail is a new hiking route that takes you around Sri Lanka from Kandy and ends in Nuwara Eliya.

There are 22 stages in the 300 kilometre hike through the beautiful landscapes of the country.

It has already won awards, despite only being opened in 2023.

At GlenMyu Estate, we have had several guests hike stages 12 and 13 of the Pekoe Trail.

The stages end and start in Haputale which is a 25 minute Tuk Tuk ride from GlenMyu Estate.

Stages 12 and 13 of the Pekoe Trail

We are finding that more of our guests at GlenMyu Estate are hiking parts of the Pekoe Trail whilst they stay with us in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

Most are finding that there are very few other hikers on the route. However, we can only see this becoming a more popular activity in the coming months.

Some guest like to walk the trail without a guide and follow a walking app such as All Trails of Wikiloc.

Other guests hire a guide that knows the trail and also can add valuable information about the flora and fauna that you will see on the way.

What we do differently

Food glorious food.

You will need some great tasting food after the exertions of your hike. Ru and the team at GlenMyu Estate have a good reputation for the food that they serve to our guests. It’s something worth looking forward to after you efforts.

Read our reviews about our food on the various review sites.

Our breakfast is quite substantial and sets you up for the day.

Swim and ease those muscles

Our swimming pool is unique and offers a different experience to many other pools around the island.

The swimming pool is fed from a natural spring and is cooler that other pools you will see in Sri Lanka. Swimming after a hike is a great way to soothe those muscles that you have worked hard on your hike.

Comfortable beds and an amazing view

We selected our beds to provide you with a comfortable nights sleep.

It is amazing to wake up the the view of the hills leading towards the south of the country.

We do not have air conditioning in our rooms as it is not required. The temperature during the day is normally between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius. At night it reduced to 14 to 18 degrees celsius which is a great temperature to get a good nights sleep.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Facilities for Pekoe Trail Hikers Read More »

Our guests having breakfast at GlenMyu Estate

From Birmingham to Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park / By Mikeez

Birmingham to Colombo, Sri Lanka

✈️ Flying from Birmingham to Colombo: A Journey Through the Skies

Although there are no direct flights from Birmingham Airport (BHX) to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, travellers have several convenient one-stop options:

– Popular Airlines with One Stop:
– Emirates via Dubai – approx. 13h to 15h
– Qatar Airways via Doha – approx. 13h 50m
– Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi – approx. 13h 5m
– Turkish Airlines via Istanbul – approx. 14h 10m
– Pegasus Airlines via Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen – approx. 15h to 16h

British holidaymakers choose Sri Lanka - Why?

🌿 Why British Travellers from Birmingham Are Choosing Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s blend of tropical beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality resonates with UK holidaymakers looking for something beyond the ordinary.

Ella’s Hill Country Highlights:
– Guests at GlenMyu Estate often take day trips to Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall, and Little Adam’s Peak
– The cooler climate and scenic train rides offer a refreshing contrast to the UK’s own green hills

Off-the-Beaten-Path Appeal:
– GlenMyu Estate is ideal for those seeking peaceful surroundings, away from crowded tourist zones

A Culinary Retreat

🍞 GlenMyu Estate: A Culinary Experience with British-Friendly Flair

British guests appreciate the thoughtful approach to food at GlenMyu Estate, where flavour meets finesse.

– Freshly Baked Breads:
– Baguettes, rolls, and breakfast breads made daily by Ru and her team
– Homemade Jams:
– Crafted from fruits grown on the estate’s garden—seasonal, sweet, and local
– Sri Lankan-European Fusion Cuisine:
– Ru’s 16 years in the UK have shaped her culinary style: flavourful but not overly spicy, tailored to suit European palates while preserving Sri Lankan essence.

A Boutique Stay

🌺 Why GlenMyu Estate Appeals to British Travellers from Birmingham

– A serene location with easy access to Ella’s top sights
– Personalised service and warm hospitality
– A culinary experience that blends comfort, creativity, and local ingredients

So, the verdict is

📌 Conclusion: From Birmingham to Serendipity

With flexible flight options, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable meals, Sri Lanka is becoming a top choice for British travellers.

GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and gourmet indulgence—making every trip feel like a true escape.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

From Birmingham to Sri Lanka Read More »

Inspiration to write at the swimming pool.

The Best Homestay in Sri Lanka?

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Best Homestay in Sri Lanka?

Is this the Best Homestay in Sri Lanka?

GlenMyu Estate is a bed and breakfast that offers a lot more.

Guests have regularly commented that they can’t believe that GlenMyu Estate is a homestay.

We try to make our guests feel that they are friends and are able to properly relax without the formality of a five star hotel.

What is a Homestay?

In Sri Lanka a homestay is defined by the Sri Lankan Tourist Development Authority as follows;

“a house occupied by a family with guest rooms that are ready to accommodate and provide services to paying guests, where the guests and the host family interact with each other, immersing themselves in Sri Lankan culture and experiencing authentic Sri Lankan hospitality”.

There should be a minimum of one and a maximum of four rooms.

Although GlenMyu Estate is a B & B, it does also fit into the definition of a homestay.

A homestay in Sri Lanka with a difference.

Designed with a balance of luxury and comfort.

The house at GlenMyu Estate was only completed in 2021.

It is set in five acres and there are only three guest bedrooms. There is a feeling of luxury knowing that you don’t have to share the space with many other guests when you holiday in Sri Lanka.

The property has been designed so that there is a contemporary but natural feel.

Locally sourced wood is blended with cool titanium concrete floors.
Large windows look out over the stunning Sri Lankan landscape and appear to let nature in.

More than just a stay

We had Polish guests last year, and Greg, said in his review that GlenMyu Estate was more than just a stay, it was an experience.

You can read Greg’s Google review by clicking on the following link.

Please read our other reviews in Booking.com, Airbnb, and Tripadvisor.

The food - not a typical homestay in Sri Lanka

Normally in a homestay in Sri Lanka you would have typically rice and curry for most meals. They will be delicious as the dishes will be made from locally sourced ingredients and cooked by experienced cooks.

At GlenMyu Estate, we offer both traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, and also fusion dishes made with the best local ingredients that we can source.

Ruwanthi did a short Le Cordon Bleu course whilst she lived in London and is growing a reputation for her food in Sri Lanka.

Please click on our food menus to see what types of dishes we offer to our guests.

A Sri Lankan Cookery Demonstration

One of the things that we do which you would often have the opportunity to see is a Sri Lankan cooking demonstration at a homestay in Sri Lanka.

We have found that with the successes of contestants Brin Paripathan and Sav Perera in UK Masterchef and Australian Masterchef, there has been a heightened interest in Sri Lankan food.

Our own ‘Masterchef’ is Ruwanthi’s mother, who has over fifty years of experience cooking delicious Sri Lankan dishes.

Getting an authentic taste of Sri Lankan food is a real benefit when staying at a homestay.

As Ruwanthi lived in the UK for many years before returning to Sri Lanka, she is able to temper the level of chilli to the Western palette.

A garden tour at a homestay in the Sri Lankan Hill country

We feel extremely fortunate to live in the area of this paradise island that we do.

The estate sits at an elevation of around 1,000 metres above sea level and the climate enables us to grow a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and spices.

There are lots of organised spice garden tours around the country. It’s great seeing what is grown, but what we don’t like is the hard sell to buy some products as you leave.

Ruwanthi really enjoys delivering an informal garden tour which is complimentary for our guests. And, there is nothing to buy at the end of your walk!

The best homestay in Sri Lanka?

At GlenMyu Estate, we are not interested in titles and accolades.

All we want is for our guests to have the nest time on their holiday in Sri Lanka….and want to come back again.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

The Best Homestay in Sri Lanka? Read More »

Planning your Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Holiday, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Traditional British Sunday Dinner, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

A Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka

A Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka.

Planning to spend your Christmas vacation on a paradise island?

Why Sri Lanka is a good option.

Sri Lanka is a popular place to visit during Christmas vacation.

It’s a great place to escape the miserable weather in Northern Europe and the US.

The island offers a variety of things to do for most travellers.
Whether you are a beach lover, want to see wildlife and culture or like to hike, we have it all.

Find out why you should consider a holiday in Sri Lankan for your Christmas vacation this year.

The best places to visit in Sri Lanka during your Christmas vacation

The weather is the key factor when deciding the places that you should visit in Sri Lanka in December.

Did you know that the island has two monsoon seasons?

The good news is that during December you can visit quite a lot of the country.

You will need to avoid the East and North coast in December if you don’t want to get wet!

The Meteorology Department of Sri Lanka is a good place to do some research on what the weather will be like when you visit the island.

Go to the section “Climate Seasons” to read about the monsoon seasons.

As you will see the Northeast Monsoon hits the country from December through to February. Therefore if you want the beach you should stay on the south and west coasts during your Christmas vacation.

A Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka. So, where should I go in December?

The Southern and Western beaches on the island are great places to visit during the Christmas vacation for some sun and surfing.

You can also visit the Central Hills, Nuwara Eliya and Ella during this period. Lots of our guests at GlenMyu Estate love the hike at Horton Plains National Park.

The cultural triangle, in Sri Lanka’s central plains which consists of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Dambulla are also good to visit.

Kandy and the Cultural Triangle

Sri Lanka’s Cultural triangle is situated in the centre of the island.

It covers an area which includes the World Heritage cultural sites:
The Sacred City of Anuradhapura, the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, the Ancient City of Sigiriya, the Ancient City of Dambulla and the Sacred City of Kandy.

In Kandy to visit the Temple of the Tooth and Peradeniya Botanical gardens.

Kandy is also a popular place to catch the train to Ella and enjoy the stunning scenery on the way.

You must see Ella and Nine Arch Bridge

Ella is one of the most popular tourist spots in Sri Lanka. Historically it was difficult to get to and the main travellers were backpackers.

Since its development and better travel links the town has boomed.

Crowds visit Nine Arch Bridge, which is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country.

A selfie as a train goes over the bridge is a must and you will see a throng of people waiting in anticipation of the train. Beware though, it is common that Sri Lankan trains run late!

Your Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka -Away from the crowds

If you want to be away from the crowds, as GlenMyu Estate only has three guest bedrooms, you can have a unique Christmas in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

Within reach of Ella, you can do a day trip and see the sights around the town.

There are also some fabulous things to see and do near to GlenMyu Estate.

Some of our guests just stay at the estate and get some real downtime in a peaceful landscape.

Please read our reviews on Booking,com, Airbnb and Google.

Christmas at GlenMyu Estate

GlenMyu Estate was only opened in late 2021 so we now have a few Christmases under our belt.

Throughout the year our several of our guests enjoy our Traditional Roast Chicken dinner. For the festive season we jazz it up to reflect the colours and tastes you would expect over the holidays.

We cater for Plant Based, Vegan and vegetarian diets, so don’t worry, you won’t miss out on the festivities.

The house is decorated to reflect the season and lots of the trinkets are made on site by the staff from natural products from the estate.

A Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka

So, if you are looking to have a unique Christmas vacation on a tropical island, then Sri Lanka is a good choice.

We would recommend booking early as Sri Lanka’s tourist numbers are increasing rapidly. Arrivals doubled in December 2023 compared to the previous year and the country has ambitious targets for the coming peak tourist season.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate over the festive season and explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Planning your Christmas Vacation in Sri Lanka Read More »

UK overtakes Russian tourist Numbers visiting Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Cooking, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

The UK overtakes Russian tourist numbers visiting Sri Lanka

In August 2024 it was reported that the UK overtakes Russian tourist numbers visiting Sri Lanka.

Now the UK is the 2nd largest source market in cumulative tourist arrivals.

India is still number one, but at GlenMyu Estate, we are finding that more visitors from the UK are discovering the island,

Sri Lankan Tourist Numbers

Over the last few years, since Sri Lankan tourists numbers started increasing, the main source markets were India and Russia.

Historically, Sri Lanka was a favourite destination for travellers from the UK.

It appears that the UK has found Sri Lanka again and now delivers the second highest number of tourists to Sri Lanka.

You can read more about this in the Sri Lankan Daily Mirror Article.

Sri Lankan Tourists numbers are published weekly by the Sri Lankan Tourist Development Authority.

We feel that we are at a bit of an advantage

GlenMyu Estate is owned and run by Ruwanthi who lived in the UK for about 16 years.

I am from the UK and travelled to the island for many years before relocating from London, UK.

As we have this Sri Lankan/UK mix, we feel that we have an advantage communicating and understanding our guests needs.

Great food - not too spicy!

Another advantage is that we are used to cooking for Western palettes.

In London, our flat was the place that all our friends wanted to come for dinner.

Ruwanthi understands that most people cannot handle the levels of chilli, salt and pepper that most Sri Lankans would add to their dishes.

Lots of visitors from all around the World

We love meeting people from places that we haven’t visited ourselves and get to know more about places from our guests.

Lots of our guests come from the UK, Ireland, France, Belgium and Germany. We are seeing more visitors from Spain, Italy and Portugal.

During August we have had visitors from Australia, New Zealand, Israel and the US and Canada. More Australians are finding Sri Lanka again and exploring the Hill country and East coast during their winter.

We find that we also have a lot of guests from Scandinavia, escaping the winter during the peak tourist season from December to April.

It has been very interesting us meeting guests from Kazakhstan, Slovenia, Poland and the Czech Republic.

Both my wife and I feel that we get to see more of the World through our guests eyes.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

UK overtakes Russian tourist Numbers visiting Sri Lanka Read More »

Sri Lanka aims for 3 million tourists

Accommodation, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Little Adam's Peak, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka aims for 3 million tourists

The Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority are aiming for an influx of 3 million tourists in 2025.

It’s a steep rise from the 1.6 million that arrived in 2023. The target in 2024 is 2.3 million.

A huge rise in tourist numbers

Usefully, the Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority (SLDTA) publishes monthly tourist arrivals so you can see the increasing trend of visitors to the island.

Overtourism?

We have read so many articles about overtourism in parts of Europe and the Americas.

At this stage, Sri Lanka is welcoming tourists and will continue to do so for a long tome in the future.

Finding less crowded places

We have found at GlenMyu Estate that there is a desire to seek our less crowded places. Off the Beaten Track or Path are the aims of lots of tourists who want do something different.

GlenMyu Estate is a different experience on the island.

How to avoid the crowds

We think that the best chance of avoiding the crowds is to get up early to see the sights.

I know that this is the opposite of what you want from a holiday. However, you will have plenty of time to relax in the afternoon. Perhaps you can catch up on the missed sleep by taking a siesta!

3 guests bedrooms on 5 acres of land

At GlenMyu Estate, we deliberately did not want to develop too many properties on the five acre estate.

Sure, we don’t make as much money as a “proper” commercial business, however we want our guests to enjoy the space.

Restoring the land so that it attracts a wider range of biodiversity improving its’ health is also important to us. We believe in providing space to share the property with animals and wildlife.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Sri Lanka aims for 3 million tourists Read More »

Free Visa Access to Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka Visa - free visa access to 31 countries!

We were delighted to read in the press that Sri Lanka will allow free visa access to 31 countries from the 1st October 2024.

Is my country on the list?

Here is a list of countries in alphabetical order that on on the list for free visa access to Sri Lanka.

Australia, Austria,
Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium
Canada, China, Czech Republic,
Denmark,
France,
Germany,
India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy,
Japan
Kazakhstan
Malaysia
Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand
Oman
Poland
Qatar
Russia
Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Thailand
United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States

3 million tourists in 2025?

Sri Lanka is aiming to welcome 3 million tourists in 2024. The access free visa to enter Sri Lanka for the 31 countries will help the country towards this target.

GlenMyu Estate is looking forward to meeting new guests in 2024

GlenMyu Estate has only been open since 2022 and already we have several returning guests.

We only have three bedrooms on the five acre estate and therefore we can foresee limited capacity in 2024 due to the expected increase in visitors to the country.

GlenMyu Estate is great for those travellers that want to escape from the busy tourist town of Ella and avoid the crowds. Our guests regularly do day trips to Ella to see the sights and return to the peace and quiet of the estate. There are also many more places to explore and experience within a short drive of the estate.

We recommend that guests stay at least three nights as there is so much to see when you visit the Sri Lankan hill country.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Free Visa Access to Sri Lanka Read More »

Vegan desserts - Cinnamon and Pineapple Sorbet

Vegan friendly hotel in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Food and Drink, Holiday, Organic, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Plant Based Menu, Recipes, Ru's Recipes, Sri Lankan Cooking, sri lankan recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian / By Mikeez

Vegan friendly hotel in Sri Lanka

A Vegan friendly hotel in Sri Lanka.

At GlenMyu Estate, Beragala, Sri Lanka we continue to develop our Vegan offerings to our guests.

Our menu is not fully Vegan, as we know that all of our guests are not ready for this.

However, as we increase the level of plant based dishes on our menu we find that more guests are selecting these options.

Our ice cream made without dairy and using unrefined sugar (locally sourced Kithul treacle) is becoming a favourite choice.

Inspired by Brin Pirathapan, the winner of UK Masterchef 2024, we are developing a new range of sorbets experimenting with great locally sourced ingredients.

Naturally plant based in Sri Lanka

We feel that we are already at an advantage in Sri Lanka when it comes to Vegan or Plant based food.

Sri Lanka has lots of Plant Based dishes in its’ normally repertoire of dishes.
You will find that lots of the staple Rice and Curries served on the island are vegan, vegetarian or plant based naturally.

We however suggest that you ask whether there is any meat, poultry or fish in the dishes that you order to avoid any hiccups!

GlenMyu Estate is based in the Sri Lanka hill country, just an hours drive from the tourist town of Ella.

Since we opened in 2022, GlenMyu Estate has continued to develop its’ Vegan friendly menu for our guests.

Fresh local ingredients ,make it easier.

This paradise island in the Indian Ocean provide a bounty of produce which makes it easier to provide plant based dishes for our guests.

The coconuts are amazing and are an important ingredient in lots of our dishes.

We are making more varieties of ice cream using coconut milk and our guests love it. Coconuts are sourced locally, some from our neighbours and scrape at least one coconut a day.

Plant based cakes

When our guests arrive in the early afternoon we like to offer them locally sourced organic tea along with a pice of cake.

Bibbikan is a traditional Sri Lankan coconut cake which is plant based. We also only use unrefined sugar making this guest favourite. Locally sourced Kithul Treacle makes this a special cake to enjoy at GlenMyu Estate.

Whats on the menu at GlenMyu Estate?

Our menus are changed and updated regularly.

For our current menu and prices please click on the following link.

Plant based breakfast options

From the local Sri Lankan rice porridge and healthy leaf drink to twists on Sri Lankan fusion dishes, breakfast is always enjoyable at GlenMyu Estate.

We make sure that our guests are set up for the day with a variety of dishes.

Some of our plant based starters and mains

Freshly made soups with homemade breads.

Delicious homemade pastas, Jackfruit dishes with the jackfruit picked from the trees next to the lawn and our sharing platter. Staying several days at GlenMyu Estate will not exhaust the choice of vegan and plant based dishes we have on our menu.

Sometimes you can accompany Ruwanthi in the garden to pick some of the produce that will be used in your meals.

Not just sorbet!

Desserts are an important part of being on holiday.

However, sometimes the only Vegan or Plant Based dessert options are just a sorbet!

We love sorbet and our Cinnamon and Pineapple sorbet is a favourite with guests but we have several other choices for you.

Catering for all our guests, whatever their dietary requirements,

It’s important for us at GlenMyu Estate to provide the best experience we can during their stay in Sri Lanka with us.

We do still offer some fish and chicken dishes on our menu to provide an alternative option.
What we do find, however, is that once our guests have tasted our Plant Based dishes, they are happy to have a meat free stay.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Vegan friendly hotel in Sri Lanka Read More »

Galle Literary Festival 23-28 January 2024

Accommodation, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

The Galle Literary Festival 2024, Sri Lanka.

The Galle Literary Festival 2024, Sri Lanka.

After a five year hiatus the Galle Literary Festival too place in January 2024.

In attendance were authors including Booker Prize-winning authors, Shehan Karunatilake and DBC Pierre.

Decorated war correspondent, Christina Lamb, together with Nujeen Mustafa, co-author and subject of her award-winning book, The Girl from Aleppo.

Novelist and screenwriter, Anthony Horowitz.
Ukranian writer and intellectual, Andrey Kurkov.

Alexander McCall Smith, acclaimed author of more than 119 books

A successful event

The Sri Lankan Sunday Times said that there were more than 5000 visitors at the Galle Literary Festival in January 2024.

The star-studded speaker list featured 25 local and 27 international authors.

Historian Peter Frankopan, called the Festival a “joy from start to finish.”

What is it and where is it?

Galle Literary Festival comprises of a schedule of more than 180 events included talks and panel discussion.

The Festival also had interactive workshops, film screenings, an immersive Art Trail and a Children’s Programme.

The festival takes place in Galle Fort which is on the southern coast of Sri Lanka

A literary Festival, Gourmet Galle, an Art Trail and a children's festival

Galle Literary Festival is not just a book festival.

Coinciding with the literary festival was Gourmet Galle. Each weekend between January and March, Gourmet Galle hosted an internationally renowned chef in different boutique venues across the South Coast. Find out more by clicking on the link below.

An Art Trail also took place which consisted of programme of curated art exhibitions, artists’ tours and open houses

The children’s festival was a calendar of creative workshops and storytelling sessions.

The junior programme was designed to inspire the next generation of avid readers and aspiring writers.

What about the Galle Literary Festival in 2025?

Please keep an eye on the Galle Literary Festival website for details of speakers, tickets and the events programme.

Next years event takes place on the 6th – 9th February 2025 in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka

Stay at GlenMyu Estate before making your way to Galle

We have had several guests that have stayed at GlenMyu Estate prior to heading to the south coast for the festival.

Some authors have stayed with us whilst they were editing their books. One of those authors took part in Galle Literary Festival 2024.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Galle Literary Festival 23-28 January 2024 Read More »

The best places for female solo travel in 2024

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

The Best Places for Solo Female Travel - Sri Lanka 2024

Time Out’s best places for female solo travel in 2024 has been released.

The number one destination for solo female travel is Sri Lanka!

The Time Out article was written by India-Jayne Trainor is a British-Australian travel writer based in London.

It states that “according to a recent survey, over half of Gen Z women would consider travelling abroad alone”

According to McKinsey.com “Generation Z comprises people born between 1996 and 2010. This generation’s identity has been shaped by the digital age, climate anxiety, a shifting financial landscape, and COVID-19.”

Sri Lanka is considered “the perfect first stop for female travellers wanting to dip into South Asia”.

Lots of solo travellers have stayed with us

We have been a little bit surprised at the number of solo travellers that have stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate.

They have mainly been solo female travellers, however we do get the occasional solo male traveller.

As we only have three bedrooms there is usually another one or two guests to interact with when staying at GlenMyu Estate.

Opportunities to share experiences

We have found that some guests like eating on their own and keeping themselves to themselves.
Most however, are happy to join the other guests for meals which provides a great opportunity to share stories.

It’s also great to get recommendations from other travellers on what to do and what to see at GlenMyu Estate and on the next part of their tour around the island.

Dinner with your hosts

I always found it uncomfortable being at a hotel and telling the waiter I needed a table for one.

We understand this is a not what some guest want and we are happy to join with the guests for their meals if they want.
Both my wife and I don’t tend to eat much in the evenings, however we are always happy to have a chat and we enjoy a good conversation with people that stay.

Why travel on your own?

Some of our guests have travelled on their own because they are single or their partner couldn’t get the time off from work to join them.

Others just like to travel on their own. There are opportunities to explore places without the distractions of other people.

Other things reading about tips for solo female travellers.

She Needs Less states in their article that solo female travel “It provides a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, build confidence and create unforgettable memories. “

Sri Lanka is no 15 on Headout.com’s list of “16 Safe Female Solo Travel Destinations”.

They state that as the country is ” predominantly Buddhist, women traveling alone will find the nation to be very hospitable and safe”.

They also advise that you should dress conservatively is some locations, especially when you are visiting temples.

We would also recommend that you read the article by Life of Brit “The Complete Guide To Solo Travel in Sri Lanka”.

She advises that “it’s always important to be in the know, stay vigilant and trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right.”.

Why do solo travellers stay at GlenMyu Estate?

Solo travellers stay with us at GlenMyu Estate for a number of reasons.

Because of what people write about us
Our rating on booking sites, google and TripAdvisor.

We are really proud of the reviews that our guests have written about their stay. The food, being closer to nature, the animals, the rooms and the wonderful views are common themes on what’s written.

To be off the beaten track
Away from the bustle of Ella
Being away from the crowds of the busy tourist town of Ella is a regular wish from many guests.

Because they are worth it
A little bit of luxury in between hostels.
Several of our solo travellers have spent time in hostels in Kandy or Ella where they have met other travellers. They treat themselves by spending two or three days in the luxury of GlenMyu Estate going them lots of variety on their holiday.

To explore the great sights near to GlenMyu Estate

There are lots of superb places to explore on a day trip from GlenMyu Estate.

If you are into hiking we are close to several sections of the new Pekoe Trail.
Several of our guests have enjoyed the hikes near Lipton’s Seat, Haputale and Idalgashinna Railway station. We can arrange a guide to accompany you if you feel safer with some company.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall is an amazing experience.

It’s a 45 minute to 1 hour Tuk Tuk ride from GlenMyu Estate.

We can supply you with a trusted Tuk Tuk driver who will take you to Diyaluma Waterfall. He will show you the best route and look after your belongings as you are enjoying the stunning pools.

Our thoughts and reccommendations as for solo travellers in Sri Lanka.

Although Sri Lanka may be number one in the Time Out list, we would recommend you not to be too complacent.

Unfortunately, being a tourist in one of the tourist spots does attract some conmen, whatever country you visit.

We recommend that you make sure you keep en eye on your belongings at all times.

Overall, like anywhere, you just need to be vigilant and consider the risks on where you are going before you jump in.

Getting around the island safely.

If you are using a Tuk Tuk, make sure it has a meter or a price is agreed prior to your journey.
Put Google Maps on to ensure that you are travelling the shortest route to your planned destination.

We had some girls from Austria stay with us and they booked all their taxis through Booking.com as the journeys were tracked on the system,

Arrange with your accommodation for a driver to pick you up from the railway station or bus stand. They are more likely to send a driver that they know and trust and who knows their way to the accommodation.

Uber is a good option to use when you are in some of the larger cities and towns such as Colombo, Galle and Kandy.

Keep cash to a minimum.

There are lots of businesses in Sri Lanka that only accept cash as they don’t have card facilities.

Ensure that you keep the mimimim amount of cash on your person.

You can always use an ATM if you need to take out more cash.

Check with your hotel whether they take cards or whether you can transfer to a bank account using Wise, Revolut, Paypal or XM.

This will help you manage the amount of cash you need to keep on you.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

There are lots of wonderful experiences to have on and off the estate.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

The best places for female solo travel in 2024 Read More »

Amazing Hotels in Sri Lanka. Ceylon tea Trails

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Mini Adam's Peak, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Amazing Hotels in Sri Lanka.

Ceylon Tea Trails -Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder venture in the Highlands of Sri Lanka in a BBC documentary.

The BBC documentary series; Amazing Hotels – Life Behind the Lobby, was initially aired in September 2023 according to the IMDB website.

It stars Monica Galetti and Rob (Robert Rinder).

Monica is a Masterchef Judge, Amazing Hotels presenter, author and chef owner of Mere Restaurant and Bar.

Judge Rob Rinder is a broadcaster, columnist, barrister, former Strictly Come Dancing contestant and author. He had his own TV show Judge Rinder.

Growing tourist numbers

The documentary came to my notice when an old colleague of mine mentioned that it had been aired in Ireland in March 2024.

Sri Lanka is already seeing a surge in tourism numbers. The airing of this documentary is expected to highlight the island as a great place to go on holiday.

Tourist numbers for December 2023 to February 2024 doubled each month compared to the previous year.

The country welcomed just over 200,000 visitors per month. There is a peak tourist season in Sri Lanka from December to the start of April. This is when travellers want to escape the northern hemisphere winter. However, the country is now being marketed as an all year round destination. The Eastern and Northern Coasts, along with the Central Hills, are good to visit when the monsoon hots the South and West of the island.

You can track the tourist arrivals at the Sri Lankan Tourist Development Authority website.

Ceylon Tea Trails

You can see the details of the colonial bungalows that Monica and Rob visited by clicking in the link to the Resplendent Ceylon website.

The concept was created by the Fernando family who are Sri Lankan tea producers and the founders of Dilmah Ceylon Tea.

Most of the bungalows are located near to Hatton which is ideal for getting to Adam’s Peak. The overnight pilgrimage season is between December and May annually.

At the time of the documentary release in the UK there was lots of press in Sri Lanka and abroad about the celebrities time on the island.

The Central Hills of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has an amazing offering of hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfast along with homestay providing a wide range of experiences.

At GlenMyu Estate we have had several guests who have visited Haputale and Ella after completing their Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) hike. The temperatures in the hill country can be cooler, and a bit of a relief from the highs around the island.

Inspiration to go on an adventure

Sri Lanka appears to be rising on wish lists of places to visit.

We, at GlenMyu Estate, have found that more Australians are finding us. There are also many more europeans outside the regular French, German and British visitors.

What we love is that when the guests arrive at GlenMyu Estate, they have already had an incredible experience as they have travelled around the island.

The welcome that they have received from local people, the wonderful sights they have seen make us thankful to be able to live in Sri Lanka.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Amazing Hotels in Sri Lanka. Ceylon tea Trails Read More »

Off-Grid Holiday -Cliff Lodge, Haputale, Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

An off-grid holiday in Sri Lanka

An off-grid holiday in Sri Lanka.

The Cliff Lodge, Haputale was featured on Channel 5’s series, Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild.

The programme aired on the UK’s Channel 5 on the 6th February 2024.

What is an Off-Grid holiday

Sawdays describe an Off-Grid Holiday as “Our off-grid places to stay harness a strong commitment to the environment. They are in beautifully remote regions and encourage you to spend most of your day outdoors.

The Independent Online article “Why ‘going off-grid’ is the next big travel trend” of 15th March 2022.
It stated that “At the beginning of 2022, rentals website One Off Places spotted that their “off-grid” category had zoomed into the top 10 most-browsed sections.”.

The idea of a complete escape (no phones ringing, no emails to answer, no TV schedule to keep up with) can be extremely appealing to many people.

About The Cliff Lodge, Haputale

The Cliff Lodge consists of four glass pods and provides an opportunity to reconnect with the wilderness, as there is no hot water, electric or gas.

The journey to Cliff Lodge passes a Mountain Range, Tea Plantations and near to the famous Lipton’s Seat.
Lipton’s Seat was the point where Scottish Tea Baron, Sir Thomas Lipton used to sit and survey his vast tea empire in Sri Lanka.

This off-grid holiday allows you to “The Most Remote Glamping Lodge in the Mountains of Haputale, Sri Lanka”.

Read all about The Cliff Lodge by visiting their website.

We, at GlenMyu Estate have had guests that have stayed at The Cliff Lodge and have had an amazing experience.

You can contact The Cliff Lodge and see their location at their website.

February 6th 2024 - The Channel 5 Documentary with Ben Fogle

There was a lot of press about the programme.

The Daily Mail Online has a clip and a commentary about the episode “A couple told Channel 5’s New Lives in the Wild about their move to Sri Lanka “.

The couple, Anke and Naveen, told Ben Fogle how they escaped the rat-race in London to live off-grid on top of a mountain in Sri Lanka

Memorable TV Online states that ” Ben Fogle embarks on a journey to Sri Lanka, a stunning island nestled in the Indian Ocean.”.

He meets Anke and Naveen who “he couple resides in the peaceful remains of a tea plantation, embracing an entirely off-grid existence. “.

TV Guide states that Ben discussed why the couple moved away from civilisation, the struggles they had settling into their new lives and if they mean to entirely sever their ties with the outside world

The best of both worlds

Variety is the price of life. You may want to experience a mixture of Off-Grid living and a little bit of luxury whilst on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Perhaps a stay at The Cliff Lodge followed by some days at GlenMyu Estate will provide you with this experience.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations. These include Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Off-Grid Holiday -Cliff Lodge, Haputale, Sri Lanka Read More »

The House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and B & B, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Save money on your holiday – book directly

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Save money on your holiday - book directly with us.

Save money on your holiday.

Book directly with us at GlenMyu Estate and avoid the booking fees charged by intermediaries.

We love it when guests book directly with us.

By offering a direct booking rate you save money and we feel good.

I especially feel great because you have found our website and WhatsApp button. It means all my efforts of keeping our website up to date is worth it.

We can offer better deals.

You will be aware that the intermediary companies charge a fee for booking through them.

We still think that they are great because they have brought lots of guests to us at GlenMyu Estate.

Some people feel more comfortable booking through these companies and they serve them well.

Every dollar or euro counts.

When you budget for your holiday it is important to keep an eye on what you spend. By contacting us directly and asking for a direct booking rate we will do the best price we can.

We hope that, after your experience at GlenMyu Estate, you will want to come back and stay with us again.

With the costs that you have back in your home country we are aware that every dollar counts.

Please also look at our food menus on our website so you can budget for the extra meals and drinks that you will have when you stay with us.

The Sri Lankan Hill country has so many places to visit that two or three days are not enough. We will offer better rates for the longer you stay.

Press the WhatsApp button on our website to contact us about direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Save money on your holiday – book directly Read More »

An inspirational landscape to paint

Accommodation, Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka, Photography, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

An inspirational landscape to paint in Sri Lanka

An inspirational landscape to paint in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

This landscape need painting and photographing!

The continual changing view from GlenMyu Estate really needs to be captured in paint or by camera.

Using painting a stress relief.

Focusing on painting allows mne’ mind to relax and let go of all the problems and demands that may have led to stress.
Creating something beautiful through painting stimulates the creative mind while also relieving mental strain.

A comfortable temperature in an inspirational landscape

The temperature in the hill country means that it is easy to paint outdoors for a long part of day.

It’s worth bringing a hat as the sun can be intense at midday.

The best light is in the early morning an mid to late afternoon.

Whether a portrait, landscape, cloudscape, flora or fauna, there is something to fit most interests at GlenMyu Estate.

The elevation delivers a unique and inspirational landscape

GlenMyu Estate is around 1,000 metres above sea level. Sometimes the clouds are above a below the house. At certain times of the year the mist touches the glass windows for a while providing a unique atmosphere.

The colours in the sky change throughout the year providing an array of colours or shades of grey during the rainier months.

Whatever the weather, this inspirational landscape is inspiring and needs to be captured.

There are lots of opportunities around the five acre estate to find yourself a quiet place to practice your art.

The changes in light in the Sri Lankan Hill Country and the array of colours provide you with a varying landscape.

Looking for the best light

Capturing the colours as the light goes down, especially the we have a beautiful sunset sky would be a good way to record your stay at GlenMyu Estate .

A distraction to everyday life

Painting on holiday serves as a distraction to everyday life and gives some balance in your life.

It allows you to get into a flow and focus your attention on the job at hand. It gives you time to disconnect from the real world and have time for yourself.

An inspirational landscape - Surrounded by nature.

Our natural spring fed swimming pool is a place to relax and get some inspiration.

One of our guests spent time with her pencils and sketchpad and spent some hours drawing next to the pool. It was a relaxing experience whilst carrying out her passion which she couldn’t do in her busy workalike at home.

Animal and bird photography

There are lots of opportunities for bird and animal photography around the estate. We can’t guarantee what visitors we will have but you are likely to see a variety of birds and two types of monkeys during your stay.

Surrounded by inspirational landscapes.

There are also many places near to GlenMyu Estate that need to be captured on canvas.

Inspirational places like Horton Plains National Park, Diyaluma and Bambarakanda Waterfalls and Lipton’s Seat are all iconic places.

I dint remember seeing any paintings or drawings of these vistas. and therefore, perhaps you can be the trailblazer artist in the area.

Pack all your painting equipment when you come on holiday.

Make sure that you have all that you need for painting or drawing on your holiday to capture this inspirational landscape.

In the Hill Country you will not be able to pick up a spare brush or paint easily.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and practice your art.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and get inspired by the landscape and surroundings.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

An inspirational landscape to paint Read More »

A writers retreat in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Life in Sri Lanka, Photography, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

A writers retreat in Sri Lanka.

A writers retreat in Sri Lanka.

Where can I stay when I want the peace, tranquility and inspirations to write when on holiday in Sri Lanka?

We have been asked by several guests whether we would offer a discount for a longer term stay at GlenMyu Estate.

The main reason a writer would request a longer stay is to be in a place which is comfortable for that length of time.
It also provides the opportunity to write or pursue their artistic endeavour.

Some guests have been completing or editing their book whilst staying at GlenMyu Estate.

During this stage of the writing process you need to be in a place of tranquility where you can concentrate on your masterpiece. Having the occasional guest of travellers pass through on their exploration of the island provides some relief and conversation from the endeavours of work.

As long as our internet speed is fast enough for you, and you don’t mind the odd dog or two breaking up the monotony of the day, we are happy to accommodate writers and artists.

What does a writer want from a writing retreat?

A writing retreat could be just what you need to start that novel, finish your chapter, book or poetry. Perhaps it’s a time to revise the short story you’ve been meaning to send out.

The main thing is that your writing retreat gives you a focused break from the trivial distractions of life that keep you from deep diving into the big picture of your personal story.

At GlenMyu Estate we offer a peaceful environment where you can concentrate on your artistic endeavours.

As there will be other travellers coming and going during your stay, you will have the opportunity to meet new, interesting people, outside your normal circles. You never know what conversations may generate an idea or storyline for your to develop.

A chance to get over what's in the way of you finsing your book.

One of the best ways to handle any and all writer issues is to take some time out for a writer’s retreat. Shutting your outside world out and go on a writing vacation may help you progress your writing or get some new inspiration.

A change in environment may help you and the Sri Lankan hill country offers something different that being at home.

You can unwind and not be concerned about distractions of everyday life. Escaping from all the responsibilities and sentiments for a short while will enable your to give 100 per cent to your writing.
No need to worry about the next meal, Ru will make sure you are fed with great home cooked food.

An inspirational landscape.

We believe that the landscape in the Sri Lankan Hill country has not been the subject of many paintings and drawings. It’s a landscape that appears to asking to be recorded.

The variation in the vista from the lounges with clear skies turning into fluffy clouds. Sometimes mist touching the windows of the house makes it a view that novel gets boring.

A temperature range that won't send you to sleep.

In the tropics, it’s easy to get into the habit of a siesta in the balmy weather.

The Sri Lankan Hill country however, is not as warm as the coasts and cities like Colombo, Galle and Kandy.
As the average annual temperature in Beragala is 21.3 °C ( 70.4 °F)/maximum temperature of 26.1 °C ( 78.8 °F ) you will not be knocked out by the heat.

Wake up and be ready to write after a dip in the swimming pool.

A swim in the natural spring fed swimming pool will also provide you with a refreshing wake up. This will ensure that you are ready to write. The natural surroundings may even inspire you writing your next chapter.

Press that WhatsApp button and contact us about a longer stay.

The peak season in Sri Lanka is from mid December to Mid April. During this period it will be more difficult to accommodate a longer stay at GlenMyu Estate.

We only have three bedrooms and we are finding that we are receiving some booking a year in advance.

Therefore we would recommend that you provide us with as much notice as possible to enquire about a longer stay.

Please press the WhatsApp button on our website to make your enquiry.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and write your book or paint the landscape.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

A writers retreat in Sri Lanka Read More »

Is Sri Lanka Worth Visiting?

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Here’s why we think you should visit this paradise island before it reaches its’ target of 5 million tourists.

Sri Lanka offers something for everyone.

Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of experiences for you to enjoy on holiday.

Whether you love the beach, history, culture, hiking, animals or nature it packs in a lot for a small island (similar in size to Ireland).

If you are after nightlife then stopping in Colombo, Galle, Kandy or Ella should keep you entertained.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting? It is for the variety of what's on offer.

Backpacking, climbing mountains, river rafting, whale watching, riding a zip wire and wave boarding are all on offer to get your heart racing.

Tranquil walks through nature and birdwatching tours. Yoga & meditation retreats and remote glamping are available for those who want a quieter time to work on ones soul.

Tourist numbers are going up.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

We would recommend that you visit sooner than later.

The Tourist Board in Sri Lanka has a plan to increase tourist numbers from under 2 million to 5 million by 2029.

We hope that the country will not get to a level where it needs to restrict numbers. We don’t want to be like Barcelona, The Sechelles, Bhutan, Machu Picchu, Galapagos Islands, The Forbidden City and Lord Howe Island.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?It packs a big punch for a small island.

Sri Lanka is 65,610 sq. km. in area which compares with the Republic of Ireland which is 70,273 sq. km.

The road network has been improved in more recent years however, it does take longer than anticipated to get around. We have lots of German guests at GlenMyu Estate who are used to flying down the autobahn. They are surprised when the same distance covered Sri Lanka can take three or fours times the time to complete. However, Sri Lanka is all about the journey and enjoying what you see on the way.

The variety of experiences and what you will see makes the time you spend on this paradise island worth it.

Come at different times of the year.

The country is now marketing itself as an all year round destination and a place where you will visit again and again.

Monsoons hit the North West and South East of the island at different times of the year.
This opens up parts of the island which are best to see in particular months.

The high tourist season has been during the Northern Hemisphere winter during December to March. The South and East of the country are monsoon free and getting a tan when others are shivering at home is an attractive proposition.

The North and the East.

The North and the East coasts are best seen during April or May to September when lots of European tourists are in the Mediterranean seeking the sun.

This part of the country has only been open in more recent years as it was not a place you could visit due to the civil war which ended in May 2009.

Investment in tourism has started in the North and East. Guests that have stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate have advised to go now, before it gets too busy.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting? Different months, different places to explore.

You can experience the Sri Lankan Hill country for most months in the year.

In October the island is hit by the inter Monsoon and you would need to have good luck during that month to get some rain free days.
Climate change looks like it is changing the weather patterns in Sri Lanka, so there is no guarantee that you will be basking in the sun.

Recent guests from Australia stayed at GlenMyu Estate during the tail of the Inter monsoon and had a spectacular sunrise at Lipton’s Seat. You can read about their experience on our blog post “Sri Lanka’s most beautiful place”.

So, holidaying in Sri Lanka can pose a bit of a risk however you may win by by being derived a unique experience.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?- Summary

We would say that Sri Lanka is definitely worth visiting.

From our experience every one of our guests have loved their holiday in Sri Lanka. They are amazed by the people, what they see and the food that they eat around this small island.

Come over and experience this gem before it gets too busy.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Is Sri Lanka Worth Visiting? Read More »

A Unique place to stay in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday / By Mikeez

Unique places to stay in Sri Lanka.

Where can I find a unique place to stay in Sri Lanka?

GlenMyu Estate is a boutique hotel in Beragala in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

Reasons to stay at a unique place.

There are lots of reasons why you should stay at a unique place in Sri Lanka. It really depends on your personal preference and what gets you excited.

It’s no surprise to us that there is more value in staying at independent, quirky places than run-of-the-mill chain hotels.

Since the global pandemic we also think that travellers want space and not to share a property with lots of other people.

We have three bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate and some guests do book all three rooms so that they can spend the time solely with their family and fiends.

As we started to establish the business in 2022 are staring to get busier. Some of the guests have been fortunate to book when we didn’t have any other bookings so they had the place to themselves. Due to our reputation growing, there are less nights when this happens, however you might get lucky!

Perhaps the following reason, to stay in a unique place, would be considered shallow. However, in this Instagram and Social Media age there are lots of people that want to stay in a place which has been undiscovered or to impress friends.

There are more worthy reasons to stay at a unique property such as supporting local charity work and ensuring employment for people that need the work. There are lots of places to stay in Sri Lanka that have good ethics at their heart and want to support the community and the environment.

We have been amazed and humbled by the number of guests we have met since Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. They have made a deliberate choice to spend their holiday money in this paradise island in order to support local people who have gone through a difficult period.

What makes GlenMyu Estate a unique place to stay?

We have tried to create a unique place for you to stay on holiday in Sri Lanka where you will feel so comfortable that you will be reluctant to leave.

It was important for us to provide the following for our guests:

A welcoming atmosphere where you feel at home.
Good quality accommodation where we are proud to host guests..
Comfortable spaces – bedrooms, common areas, dining and around the five acre estate.
Opportunities to mix with other guests or spend time on your own.
Great food – made with local ingredients, supporting local suppliers.
A relaxing atmosphere enabling you to get away from a busy lifestyle where you can relax and recuperate.
Enjoy the views of the beautiful countryside.
A place where you can reconnect with nature.
Activities that bring people together, whether in the swimming pool. badminton on the lawn or board games in the house.
An opportunity to understand the local culture and support local people.

And of course, there are many more reasons which you will understand when you visit GlenMyu Estate.

The food, the food!

Providing our guests with great for is so important to us.

Ruwanthi lived in the UK for over ten years and developed her skills in cooking fabulous meals.

Our apartment was where all our friends wanted to come as they knew that Ruwanthi would provide something delicious for them to taste. She completed a short Corden Bleu course and honed her skills over the years before coming back to her native country. We believe that the food we serve makes GlenMyu Estate a unique place to stay.

At GlenMyu Estate we grow a variety of fruits, vegetables and spices in our organic garden on the five acre estate. This produce is used as part of the ingredients for many of the meals that Ru makes for our guests. Ruwanthi has been creative and concocts and develops recipes that are a fusion between East and West.

Having lived in the UK she is able to adjust the seasoning and spices to suit our guests tastes. Sometimes in Sri Lanka you need a little bit of a pause from the salt, pepper and chillis added to most dishes around the island.

She also adds little twists to some of the more traditional Sri Lankan dishes that she prepares. You should try her version of Egg Hoppers for breakfast!

What do our guests say about Ruwanthi's food?

We are always delighted when guests mention how much they enjoyed the food at GlenMyu Estate in their reviews on Google, Booking.com, Airbnb and TripAdvisor.

Here are some snippets from what our guests say about the food.

The homemade food with the produce from their estate was exquisite. And our hosts were so kind and welcoming.

We could have stayed here for days. Some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in my life! It was a highlight of the trip

We had the most magical time at this wonderful place. Great location, really beautiful and clean room and the most delicious and tasting food.

Are we a unique place to stay? - we think so!

There is only one GlenMyu Estate. As we only have three guest bedrooms there is limited availability, especially during the peak holiday periods between December and April.

Additional things that make at stay at GlenMyu Estate Unique.

Our rescue dogs and other animals.

Our guests love the rescue dogs that we have on the estate. They are all vaccinated and are used to meeting guests. Clove, our first dog, really gets quickly attached to the guests. We can see that she really misses them when they go on to their next destination.

We also have ducks that forage around the estate and provides with an egg or two. They are my way to meditate watching them wander around the land finding food, communicating with each other and using the streams for bathing.

The chickens also add to the GlenMyu experience. We regularly have chicks which are cute and added source of amusement.

And finally we have our rescue cow Maali. She is a beautiful addition to the family here and provides compost for the garden. Maali has character and is happy to meet guests.

The hidden waterfall

We have a small waterfall at the lowest part of the estate. Guests have visited the waterfall and one of our visitors spent some hours there, meditating with the sound of the water in the background.

As the final approach to the waterfall is by ropes you need to be confident enough to tackle hurdle.

Ru’s mothers informal Sri Lankan cookery demonstration.

We find that guests really enjoy Ru’s mothers entertaining cookery demonstration at our outside kitchen. When guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter she normally starts the cooking demonstration are 4 p.m./4.30 p.m.

An informal garden tour by Ruwanthi.

Guests really enjoy accompanying Ru around the garden seeing what fruits, vegetables and spices we row around the five acre estate. Quite often you will also be able to pick some of the herbs or vegetables that will be used as part of the ingredients in your evening meal.

What is the best way to book a stay?

Our best rates are available by contacting us directly via WhatsApp or email. You will find a WhatsApp button on our website.

We are also listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.

A Unique place to stay in Sri Lanka Read More »

Less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples.

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples?

Are you looking for less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples? GlenMyu Estate is a boutique hotel about 1 hr away from Ella.

Our love letter to Ella Town.

We still love you and will visit you often.

Ella, what is all the fuss about?

A romantic aspiration of a visit to Ella is to travel by train over “the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka” and arrive in the beautiful hill town.

Strolling down towards the high street enjoying the small shops selling trinkets which you will mull over later during your stay.

Walking past the bars and restaurants and sitting by the window enjoying a meal together.

Reaching your accommodation and being wowed by your bedroom and the view.

Planning your excursions to Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana’s Cave and Ravana Waterfall.

Wandering around Ella Spice Garden and experiencing a Tea Plantation.

Afternoons and early evenings having around in a hip bar enjoying a snack and drink together.

Deciding whether you will get up early and catch the sun together in a breathtaking spot.

Will you sleep in or try to get that romantic time together that you will remember for years to come?

The most 'Instgramable' place in Sri Lanka?

I don’t even know if that’s a word – but you get what I mean.

Must see places to visit in and around Ella.

Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana’s Cave and Ravana Waterfall.

Wandering around Ella Spice Garden and experiencing a Tea Plantation.

Another must do is to have a meal in a drink at one of the cool restaurants in Ella High Street. Sitting there at a window seat watching the world go by at Chill Cafe, Rainbow Cafe or The Barn by Starbeans.

Some photos of our recent trip to Ella for lunch.

We visited Ella in May 2023 for a spot of lunch and here are some photos I took on the day.

We love Ella but.....

We love Ella for the vibe that it has there, the variety of shops and bars, the opportunity to people spot and the energy it radiates. If you are looking for a bit of nightlife and the opportunity to meet other travellers this tourist town is a great option.

However, if you want to get away from the crowd and immerse yourself in nature and get to understand more about local people, staying a little outside the main town is probably a better choice.

Over development spoiling the natural beauty.

Like several other towns in Sri Lanka, Ella has seen a vast amount of development in recent years to cater for the increased tourist numbers visiting the region. The development has not been controlled which has led to the town not being as pretty as it could have been moulded into.

There is a great Blog post by ‘Forest Bird’ that gives a good history of the development of Ella and his views on what the town has become.

It’s amazing to think that Ravana waterfall was completely overgrown and you had to be a proper backpacker to see this.

I love that Ella was a remote honeymoon spot.

Have a read of the blog – it’s really interesting.

A place to Vlog

There are Vlogs from travellers of all ages providing videos and commentaries of their experience in Ella.

People love it in Ella and it’s definitely worth a visit. However, lots of our guests at GlenMyu Estate have been disappointed and felt that it was a bit too touristy.

Lots of travellers dreams are about experiencing things together with their boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife, not with lots of strangers trying to get that Instagram shot.

Here are some Vlogs about travellers experience of Ella.

A little bit further away from Ella.

There are some wonderful sights to see and experience that are a little bit further away from Ella.

Seeing the sunrise at Lipton’s Seat, near Haputale, is a wonderful experience.

Here are some photos taken by one of our guests.

An early morning visit to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall.

A little bit different.

Don’t we all want to be a little bit different and stand out from the crowd?

A unique experience is what travellers appear to be seeking nowadays.

What does your aspiration and dream of your visit to this paradise island look like?

GlenMyu Estate Boutique Hotel - something different.

GlenMyu Estate is located close to Haputale and is just over an hours drive from Ella Town. This makes it a good place to stay of you want to do a day trip to Ella to see the sights but stay in a quieter location.

As there are only three bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate in the five acre estate you will have the space to spend the time together and be away from the crowd.

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Valentines Day

Who wants to spend time with other couples on that special day with each other? I used to hate going out to overpriced restaurants to have my girlfriend (now wife) to be disappointed with the atmosphere and food.

Here are some of what our guest said about their experience at GlenMyu Estate at Valentines Day 2022.

Michael had great recommendations for, but ended up not leaving the estate at all because we were just content roaming around the beautiful estate itself with dogs, chickens, ducks and the rescue cow Maali, and enjoy the magnificent views right there. Cannot recommend this dreamy place enough!

Each dish is deliciously served in a Michelin restaurant format. We celebrated Valentine's Day here and they made a table setting with candles for us

No need to wait for Valentines Day

GlenMyu Estate can be romantic all year round..

A bath for two!

For best rates please contact us directly on WhatsApp (press the green button on this page).

We are also listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

Look at our reviews on Airbnb and Booking.com, Google or TripAdvisor.

See more about a Stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country at our website.

Follow us on our Social Media platforms.

Less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples. Read More »

A view from the lawn of the the house at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Less touristy places to stay near Ella, Sri Lanka?

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Less touristy places to stay near Ella

We find that there are more and more travellers looking for less touristy places to stay near Ella, Sri Lanka.

If you want to get away from the tourist crowd, then GlenMyu Estate Hotel is around 1 hours drive from Ella so ideal for day trips.

Ella is great.

It is a one of the most iconic places to visit in Sri Lanka hosting Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak. Ravana Waterfall, Ravana’s Cave, Ella Rock and a Zip Line.

The town’s main street has an array of popular restaurants serving a range of delicacies for hungry visitors. You can have Vegan Food, a good old hamburger, pizza and a range of traditional Sri Lankan food.

There are smaller places to eat, a little more of a Sri Lankan style scattered about the town and on the outskirts.

Those who stay in Ella and venture further afield can visit the wonder of Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Dambetenne Tea Factory, Thangamale Bird Sanctuary, Adisham Bungalow and many more places of interest.

One of the most scenic railway journeys in Sri Lanka …and the world!

Many tourists visiting Sri Lanka travel on the six to seven hour railway journey from Kandy, a former capital of the country, to Ella Railway station. The journey takes you through lush mountainous terrain with manicured tea plantations in the distance.

There are mixed views that the most beautiful part of the journey is from Nanu Oya to Ella or from Haputale to Ella. We, however, have had guests at GlenMyu Estate who enjoyed the journey an hour out from Kandy, so beauty is clearly in the eye of the beholder.

Buying tickets for the train can be a challenge. An online service was launched in early 2023 but the tickets are sold out quite early on. You can rock up to the train station and purchase the tickets on the day, if it is not fully sold out. The main issue about not purchasing a ticket in advance is that you may not get a seat and you will probably be in Thirds Class. The Third Class section is considered to be a more authentic experience of a train journey in Sri Lanka as this is where most of the local people travel by train. However, standing for six to seven hours is something that is beyond what I would accept. Unfortunately, we have had guests at GlenMyu Estate who have had to stand for most of the journey. It puts a dent into what should be a memorable experience.

Once you are on the train you can join the sheep and get your, now not so unique, instagram photo of you hanging off the train. The train does move quite slowly at times so there is on a little danger of falling off or being hit by something. Unfortunately, everyone is not so lucky and, there have been accidents and a trip to hospital as a result of trying to get your snap. Please be warned and take care

The History of Ella.

Prior to 1970 Ella was a very small town with little commercial activity. At that time there was no road to Wellawaya and ravens Waterfall was hidden in the jungle. It took a days hike in tough terrain to reach the waterfall.

In the 1970’s the Ella to Wellawaya Road was completed and was able to be navigated by a vehicle. Ella was more popular to get top by vehicle rather than by train for many years.

It was not until around 2008 that Ella became a popular back-packer’s find. This was mainly due to it being highlighted as a place to visit in the Lonely Planet Travel Guide.

In 2004, after the Tsunami, Lonely Planet introduced Ella as a comfortable backpacker location which could be reached from the Capital, Colombo, on a 10 hour train journey

Subsequently, with further improvements in infrastructure and places of interest being more accessible, more tourists started exploring the area.

You can read more about the development of Ella one the following Blog by Forest Bird.

The bars and the nightlife

Being in Sri Lanka for seven years now I do miss the atmosphere in a European bar, spending time with friends, shooting the breeze and listening to some good music. It’s a great place to meet people, share stories of touring around Sri Lanka and getting some recommendations. If I was young and single, I would love it.

I still like to go to Ella occasionally, sample the atmosphere and have something different to eat and drink.

Wanting something a little less busy?

Our experience at GlenMyu Estate is that some guests want to be located within reach of Ella so that they can see the sights there, but don’t want to be in the heart of the town. We have had guests that are young and old, with backpacks and suitcases, single, married and with children. Many of our guests want to be away from places that are too touristy (is that a word?) and experience good bars, restaurants and nightlife back in Europe.

Some of our guests spend two or three nights at GlenMyu Estate and then go to Ella and stay there for a few nights.

At the end of the day I often say “it’s horses for courses”. There is nothing wrong with Ella and thousands of people have a great time there. We actually had a honeymoon couple cancel their booking with us (quite late on) and extend their stay in Ella as they were having such a good time.

We were happy that they made that decision. Both my wife and I just wanted all travellers to Sri Lanka to have a wonderful time on this Paradise Island, return and explore some more.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and visit Ella on a day trip.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Less touristy places to stay near Ella, Sri Lanka? Read More »

The Pekoe Trail

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail

The Pekoe Trail is a newly developed 300 kilometre hike in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

It is designed as a 22–day walk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya via Ella, Haputale, and Horton Plains

You can find out more at the Pekoe Trail Website.

GlenMyu Estate is a perfect place to stay if you are tackling Stage 12 or Stage 13 of the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail is part of the European Union’s 5.7 million Euro (LKR 2.2 billion) support for Sri Lanka’s national tourism strategy. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also provided approximately $787,000 (approximately LKR 283 million) to support the trail.

Reasons to Hike the Pekoe Trail

Be one of the first!

In January 2023 Ultra Marathon Runner Hyun Chang Chung ran the 300 kilometre Pekoe Trail in 59 hours. What an achievement!

You can read more at the FT Article and watch the video which will give you a flavour of what you will experience.

By tackling the trail and recording it on on of the hiking Apps then you will help promote the hike to other walkers by sharing your experience.

Here is a video taken by Marc Ramsey in February/March 2023 which gives a beautiful insight into the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail is an example of sustainable tourism that uplifts local communities.

It also raises awareness about the importance of protecting the pristine, natural environment.

An Ultra Marathon on the Pekoe Trail

Ultramarathon trail runner Hyun Chang Chung completed his 300 km run along the Pekoe Trail, non-stop in 59 hours.

Hyun is quoted “The diversity in elevation, terrain, and environment as it winds around tea estates, nature reserves, and local communities puts The Pekoe Trail on par with some of the best trails in the world. This is my fourth visit to Sri Lanka, and I’ve found one more thing to love about it.”

Where should I stay in between stages?

As the Pekoe Trail is a newly created hike and recently they have published a list of recommended properties to stay on the trek.

GlenMyu Estate is located near t stages 12 & 13 of the Pekoe Trail and is a comfortable place to relax after an arduous hike.

The Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool is a wonderful place to ease those muscles.

We can also arrange for a masseuse to come to the estate and massage your legs so you are in better condition to attempt the next stage of the trail.

Find out more about a stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

We are listed in Airbnb and Booking.com

Horton Plains National Park

You may also be interested in a hike around the UNESCO heritage site Horton Plains National Park.

The Hike is around 1 hour 15 minutes/30 minutes drive from GlenMyu Estate.

If you want to read our Blog Post about Horton Plains National Park, Lesser World’s End, Greater World’s End and Bakers fall click HERE.

The Pekoe Trail Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 17 Demodara to Hali-Ela

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Travel / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail Stage 17

The Pekoe Trail Stage 17.

The 17th Stage of the 300 kilometre newly opened (2023) Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka is a 13 kilometres section between Demodara to Hali-Ela.
The Pekoe Trail Stage 17 is accessible from Ella.
A highlight of this stage is Demodara Railway Station which is considered a colonial era feat of engineering.

This is a video by Marc Ramsey which covers stage 17 of the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail is a newly developed 300 kilometre hike in the Sri Lankan Hill Country opened in 2023.

It was designed as a 22–day walk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya via Ella, Haputale, and Horton Plains

To find out more about the Pekoe please visit the official Pekoe Trail Website.

Why was the new trail created?

The Pekoe Trail is part of the European Union’s 5.7 million Euro (LKR 2.2 billion) support for Sri Lanka’s national tourism strategy.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also provided approximately $787,000 (approximately LKR 283 million) to support the trail.

Hiking Apps to help you navigate stage 17 of the Pekoe Trail

The following Apps will help you with this and other sections of the Pekoe Trail.

Outdooractive
AllTrails
Wikiloc

What's so fascinating aboutDemodara Railway Station?

Demodara Railway station is most notable the ‘Demodara Loop” which is named after its spiral rail line at this location.

The railway line passes under itself, going around the loop.
It emerging from a tunnel which runs directly beneath the Demodara railway station.

The rail loop is approximately 900 metres (3,000 ft) long and the tunnel is 320 m (1,050 ft) in length.

It is considered the only loop in the world with a railway station situated exactly over a tunnel at spiral loop.

The ‘Loop’ was created by engineers as they discovered that, during the construction of the rail extension to Badulla, the elevation between the hills at Demodara was too much for the track to negotiate.
At the time the maximum inclination allowed by the Government Railway was 1 foot per 44 feet (1/44)
Engineers had to come up with an innovative track design.

Why should I hike the Pekoe Trail?

For lots of reasons!

Be one of the first to experience the trail – it was only opened in 2023.

Track you hike on one of the Hiking Apps to help other walkers navigate the trail.

To experience the real Sri Lanka and meet local people on the way.

Support Sri Lanka to help it escape from the enconomic crisis.

An Ultra Marathon on the Pekoe Trail!

Sorry, if this was your plan, it’s aleady been done!
Maybe you can be the second!

Ultra Marathon Runner Hyun Chang Chung ran the 300 kilometre Pekoe Trail in 59 hours in January 2023.

You can read more at the FT Article and watch the video which will give you a flavour of what you will experience.

Are there recommended places to stay in between stages of the Pekoe Trail?

As the Pekoe Trail is a newly created hike opened in 2023 we, at GlenMyu Estate, understand that there are no official recommendations for Hotels, Guest Houses, B & B’s, Camping and Homestay stay on the trail as of yet.

We will update this information as soon as we hear that a recommended list has been published.

Update

Here is the list of places recommended by the official website.

GlenMyu Estate - Stages 10 - 17 of the Pekoe Trail.

If you are tacking Stages 10,11,12,13,14,15,16,or 17 of the Pekoe Trail then perhaps you should consider staying a few days at GlenMyu Estate.

Where can I find out more about GlenMyu Estate?

You can contact us by WhastApp be pressing the button on our Website. Alternatively you can send Michael an email.

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.

At GlenMyu Estate we have:

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views
2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house
A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool
5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host
A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature

Within reach of the following tourist sites

Diyaluma Waterfall and Upper Diyaluma Pools
Horton Plains National Park – Mini Worlds End, Worlds End and Bakers Falls
Adisham Bungalow
Lipton Seat
Dambetenna Tea Factory
Bambarakanda Waterfall
Thangamale Bird Sanctuary
Ella Town: 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak & Ravanna Waterfall.

We are listed on Booking.com & Airbnb.

Pekoe Trail Stage 17 Demodara to Hali-Ela Read More »

Pekoe Trail: Stage 16 Ella to Demodara

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Pekoe Trail Stage 16 - Ella to Demodara

Stage 16 of the Pekoe Trail covers the 8.75 kilometre hike from Ella to Demodara.

Ella Town is an established tourist hot-spot in Sri Lanka and Demodara plays host to Nine Arch Bridge which is an Instagram favourite.

What will I see on Stage 16 of the Pekoe Trail?

After travelling through beautiful mountain forests you will marvel at the famous tourist attraction, Nine Arch Bridge.

How long is my hike?

This section of the Pekoe Trail is 8.75 kilometres and according to the AllTrails App is will take just under 3 hours to complete.

What Hiking Apps are recommended to navigate the hike?

The official Pekoe Trail website recommends the following Apps:

AllTrails

Outdooractive

wikiloc

This video by Marc Ramsey will give you an glimpse of what you will encounter and see on the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail was funded by the European Union (EU).

It also had additional support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The implementation was by IESC on behalf of Sri Lanka Tourism

The First Ultra Marathon on the 300 Kilometre Pekoe Trail.

GlenMyu Estate and thePekoe Trail

At GlenMyu Estate we plan to walk and record our experience of the Pekoe Trail.

We will update our posts with commentary, photos and videos which will help you decide on whether you will tackle the Pekoe Trail.

GlenMyu Estate- an alternative to staying in Ella.

If you are looking for a place to stay where you can relax in between Stages of the Pekoe Trail, GlenMyu Estate, is good option for your to consider.

GlenMyu Estate

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views
2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house
A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool
5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host
A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature

Within reach of the following tourist sites

Diyaluma Waterfall & Upper Diyaluma Pools
Horton Plains National Park – Mini Worlds End, Worlds End & Bakers Falls
Adisham Bungalow
Lipton Seat & Dambetenna Tea Factory
Bambarakanda Waterfall
Thangamale Bird Sanctuary
Ella Town, 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak,Ravanna Waterfall

We are listed on Booking.com & Airbnb.

Places to stay on the Pekoe Trail

Here is a link to the places to stay recommended on the official website.

Pekoe Trail: Stage 16 Ella to Demodara Read More »

Pekoe Trail: Stage 15 Makulella to Ella

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Pekoe Trail: Stage 15 - Makulella to Ella

The Pekoe Trail Stage 15 takes you on an 10.12 kilometre hike from Makulella to Ella. Launched in launched in 2023, the Pekoe Trail is an initiative that was funded by .

What are the highlights of Stage 15?

You will hike through a forested area and be enthralled by waterfalls, rivers and the iconic Ella Rock.

What Hiking Apps are recommended?

The Pekoe Trail Official Website recommends the following Apps.

AllTrails

Outdooractive

Wikiloc

Where should I stay in between Stages?

Recently a list of recommended Hotels, Guesthouses, B & B ‘s and Home-stays has been published. Click here for more details.

When an official list is issued we will update our post.

GlenMyu Estate Hotel, Beragala - Haputale

GlenMyu Estate is located around 1 hour away from Ella Town. It is an alternative option if you want to relax in comfort and outside of the main tourist area.

What do you have at GlenMyu Estate?

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views
2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house
A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool
5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host
A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature

Within reach of the following tourist sites

Diyaluma Waterfall and Upper Diyaluma Pools
Horton Plains National Park – Mini Worlds End, Worlds End and Bakers Falls
Adisham Bungalow
Lipton Seat
Dambetenna Tea Factory
Bambarakanda Waterfall
Thangamale Bird Sanctuary
Ella Town: 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak & Ravanna Waterfall

We are also listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

Pekoe Trail: Stage 15 Makulella to Ella Read More »

The Football World Cup in Qatar

Accommodation, Holiday / By Mikeez

The Football World Cup in Qatar

The FIFA World Cup is being held in Qatar in November-December 2022.

It starts on the 20th November and the World Cup Final is on the 18th December.

Hotels and other types of accommodation may well be expensive during the tournament and some fans will be looking for alternatives to staying in Qatar for the whole event.

Does Qatar have enough hotels for the World Cup?

Qatar has only 40,000 rooms and they is going at a premium.

There are 8 stadiums and demand will be high esspecially during the league stages.

There will be 3 games-a-day, hence affordability is a big question.

An alternative destination will be flying to Dubai but Dubai is at an ultra-premium now.

Sri Lanka considers itself as an option for accommodation in between games during the tournament since the flight time between Doha and Colombo is 4 hours 50 minutes.

How much is a hotel in Qatar for the World Cup?

According to this article on Forbes the prices can vary from US50 per night outside of Qatar.

“Qatar’s official website has rooms on the MSC Poesia cruise ship available from $179 per night, but for most dates, the price of a room with a double bed is closer to $500 a night”

You can find out more about the hotels and other accommodation for the Football World Cup at the official website for the tournament at qatar22

Sri Lanka is promoted as a transit zone for the World Cup in Qatar

Sir Lanka’s tourism industry is working on converting the hotels in Negombo as a lodging centre and fan zones for the overseas FIFA World Cup spectators. More information can be found from this article in the Sunday Times of Sri Lanka.

It could also be an add on to a holiday after the exit of the fan’s team from the World Cup or after the final!

Qatar airlines has agreed to increase the number of flights in between Doha and Colombo during the FIFA World Cup.

GlenMyu Estate - Outside from Colombo but temperatures that will be a relief from those in Qatar.

According to Sporting News The temperatures in Qatar during the FIFA World Cup are predicted to be between 26-28°C (78-82°F) during the early group games.

The knockout rounds also won’t start until December which is officially the start of winter in Qatar.

The average daily temperatures at that time are expected to drop to between 19-26°C (66-78°F)

The temperatures in Beragala are predicted to be between 2o-23°C (68-74°F) during November according to Climate Data.

In December Climate Data predict a similar temperature range.

GlenMyu Estate, Beragala, Haputale, Sri Lanka - Where is it?

GlenMyu Estate is located 185 km from Colombo on the Colombo – Batticaloa Highway.

We are based in the Sri Lankan Hill country and experience a climate that would be more comfortable to many Europeans who are based in Northern Europe.

Why GlenMyu Estate?

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views
2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house
A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool
5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host
A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature

Within reach of the following tourist sites

A TV Free Zone

We are also an opportunity to get some relief from the Football World Cup as we do not have Televisions at GlenMyu Estate.

When you are here you can focus on relaxing in a place surrounded by nature with temperatures that are a more comfortable than those at the beach or in the desert!

The Football World Cup in Qatar Read More »

Hotel Bedrooms with a View

Accommodation, Holiday / By Mikeez

Hotel Bedrooms with a View

When we designed the house at GlenMyu Estate we thought what would we like from a hotel bedroom. An initial thought was that we should provide hotel bedrooms with a view. We wanted to make the best of the opportunity of what the stunning landscape of the hills below the house provide us.

We have no background in hotel design and just tried to imagine what we would really like to provide for guests.

Being a little bit older we had a seasoned experience of what we like and what we don’t like. Ruwanthi travelled extensively for work and stayed at various standards of hotels around the world. Therefore she had a really good insight into what works.

Important things.

There were several important elements that kept coming up and here are some that were really important to us.

Space – given the squeeze on space in the cities around the World as they become more populous people are crammed into smaller and smaller spaces.

It was really important that our hotel bedrooms had a sense of space.

We were limited by the footprint and the space where the house was to be built. So it took us quite some time to get the configuration to the size that we liked.

My wife and I have been in hotel bedrooms that are too big and the space is wasted. We have also been in hotel bedrooms where you couldn’t swing a cat!

I remember looking at an apartment hotel in Hong Kong and I was surprised to see that the square footage of the room was clearly stated. The prices of the rooms increased the larger it got. We ended up booking a larger room however it still appeared to be cramped as so much had been squeezed into the area. It just didn’t feel comfortable!

Comfort - Beds and seating are so important to us.

One thing that Sri Lanka does well is to make mattresses.

We were recommended to buy mattresses from HANTS by another hotelier who runs a really upmarket hotel. This was one of the best decisions we made! I have not slept in such a comfortable mattress over my 50 plus years on this earth.

The feedback from our guests has been great and we are so happy with our choice (and the recommendation we were given).

A comfortable chair is a must.

One of the things I have a problem with most hotels is that they do not provide ample comfortable seating

The amount of hotel bedrooms we have been in which only has one chair for a guest (even though there are two in occupation) really annoys me. I would spend half the time lying on the bed where I really wanted to be sitting in a chair.

We ensure that there are two comfortable seats or bean bags in the rooms so one of the party of two is not left out!

I also believe that a great chair is one so comfortable that you can fall off to sleep in after a sumptuous lunch!

A place to relax - not just at night

I have a theory that hotels don’t make their bedrooms as comfortable as possible so that they have the opportunity to sell more things to their guests out of the room.

If the room is not a place that you want to stay in for hours then the hotel will be able to sell a drink and snack in their lobby or other places around the venue.

We find that although we have two comfortable lounges at GlenMyu Estate lots of guests like to stay mainly in their rooms.

As they have a great view and a comfortable place to sit there is no reason why not to

Something different than home

We thought that it was really important to be in a place which is completely different than most standard homes.

If we had designed a property that was the same as yours at home, but just had this fantastic view, there would not be much fun in that.

The bedrooms are a place where you can be comfortable in for three or four days but it’s not a home – it’s just a special place to spend some time.

Uncluttered - cleanse your mind.

One way to clear your ind is to live in an uncluttered space. I found that I could not relax whilst at home due to the things that we gather in life. There are also always chores to do and they are on your mind.

At one point we were considering adding more furniture, however, we listened to our guests thoughts. We decided that the uncluttered sense of space was more important.

There is enough space and seating to cater for the three bedrooms and capacity of seven people in the property so there was no need to add more items.

A private en suite

I would rather not go on holiday if I had to share a bathroom with other guests. One of the important things I want from a holiday is to relax. How can you relax if you are always concerned about the potential queue for the loo!

A loo with a view!

As the hotel bedroom with has a view we though why shouldn’t the bathroom also have a view.

We have mirror stickers on the windows in the bathroom which provides privacy so, as I tell our guests, you can be as naked as you want to be.

You can sit on the loo and enjoy the view!

Having a shower and looking out onto the stunning hills below the house just feels like a luxurious thing to do.

The shower is generous which was an important factor to me being “a little larger than the average bear!”.

A concrete bath (In the Mahogany and Mango bedrooms)

We also provide a bath with a view in two of the three bedrooms we have in the property. The baths have a different look and feel to a plastic or ceramic bath. They are also large enough for two!

We provide candles on guests requests which makes it a unique experience in the evening as the stars come out and provide a different type of background.

If you want to experience our hotel bedrooms with a view please visit our website for more information, rates and what else there is to experience at the five acres at GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

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Unique Hotels in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Holiday, Travel / By Mikeez

Unique Hotels in Sri Lanka

There is a drive for holidays to be about new experiences. People want to be off the regular tourist routes. They want to do something that differs from what everyone else is doing. There are some unique hotels in Sri Lanka and perhaps GlenMyu Estate can be considered one of them.

People now want unique experience and that includes discovering and enjoying new types of accommodation.

At GlenMyu Estate, we hope that we provide that new experience that is something. Something a little bit different, from which you will find on your tour of this Paradise Island.

There are some spectacular hotels in fabulous setting around Sri Lanka.
We would never purport today that we can compete with many of the luxurious stays around the island.

There are superb Colonial Bungalows such as Thotalagala, Scottish Planters Bungalow and Mountbatten Bungalow (and many more).

There are five star beach hotels around the coast providing wonderful experiences by the beach with fabulous sunsets. Notable ones include the Galle Face Hotel Colombo, Jetwing Blue Negombo and Maalu Maalu, Pasikuda amongst many others.

There are hotels looking onto UNESCO heritage sites such as Alia Hotel which has a superb view of the Lion Rock.

There are Ayurvedic hotels providing a place of calm and healing such as Saman Villas and Ayurvie Weligama

i Weligama.

When you visit Sri Lanka on holiday you have a variety of styles and experiences at different price points and standards.

There are a great many home-stays around the country which offer an experiencer to get to understand the ways of life for most of the population on the island.

What makes a unique hotel in Sri Lanka?

Well, I suppose it must be something different.

Does GlenMyu Estate fit the definition of a unique hotel in Sri Lanka.

Small and beautiful

We feel that the Covid pandemic has shifted the demand for larger hundred room plus hotels towards smaller personal spaces.

We only have three bedrooms available for guests at GlenMyu Estate which gives a sense of uniqueness and privacy. We have several pathways around the five acre estate which means that you can always have space for yourself.

Limiting the number of guests also ensures that there is no pressure on using the swimming pool. We do not have to allocate slots like other hotels.

Being small also means that we don’t offer large buffets and a large range of menu options for meals. Ruwanthi discusses each meal with our guests and makes fresh bespoke dishes for our clients.

A holiday in a “Grand Designs” home?

Ruwanthi and I loved watching the Grand Designs series whilst we were living in the UK. The presenter, Kevin McCloud, has a soothing, comforting and calming voice whilst narrating the builders struggles as they try to create their dream home.

One of our recent guests tried to describe GlenMyu Estate and said that it was like holidaying in a Grand Designs home. What a good idea for a holiday!

GlenMyu Estate is certainly Ruwanthi’s creation and our struggle and we are touched that a guest would describe it in that way.

Like the other couples, we are just delighted that we finished the project, still together and over budget like everyone else!

Decide for yourself!

They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

We think it is the right of our guests to decide whether GlenMyu Estate fits into the category of a unique hotel in Sri Lanka.

Whatever your decision, we love it here, and hope that you do too.

Where is GlenMyu Estate?

Find out more at our website GlenMyu Estate, Haputale

Unique Hotels in Sri Lanka Read More »

Is Sri Lanka a good place for a holiday?

Accommodation, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Is Sri Lanka a good place for a holiday?

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Sri Lanka a good place for a holiday

What is Sri Lank like as a holiday destination?

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Is Sri Lanka Tourist Friendly?

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10 good reasons to visit Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka a good place for a holiday

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Sri Lanka a good place for a holiday

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Relax by the Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Top 10 Hotels in Haputale

Accommodation, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Top 10 Hotels in Haputale

We are delighted at GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, Sri Lanka to be featuring on the Top 10 Hotels in Haputale on the Agoda website.

We are new - Opened in 2021

GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, was opened in 2021 during the middle of the pandemic.

Therefore we are still a really new hotel in the Haputale area as there was limited opportunities to host guests due to lockdowns and the wait for the vaccine rollout.

Experience GlenMyu Resort before the word gets out! - top 10 hotels in Haputale

As we have had few guests in 2021 due to the pandemic we are really just getting started. The guests that we have hosted so far just love it here and the reviews on Google support their feelings about our place in the Hill Country.

We are getting more and more enquires and bookings and we are looking forward to a busy December and a great 2022.

Why are we one of the Top 10 Hotels in Haputale?

Well, we don’t have any input into why we are on the list, however we think we provide a unique experience and environment for our guests. We are just really proud that we feature on the list.

What, where and why?

There are plenty of questions to answer about our wonderful piece of this Paradise Island so I will try to outline the answer to the question “What is GlenMyu Estate?”

Set in five acres - top 10 hotels in Haputale

The property is situated within five acres of the Sri Lankan Countryside. There is a feeling of being connected with nature and there is plenty or flora and different fauna that visits the land.

Being in a green space is a great feeling coming out from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Three Luxury Bedrooms with views of the Southern Hills.

The house at GlenMyu has three king size en suite bedrooms which look out to the valley below and has an ever changing view.

The bedrooms have floor to ceiling windows that allow you to wake up to the sun brushing over the hills.

Don’t worry – we have mirror stickers on the outside of the windows in the bathrooms keeping your privacy!

The two bedrooms on the middle floor have concrete baths which are a delight to soak in and watch the stars at night.

Spacious, comfortable lounges

The bedrooms are attached to the comfortable lounges on the middle and lower floors each of which gives a different aspect of the view.

We have two snugs, one on each floor, which are great places to have a drink or a snack and a chat.

We have deliberately chosen comfortable sofas and chairs and it wouldn’t be unusual to nod off for a while after a hard days vacation!

Dining in the House with a view or alternatively Al Fresco around the property

There are different options on where to dine in and around the house.

The dining table is situated on the ground floor and has some great views of the valley below. Watching and listening to the birds as you are eating breakfast in the morning is just blissful.

A Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool - top 10 hotels in Haputale.

We just love our swimming pool!
The pool is long enough to have a good swim and as it is filled with fresh spring water. It is a really refreshing experience.
We love to swim around 8 am and 4 pm as both are a completely different experience.

The swimming pool is surrounded by a sea of greenery and just feels a real luxury and a joy to be living with nature.

The birdsong provides the music while you swim and is an experience not to be missed

Walking and exploring the Estate

We have several walking pathways around the estate for you to get a little bit of exercise. You will also see the different planting we are continuously doing around the land.

We are reintroducing endemic plants to the estate and planting fruit trees to feed the variety of animals, birds and insects.

Our overall aim is to increase the biodiversity on the land making it a comfortable place for you and our daily visitors to be!

Eat Well

We have an organic garden at GlenMyu Estate and we try to use as much as we can in the meals that we provide for our guests.

Papayas appear to grow well here and there is nothing like a Papaya and Banana Smoothie to set you up in the morning.

We also provide Kola Kanda early in the morning and we collect the herbs in the nutritious porridge drink from the land early in the day making it as fresh as possible.

Ruwanthi is a great cook (you only have to look at her husbands stomach as proof!) and she will discuss what you want to eat on the day as all meals are freshly prepared.

There are plenty of places to visit if you fancy an outing from the Estate

GlenMyu Estate is well located for;

Visits to a waterfall: Diyaluma or Bambarakanda.

A hike – Horton Plains/Worlds End/Bakers Falls or Lipton Seat

A visit to the town of Ella to see Nine Arch Bridge, Ravanna Falls and so on.

Where is GlenMyu Estate located

We are located four kilometres from Beragala towards Wellawaya at the 185/14 Kilometre post.
Here is where we are located on Google maps

Why go to GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, Sri Lanka

A new experience, need to relax, be closer to nature, to breathe in the fresh air in the hills, to eat delicious food, a change in environment and so on!

There are too many reasons to come.

Hopefully we will meet you soon and you will be able to let us know why we are on the Top 10 Hotels in Haputale listing.

One of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka 2022

Accommodation, Holiday, Photography, Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

One of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka 2022 - well that’s just our opinion.

Why do we think we are one of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka in 2022.

Most visitors to Sri Lanka come enjoy the fantastic beaches that surround this beautiful paradise Island which lies off the southern tip of India.

Prior to moving to Sri Lanka in 2016 we visited the Island every year to visit my wife’s family we travelled around the Island and holidayed at some beaches.

I really enjoyed the stunning beach at Negombo when we stayed at Jetwing Beach Hotel in one of my early holidays to the Pearl of the Indian ocean. The beach is an idyllic sandy yellow with palm trees and small fishing boats resting before their next adventure in search of the bounty the ocean offers up.

The east coast has some of the most stunning beaches in the world and during our stay at Maalu Maalu in Pasikuda we walked barefoot on the pristine sand which leads to the inviting warm ocean which is comfortably shallow where you can walk out for quite some way before losing the sea floor.

There is so much to explore on this small island however the building of GlenMyu Estate took our focus from finding out what gems we are yet to discover on the island.

The pandemic has changed our thinking on what type of hotel we want to stay at when we travel around the Island and also when we next get the chance to see the rest of the world.

We now are more reluctant to stay in one of the larger hotels as we want space and some solitary time together. A smaller venue will be our preference in the future.

We have found that from the visitors to GlenMyu Estate so far in our first year that they have really enjoyed having the place to themselves and really submerged themselves in the tranquility of the nature that surrounds us. I can see our guests really switch off and relax.

There are several places of interest near to GlenMyu Estate which we expected our guests to carry out day trips to and return for a delicious meal in the dining room in the early evening.

However, we have found that although there are great intentions to explore the area, most people quickly change their outlook and just stay on the Estate.

The morning is spent listening to the birds starting their day and watching our ducks wander down to the streams and ponds to enjoy their early morning bath.

A wholesome breakfast is followed by a stroll around the pathways around the Estate taking pictures of those Instagram moments.

There are plenty of places to sit and take in the fresh air, the delightful scenery and listen to mother nature getting on with her work.

A refreshing swim in the natural sorting fed swimming pool is followed by drying off sitting on the stone seat looking onto the water.

If you are considering a place to stay in the Central Hills of Sri Lanka maybe Glenmyu Estate is for you.

One of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka 2022 Read More »

Hotels in Haputale

Accommodation, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Hotels in Haputale - A new place to stay in 2021 and 2022.

Opened in 2021, GlenMyu Resort and Hotel is a new luxurious venue enveloped in nature and set in five acres of land in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

The newly built hotel has three luxurious bedrooms all of which have splendid views of the Southern Sri Lankan Hills where you can relax and be at one with nature..

You can see the views from the lounges on the middle and lower floors.

You can also wake up to the glorious vista in the morning from your bed!

Relax, refresh and renew in the Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool set in a sea of green.

It is really a unique experience swimming in this refreshing water surrounded by the trees and listening to the bird calling each other.

Explore the Estate, watch the ducks, meet our dogs and be at one with nature.

There are plenty of places to explore on the Estate and we have put in seating areas around the land to allow you to sit be and be with nature.

We have around a dozen ducks at the Estate and they are a joy to just watch and see them go about their day.

Where is GlenMyu Estate located?

We are located around 10 km from Haputale Town and Railway station. It takes a total of around 20 minutes to drive down the hill from Haputale to Beragala and the 4 km from Beragala junction to the Estate.

Hotels in Haputale Read More »

An Egg Hunt ….but it’s not Easter!!!

Accommodation, Holiday, Organic, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Photography, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

An Egg Hunt… but it’s not Easter

It’s been a really steep learning curve being new to raising ducks and only being 18 months in

It started with a ......

A spur of the moment birthday present for my wife in late 2019 brought four ducklings to GlenMyu Estate.

We didn’t know at the time that you cannot work out the sex of the duckling until it grows a bit and therefore we were unsure what mix of a batch we had picked from the retailer.

Waiting, waiting and......

We waited with anticipation and we thought that we were lucky as it turned out we had two males and two females. We thought we would have a stream of eggs coming from these pairs in the coming months.

Little did we realise that there is a rule of thumb ratio of one male to four or five female ducks however we were soon to find this out. From the markings we appeared to have two Muscovy Ducks and two ….well we don’t really know what they are!

The dominant Drake would bully the Muscovy Drake and it was pitiful to watch.

One day the Muscovy Drake decided enough was enough and flew away never to be seen again despite and extensive search by us and our team. We often think about what happened to him. Did he manage to survive or was he lunch for a mongoose or one of the other predators that may be hiding in the forests.

Anguish and agony!

The remaining Muscovy female was a little bit lost for a few days however settled into life with her duck house mates.

The Muscovy female decided one day that she was going to sit on her eggs and our egg production was reduced however, we were intrigued to see what would happen

Amazing Mother Nature.

We are amazed by mother nature and how animals, without any training or knowledge, instinctively mate, deliver and care for their offspring.

Been here....done it!

We had witnessed this with our first dog, Clove, who had been on heat whilst we were in Colombo and we missed the boat on getting her spayed to avoid adding to the already large number of dogs in the community.

Clove was so young but delivered, cleaned and fed her seven puppies to our astonishment and admiration. We were disappointed that she decided after three or four weeks feeding them was too much of a bother and handed the responsibility over to us!

Mama Duck.

Mama Duck, as she is now known, also instinctively did what was required to see seven eggs through to the emergence of seven beautiful, cute, and hungry ducklings.

Mama Duck has turned out to be quite prolific and has delivered several batches of new life since.

The Lonely Duckling.

We have one of her offspring who are now sitting on its own batch of eggs and we are awaiting to see if she are as successful as their mother is. Mama Duck is also sitting on eggs so we are expecting lots of new arrivals in late July or early August.

Both females are sitting on eggs in the security of the greenhouse and duck house. This is a first as Mama Duck usually sets up her next near our Temple Rock which is not secure from predators and we have had many nights of lost sleep concerned about her safety. We are sleeping better now knowing that they are better protected and can be locked in at night.

You have to laugh.

We joke that every morning we have to go on an egg hunt to find where the ducks have laid their eggs so we can collect them. They can lay their eggs in the most awkward of places and are really good at hiding them!

Hide and Seek!

One of the other females is now laying and hiding her eggs in anticipation of sitting on them delivering more life to GlenMyu. She has tried a few spots before settling on one place.

Around six thirty this morning I decided I would go open an egg hunt and watch where she went after her morning dip in the stream.

I kept my distance and had an idea of roughly where she was sitting.

At around midday I had a look at the spot and eventually uncovered five eggs well hidden by leaves, grass and other flora. I took a short video showing what I found.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

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