Birdwatching

Summer holiday in Sri Lanka

What is Mindfulness on Holiday?

What is Mindfulness on Holiday?

Mindfulness on Holiday

Holidays are more than sightseeing and relaxation.

They are opportunities to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.

Mindfulness helps travellers slow down, appreciate each moment, and create lasting memories.

What is Mindfulness on Holiday?

Mindfulness is the practice of being present.

It means noticing your surroundings, thoughts, and feelings without judgement.

On holiday, mindfulness allows you to fully experience each destination.

Benefits of Mindfulness for Travellers

Mindfulness reduces stress and improves wellbeing.

Families benefit from calmer interactions and deeper connections.

Travellers enjoy greater appreciation of culture, food, and nature.

Mindfulness also enhances sleep, energy, and overall enjoyment.

How GlenMyu Boutique Villa Encourages Mindfulness

GlenMyu Boutique Villa is surrounded by nature.

Guests enjoy tranquil views, fresh air, and peaceful walks.

Plant‑based menus support wellness and balance.

The villa offers quiet spaces for reflection and meditation.

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

Simple Mindfulness Practices During Your Holiday

– Begin mornings with deep breathing.
– Walk slowly and notice sounds, colours, and scents.
– Eat meals mindfully, savouring each flavour.
– Pause during excursions to reflect on the moment.
– Spend time in nature without distractions.

FAQ: Mindfulness on Holiday

Q: Why practise mindfulness on holiday?
Mindfulness helps travellers relax, connect, and enjoy each moment fully.

Q: How does GlenMyu Boutique Villa support mindfulness?
The villa offers peaceful surroundings, plant‑based menus, and nature walks.

Q: Can children practise mindfulness?
Yes, simple activities like mindful walking or noticing sounds are suitable.

Q: Does mindfulness improve holiday enjoyment?
Yes, it reduces stress and increases appreciation of experiences.

Q: How can families practise mindfulness together?
Families can share quiet walks, mindful meals, and reflection time.

Conclusion - Mindfulness on Holiday

Mindfulness transforms holidays into meaningful journeys.

Families and travellers enjoy deeper connections, calmer experiences, and lasting memories.

GlenMyu Estate provides the perfect setting for mindfulness in Sri Lanka.

Contact us directly by WhatsApp on 00 94 752 999 272 to secure the best rates.

Why stay at GlenMyu?

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorious food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting experience. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

We reward guests for finding us directly by offering direct booking 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.

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.

What is Mindfulness on Holiday? Read More »

Summer Holiday in Sri Lanka Guide

Summer Holiday in Sri Lanka Guide

Quick Answer

A summer holiday in Sri Lanka offers a mix of beaches, hill country escapes, wildlife safaris, and cultural heritage sites.

The best regions to visit between May and August are the central highlands (Nuwara Eliya, Haputale, Ella) and the east coast (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, Pasikudah) due to favorable weather.

Why Choose Sri Lanka for Summer?

  • Diverse landscapes: Beaches, tea plantations, waterfalls, and national parks.

  • Cultural richness: Ancient cities, temples, and colonial heritage.

  • Wildlife encounters: Elephants, leopards, and marine life.

  • Hospitality: Boutique stays like GlenMyu Estate offer personalized experiences.

Activities for Summer Holidays

  • Hiking: Horton Plains, Lipton’s Seat, Pekoe Trail.

  • Beach escapes: Arugam Bay surfing, Pasikudah swimming.

  • Wildlife safaris: Yala, Minneriya, and Udawalawe National Parks.

  • Cultural tours: Ancient ruins, temples, and colonial architecture.

Best Regions to Visit in Summer

  • Central Highlands: Cooler climate, hiking trails, waterfalls, tea estates.

  • East Coast Beaches: Calm seas, surfing in Arugam Bay, snorkeling in Trincomalee.

  • Cultural Triangle: Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura.

Guest Experience

  • GlenMyu Estate guests enjoy combining hill country hikes with day trips to Ella.

  • Estate provides plant-based menus, packed breakfasts, and curated excursions.

  • Guests highlight the blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Sri Lankan culture.

FAQs

Q: Is summer a good time to visit Sri Lanka?
A: Yes, especially the central highlands and east coast.

Q: Which beaches are best in summer?
A: Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, and Pasikudah.

Q: What activities suit summer holidays?
A: Hiking, safaris, surfing, snorkeling, and cultural tours.

Q: Where should I stay?
A: GlenMyu Estate offers boutique accommodation in the central highlands.

Key Takeaway

A summer holiday in Sri Lanka combines cool highland escapes, sunny east coast beaches, and rich cultural experiences.

GlenMyu Estate is the ideal base for guests seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Why stay at GlenMyu?

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorious food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting experience. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

We reward guests for finding us directly by offering direct booking 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.

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.

Summer Holiday in Sri Lanka Guide Read More »

The Top five things to do near Haputale

What Are The Top Five Things to do near Haputale?

The Top Five Things to do near Haputale

The top five things to do near Haputale include


These activities showcase Haputale’s natural beauty, history, and culture.

1. Visiting Lipton’s Seat,
2. Exploring Diyaluma Falls,
3. Hiking to Prabhawa Mountainday View Point,
4. Discovering Thangamale Sanctuary,
5. Enjoying tea plantation tours.

1. Lipton’s Seat

Location: Dambatenne Tea Estate, about 7 km from Haputale.

Highlight: Famous viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his tea empire.
Experience: Panoramic views across rolling tea plantations. On clear days, both coasts of Sri Lanka are visible.

2. Diyaluma Falls

Height: 220 metres, making it Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall.
Activities: Trekking to natural pools at the top, swimming, and photography.
Tip: Best visited during dry season for safe swimming.

3. Prabhawa Mountainday View Point

Altitude: 1,750 metres above sea level.
View: Offers a 270‑degree panoramic view of valleys and hills.
Access: A short walk from Haputale town along the Haputale‑Dambethenna road.

4. Thangamale Sanctuary

 Type: Wildlife sanctuary near Haputale.
Biodiversity: Rich in birdlife and native flora.
Experience: Ideal for nature walks and birdwatching in peaceful surroundings.

5. Tea Plantation Tours

Highlight: Haputale is surrounded by lush tea estates.
Experience: Guided tours explain tea production, ending with tastings.
Notable Estate: Dambatenne Tea Factory, linked to Sir Thomas Lipton.

Why Stay at GlenMyu Boutique Villa?

After exploring Haputale, retreat to GlenMyu Boutique Villa for comfort and tranquillity.

Guests enjoy personalised service, wellness‑focused experiences, and curated plant‑based menus.

Booking Tip: Contact us directly by WhatsApp on 00 94 752 999 272 to secure the best rates.

More reasons to stay at GlenMyu Estate

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorious food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting experience. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

We reward guests for finding us directly by offering direct booking 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.

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.

What Are The Top Five Things to do near Haputale? Read More »

Creativity flourishes on holiday in the right environment

Creativity on Holiday at GlenMyu Estate

A Place Where Creativity Flourishes on Holiday

Creativity on holiday

Holidays are not only for relaxation; they are perfect opportunities to explore creative pursuits that enrich the mind and soul.

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa in Sri Lanka, guests discover a tranquil environment where imagination thrives.

Reading, drawing, and writing poetry become natural extensions of the holiday experience, offering fulfilment and joy.

Reading Books in a Peaceful Setting - Creativity on holiday

Reading is a timeless pursuit that allows holidaymakers to escape into new worlds and ideas.

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa, the peaceful surroundings create the ideal atmosphere for enjoying books without distraction.

Guests can relax by the swimming pool or in shaded corners of the garden, immersing themselves in stories that inspire reflection and growth.

Reading on holiday nurtures curiosity and provides a gentle way to declutter the mind.

Creativity on holiday - Drawing and Painting Inspired by Nature

The lush landscapes around GlenMyu Boutique Villa provide endless inspiration for drawing and painting.

Guests can capture vibrant flowers, graceful birds, and rolling hills through sketches and watercolours.

Creative expression flourishes when surrounded by natural beauty, and the villa’s serene environment encourages experimentation with artistic techniques.

Drawing and painting become joyful ways to connect with nature and preserve holiday memories.

There are a total of five acres to explore and get inspiration from.

The cloud formations that you can see from the house at GlenMyu constantly change throughout the year.

Nature delivers opportunities to spark your imagination.

Writing Poetry with Fresh Inspiration - Creativity on holiday

Poetry is a powerful form of self-expression, and holidays offer the time and space to explore it.

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa, guests find inspiration in sunsets, conversations, and the rhythm of daily life.

We keep a small library of books at GlenMyu for our guests to read whilst they stay on the estate.

There are some poetry books which may well provide you with some ideas or insiration.

Writing poetry allows emotions to flow freely, creating verses that capture the essence of the holiday experience.

Whether reflective or playful, poetry enriches the journey and deepens appreciation for the present moment.

Family Bonding Through Creative Activities

Creative pursuits are not solitary; they can be shared with family and friends.

Reading aloud, drawing together, or composing poetry as a group fosters connection and laughter.

These activities encourage meaningful interaction, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories.

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa, families discover that creativity brings joy and unity, enhancing the holiday experience for all generations.

We love hearing the laughter at the pool or around the dinner table. Stories and memories are created which can be recorded on paper and retold over the years.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa: A Holiday Haven for Creativity

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers more than accommodation; it is a haven for creativity and inspiration.

Guests enjoy spaces designed for relaxation and imagination, from the swimming pool to the gardens.

The villa’s welcoming atmosphere encourages holidaymakers to explore new hobbies, rediscover old passions, and embrace creative pursuits.

This nurturing environment ensures that every guest leaves with cherished memories and renewed inspiration.

Creativity on Holiday - Contact GlenMyu Boutique Villa Directly

Creative pursuits such as reading, drawing, and poetry transform holidays into meaningful journeys of self-discovery.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa in Sri Lanka provides the perfect setting for imagination to flourish.

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

Your creative holiday awaits at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

More About GlenMyu?

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
It’s an environment that inspires creativity on holiday.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorius food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting experience. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

We reward guests for finding us directly by offering direct booking 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.

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.

Creativity on Holiday at GlenMyu Estate Read More »

I wish I had stayed longer at GlenMyu

Why Holidays Should Declutter Your Mind

Why Holidays Should Declutter Your Mind

A holiday is more than travel; it is a chance to declutter your mind and reconnect with what matters most.

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa in Sri Lanka, guests discover a sanctuary where digital distractions fade, and meaningful experiences take centre stage.

This retreat encourages holidaymakers to embrace presence, connection, and joy, creating memories that last far beyond the journey itself.

Digital Detox: Being Present with Loved Ones

Modern life often overwhelms us with constant notifications, emails, and endless scrolling.

A digital detox at GlenMyu Boutique Villa allows you to step away from screens and rediscover the beauty of being present.

Use your phone only for photos and videos, capturing moments of laughter, smiles, and shared adventures.

This mindful approach ensures you remain engaged with family and friends, rather than distracted by digital noise.

Nature’s Healing Power at GlenMyu Boutique Villa

Surrounded by lush landscapes, GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers opportunities to appreciate nature’s calming influence.

Discover new birds and plants while wandering through the grounds, guided by curiosity and wonder.

The villa’s setting encourages guests to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the natural world.

This immersion in greenery helps restore balance, reduce stress, and inspire gratitude for life’s simple pleasures.

Family Memories Around the Swimming Pool

The swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is more than a place to cool down; it is a hub for family memories.

Splashing together, sharing laughter, and enjoying the sunshine create bonds that
strengthen relationships.

Children delight in playful moments, while adults relax and unwind, appreciating the joy of togetherness.

These shared experiences become treasured stories retold long after the holiday ends.

Creative Pursuits: Reading, Drawing, and Poetry

A holiday at GlenMyu Boutique Villa provides time for creative pursuits often neglected in daily life.

Guests can immerse themselves in reading books, drawing landscapes, painting vibrant scenes, or writing poetry inspired by the surroundings.

These activities nurture imagination and self-expression, offering a fulfilling way to spend quiet hours.

Creativity flourishes when the mind is free from clutter and distractions.

Games and Shared Joy with Friends and Family

Board and card games bring people together, sparking laughter and friendly competition.

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa, evenings spent playing games with friends and family foster connection and joy.

These simple activities remind us that happiness often lies in shared experiences rather than material possessions.

Games encourage conversation, teamwork, and light-hearted fun, strengthening bonds across generations.

Hiking the Pekoe Trail with Expert Guides

Adventure awaits beyond the villa with guided hikes along the Pekoe Trail.

Guests learn about local flora and fauna while exploring scenic paths.

The trail offers opportunities to appreciate biodiversity and deepen understanding of Sri Lanka’s landscapes.

Hiking together creates shared achievements and memorable stories, reinforcing the value of discovery and connection with nature.

Dining Together: Delicious Meals and Conversations

Meals at GlenMyu Boutique Villa are occasions for togetherness, where delicious dishes are enjoyed alongside meaningful conversations.

Sharing food strengthens relationships, creating moments of joy and appreciation.

Guests savour flavours while discussing the day’s adventures, reflecting on discoveries, and planning tomorrow’s experiences.

Dining together becomes a ritual of connection, reinforcing the importance of family and friendship.

Playful Moments with Dogs and Outdoor Activities

The villa’s friendly dogs bring delight to guests, offering playful companionship and unconditional joy.

Outdoor activities such as badminton on the lawn provide opportunities for light exercise and laughter.

These moments remind holidaymakers of the value of simple pleasures, encouraging relaxation and fun.

Playful interactions with animals and games outdoors enrich the holiday experience.

Restful Sleep in Comfortable Beds

At GlenMyu Boutique Villa, restful sleep is assured thanks to comfortable beds and pleasant night temperatures.

Guests wake refreshed, ready to embrace each new day with energy and enthusiasm.

Quality sleep is essential for mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall wellbeing.

A holiday that prioritises rest ensures guests return home rejuvenated and inspired.

Contact GlenMyu Boutique Villa Directly

Decluttering your mind on holiday is a gift to yourself and those you love.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa in Sri Lanka provides the perfect setting for digital detox, nature appreciation, creative pursuits, and family connection.

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

Your journey to presence, joy, and unforgettable memories begins here.

Why stay at GlenMyu?

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorius food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting experience. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

We reward guests for finding us directly by offering direct booking 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.

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.

Why Holidays Should Declutter Your Mind Read More »

Ethical Travel In Sri Lanka

Ethical travel in Sri Lanka

Ethical travel in Sri Lanka

GlenMyu Estate and Ethical Travel

Travellers increasingly seek ethical places to stay.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa near Haputale offers a responsible and caring experience.

Guests enjoy luxury while supporting sustainable values.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa’s commitment to staff

The villa values its staff highly.

Ru, Michael, and the team ensure fair treatment and respect.

Staff are trained, supported, and empowered to deliver excellent service.

Staying at GlenMyu supports ethical travel

Ethical Travel - Respect and care for animals

Animals are part of life at GlenMyu.

Dogs, cats, and rescued animals are cared for lovingly.

Guests often enjoy meeting them during their stay.

This adds warmth and authenticity to the villa experience.

Some of our profits are spent on caring and feeding the animals at the estate.

We also fund spaying and neutering of dogs for local Sri Lankan dog owner who find paying for the operation a financial challenge.

Ethical travel -Environmental responsibility at GlenMyu Boutique Villa

The villa is designed with sustainability in mind.

A natural spring-fed swimming pool reduces chemical use.

Food is prepared with estate-grown produce, minimising waste.

Produce that we cannot grow is sourced from local markets reducing food miles.

Efforts are made to protect the surrounding environment.

Ethical Travel

We believe in supporting the local community. 

Being self sufficient would not be very neighbourly. Supporting local businesses helps fund the local community and their families.

Why ethical travel matters

Ethical travel supports communities and ecosystems.

Guests at GlenMyu Boutique Villa contribute to responsible tourism in Sri Lanka.

It ensures holidays benefit both people and nature.

You know that staying at GlenMyu will support, local people, animals and the environment.

We continuously plant a variety of endemic plants on the five acre estate to encourage biodiversity and a to restore the land.

Guest experiences highlight GlenMyu Boutique Villa ’s values

Reviews on Google and Booking.com praise GlenMyu Boutique Villa ’s ethos.

Guests mention the care shown to staff and animals.

They highlight the villa’s commitment to sustainability.

Ethical Travel - Activities that connect guests with nature

Guests can explore tea plantations and waterfalls nearby.

Walks through the estate reveal local flora and fauna.

These experiences deepen appreciation for Sri Lanka’s environment.

Our guest particularly enjoy UNESCO World Heritage Site Horton Plains National Park.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall is one of our favourite places which has not been spoilt (yet!) by over-tourism. 

Two stages of the new 300 kilometre, Pekoe Trail, are nearby in Haputale. This is a good social project which supports local communities along the walking trail. 

Why GlenMyu is a model for ethical stays

GlenMyu Boutique Villa combines luxury with responsibility.

It shows how boutique accommodation can be ethical and sustainable.

Guests leave with memories and respect for its values.

We continue to add to sustainability of the estate and plan to add solar electricity in 2026 with any surplus being fed back to the grid. 

Solar hot water tanks are already used for the hot water requirements on the estate.

Booking advice for holidaymakers

Availability at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is limited as reputation grows.

As there are only three guest bedrooms with a capacity for seven people, we can be fully booked during the peak tourist season.

Please book in advance to secure your stay and avoid any disappointment.

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

More reasons to stay at GlenMyu?

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorius food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting experience. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Ethical travel - Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

We reward guests for finding us directly by offering direct booking 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.

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.

Ethical travel in Sri Lanka Read More »

Cookery demonstrations

One Region Holiday – A Different Way to Travel

A Different Way to Travel

Many travellers rush across Sri Lanka, trying to see everything.

This often leads to stress and missed experiences.

Choosing to spend your holiday in one part of the island offers a calmer, richer journey.

Less Travel, More Relaxation

Sri Lanka’s road network is improving, but travel between regions can still take time.

By focusing on one area, you reduce long journeys.

This means more time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Deeper Cultural Connections

Staying in one region allows you to connect with local communities.

You can learn traditions, taste regional food, and join festivals.

This slower pace creates meaningful memories that rushing across the island cannot provide.

Explore Nature at Your Own Pace

Sri Lanka offers diverse landscapes.

Each region has unique wildlife, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

By staying in one area, you can explore nature without feeling hurried.

You enjoy the beauty more deeply.

 Better for Families and Couples

Families benefit from less travel stress.

Children enjoy stable surroundings and familiar routines.

Couples appreciate more time together without constant packing and moving.

A single base creates intimacy and comfort.

Sustainable Travel Choice

Focusing on one region reduces your carbon footprint.

Fewer journeys mean less fuel use and lower emissions.

This choice supports sustainable tourism, helping protect Sri Lanka’s environment for future generations.

A Perfect Base in Uva Province:GlenMyu Boutique Villa

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers the ideal setting for a focused holiday.

Located in Uva Province, it provides peace and charm.

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

The villa is surrounded by waterfalls, tea plantations, and hiking trails.

You can spend days exploring nearby attractions without long drives.

Each outing feels rewarding and manageable. 

Accommodation Demand Rising

Tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka exceeded 2.1 million by December 2025.

Demand for quality accommodation is increasing rapidly.

Booking early ensures you secure your preferred stay.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa is highly recommended for comfort and charm.

Conclusion: Choose Depth Over Distance

Spending your holiday in one part of Sri Lanka offers relaxation, cultural depth, and sustainability.

GlenMyu Boutique Villa provides the perfect base for this style of travel.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

Secure your stay today and enjoy a memorable Sri Lankan holiday.

Why stay at GlenMyu?

GlenMyu Boutique Villa offers comfort and tranquillity.
 
Guests enjoy beautiful surroundings and attentive service.  
 
We are open and ready to welcome holidaymakers. Our team looks forward to caring for guests this season.  
 
To secure the best rates, contact us directly by WhatsApp: 00 94 752 999 272. 
The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Two Lounges where you can relax, chat and enjoy the views

GlenMyu Boutique Villa has two comfortable lounges that have views of the southern hills.

The middle floor have ample seating where you can sit together or separately, if you want some space.

Dining is on the lower floor of the house. 

We also have a snug which is an ideal place to have a pre-dinner drink and chat about your day in the Sri Lankan hills.

Three comfortable Bedrooms

We only have three guest bedrooms at GlenMyu Boutique Villa.

The Mahogany and Mango bedrooms are situated on the middle floor and have a communal lounge.

All the beds in the bedrooms look out over the views to the south of the island through floor to ceiling windows.

Our Cinnamon bedroom is on the ground floor of the property and has direct access to the gardens.

The Swimming Pool

Our Natural Spring-Fed Swimming pool at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is located a short walk from the house.

Guests like that fact that it is private and not overlooked by the house.

Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderful place to relax whilst listening to the soundtrack of bird songs.

Food, glorius food!

Our food offering at GlenMyu Boutique Villa is mainly plant based or vegetarian as we are able to source good quality fresh ingredients.

However, we do offer some fish and chicken dishes for our guests.

Breakfast is quite substantial and guests often skip lunch.

We make our dishes freshly to order from the best ingredients we can find.

What we serve to you is important to us and Ru and the team have a good reputation for cuisine with a hint of Sri Lankan flavours.

Amma shows you how to cook Sri Lankan

We offer a complimentary Sri Lankan cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Boutique Villa when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

The platter consists of six or seven vegetarian dishes and is served with rice or flat bread.

It’s a fun and interesting expeirence. We love it when our guests try making some of the dishes when they get home.

Ruwanthi's garden tour

There are five acres at GlenMyu Boutique Villa and we grow various fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Ruwanthi is happy to provide a garden tour to interested guests.

Often you will pick some of the ingredients that will be used in the meals that you will eat that evening.

Book directly and save

We recommend contacting us directly via WhatsApp for the best rates.

Message us at 00 94 752 999 272.

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.

One Region Holiday – A Different Way to Travel Read More »

Hotels with swimming pools near Haputale

Recharging on Your Sri Lankan Holiday

Why GlenMyu Estate Is Your Ideal Rest Stop

🧘 Recharging on Your Sri Lankan Holiday: Why GlenMyu Estate Is Your Ideal Rest Stop

The Restful Side of Sri Lanka

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

Sri Lanka is a compact island bursting with beauty and adventure.
Many first-time travelers overestimate what they can fit into one visit.
Packed itineraries often mean little time for rest or reflection.

Despite new highways, travel across the country takes longer than expected.
Mountain roads, varied terrain, and traffic slow down your journey.
So many places to see-yet so little time to truly relax.

Planning rest on holiday

🧠 Why Rest Should Be Part of Your Holiday Plan

Rest isn’t just a luxury-it’s a necessity for well-being.
A relaxing holiday helps your body recover and your mind reboot.
At home, your life may feel chaotic, both personally and professionally.

Taking time to recharge enhances sleep, mood, and mental clarity.
You’ll absorb travel experiences more deeply and create richer memories.
Resting boosts immunity, reduces stress, and renews your energy levels.

Rest well at GlenMyu Estate

🏡 Why GlenMyu Estate Makes a Difference

GlenMyu Estate is a boutique escape in lush Uva Province.
Set amidst tranquil gardens and mountain views, it’s designed for rest.
Spacious rooms offer cozy beds, soft linens, and beautiful views.

The villa’s layout flows from indoor comfort to outdoor peace. 
Soothing temperatures and fresh air make relaxation come naturally.
Guests are greeted by friendly rescue dogs-adding warmth and joy.

Nourish your body

Nourishing meals by Ru and the team feature fresh, local ingredients.
The estate blends thoughtful hospitality with deep comfort and nature.
It’s not just a place to sleep-it’s a sanctuary for wellness.

Expend energy and then relax

🚶 The Blend of Activity and Relaxation

Relaxing doesn’t mean doing nothing-it means doing things mindfully.
GlenMyu offers access to nature walks like the Pekoe Trail.
Or hike Horton Plains to see cloud forests and wild sambar deer.

After your adventure, dip into GlenMyu’s cool natural swimming pool.
Then curl up on a sofa with a book or herbal tea.
Evenings bring cozy vibes and vibrant, healthy meals cooked with care.

This balance between movement and stillness keeps your body refreshed.
You leave energised-not exhausted-with memories that truly stick.

Plan your downtime

📆 Plan Wisely, Rest Deeply

Most travellers wait until the final beach day to relax.
But true restoration comes from weaving rest into the whole trip.
Three nights at GlenMyu Estate gives you time to explore and recharge.

Slow travel brings deeper connection and long-lasting impact.
GlenMyu Estate is your chance to rest, reset, and reconnect.
Reach out via WhatsApp to get exclusive 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.

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.

Recharging on Your Sri Lankan Holiday Read More »

Alone at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall

Instagram vs. Reality

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?

The weather has been better than expected in early October 2025 which has helped strong tourist arrivals.

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.

Sleeping well on holiday

“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 purple rumpled Sunbird in Sri Lanka

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.

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.

Instagram vs. Reality Read More »

A Purple Rumped Sunbird

Wake Up to Birdsong at GlenMyu Estate

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.

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.

Wake Up to Birdsong at GlenMyu Estate Read More »

The joy of swimming alone

The Joy of Swimming Solo

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.

Watching the sky. An outdoor lifestyle

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 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.

The Joy of Swimming Solo Read More »

A garden tour for guests at GlenMyu Estate

Reconnect with Nature

Reconnect with Nature: Escape to GlenMyu Estate

Reconnect with Nature: Why GlenMyu Estate Is the Perfect Escape to the Wild

🌿 Why Nature Connection Matters More Than Ever

In a world dominated by screens, deadlines, and digital noise, reconnecting with nature isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Studies show that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, boost creativity, and even enhance physical health.

Nature connectedness is linked to lower levels of anxiety and depression, and higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Whether it’s the rustle of leaves, the call of a bird, or the sight of animals roaming freely, nature offers a grounding experience that reminds us of our place in the world.

GlenMyu Estate: Where Nature Lives With You

Reconnect with Nature

🏡 GlenMyu Estate: Where Nature Lives With You

Tucked away in the lush Sri Lankan Hill Country near Haputale, GlenMyu Estate boutique villa is more than a place to stay—it’s a sanctuary where nature and hospitality intertwine.

Set within five acres of verdant landscape, the estate invites guests to slow down and immerse themselves in the rhythms of the wild.

Here, nature isn’t just outside your window—it’s part of your daily experience.

Reconnect with Nature in Sri Lanka

🐾 Meet the Residents: A Peaceful Menagerie

GlenMyu Estate is home to a delightful cast of animal residents that add charm and character to your stay:

– 🐶 Dogs – Friendly rescue pups that love to accompany guests on garden walks.

– 🐄 Cows – Grazing peacefully in the estate’s meadows.

– 🦆 Ducks – Often seen waddling through the gardens or swimming in the stream.

– 🐔 Chickens – Free-range and often followed by fluffy chicks, adding a pastoral touch.

These animals aren’t just adorable—they’re part of the estate’s commitment to living harmoniously with nature.

Into the Wild - reconnecting with nature

🐒 Wild Visitors: Nature’s Daily Parade

Each day brings new surprises at GlenMyu Estate, with a variety of wild visitors dropping by:

– 🐵 Two types of monkeys – Often seen swinging through the trees or curiously observing from a distance.
– 🐦 Birds – From resident species to migratory guests, the estate is a haven for birdwatchers.

A Birdwatching Paradise

📸 Birdwatching Paradise: Spot Sri Lanka’s Endemic Treasures

Sri Lanka is home to 33 endemic bird species, many of which are found in the Hill Country.

GlenMyu Estate’s location and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot to observe these rare and beautiful birds.

Some of the endemic species you might spot include:

🐦 Endemic Bird

Sri Lanka Blue Magpie

Yellow-eared Bulbul

Sri Lanka Junglefowl

Layard’s Parakeet

Spot-winged Thrush

 🌍 Habitat

 Wet zone forests

Montane forests

 Hill Country

Forested hills

 Forest edges

🔍 Likelihood of Spotting

High

 Moderate

 Very High

Moderate

 High

With binoculars in hand and a bit of patience, you may be lucky enough to spot several of these during your stay.

Nature Therapy

🌸 Nature Therapy at GlenMyu Estate

Guests often describe their time at GlenMyu Estate as deeply restorative. Here’s why:

– 🌳 Immersive greenery – Five acres of gardens, forest trails, and hidden nooks.
– 💦 Natural spring-fed pool – Swim surrounded by birdsong and misty hills.
– 🧘‍♀️ Mindful moments – Whether it’s sipping tea on the veranda or watching ducks forage, every moment invites calm.

Are you ready?

🌄 Ready to Reconnect?

If you’re yearning for a deeper connection with nature, GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect escape. It’s not just a holiday—it’s a return to what truly matters.

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 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.

Reconnect with Nature Read More »

Balcony views

Unplug and Unwind

Unplug and Unwind:A stay at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

You need to Unplug and Unwind

🌿 Escape the Grind and Reconnect with Yourself

In today’s always-on world, the pressure of work deadlines, digital overload, and home responsibilities can leave you feeling drained.

If you’re craving a true escape—one that goes beyond a weekend break—GlenMyu Estate, a boutique villa.

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s serene Hill Country, offers the perfect sanctuary to reset your mind and body

More Than Just a Place to Stay

🏡 Why GlenMyu Estate Is More Than Just a Place to Stay

Set within five acres of lush greenery near Haputale, GlenMyu Estate is designed to help guests slow down and breathe.

With only three luxurious rooms, the villa offers an intimate, personalized experience that feels more like staying with friends than checking into a hotel. 

The natural spring-fed swimming pool, panoramic views, and peaceful gardens create an atmosphere of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The Power of a Longer Stay

🧘 The Power of a Longer Stay

A short break might offer temporary relief, but a longer stay—four days or more—allows you to truly disconnect and recalibrate.

Here’s why:

– 🌄 Nature immersion: Wake up to misty hills, birdsong, and fresh mountain air.
Studies show that time in nature reduces cortisol levels and improves mental clarity.

– 🍽️ Nourishing meals: Enjoy plant-based, garden-to-table cuisine prepared by the hosts using ingredients grown on-site.
Eating well is a cornerstone of stress recovery.

– 🛏️ Restorative sleep: With cool temperatures (20°C–25°C during June to August), quiet surroundings, and cozy king-size beds, you’ll sleep deeper and wake refreshed.

– 🧘‍♀️ Mindful moments: Whether it’s meditating on the veranda, swimming at sunrise, or journaling in a hidden garden nook, GlenMyu encourages slow living and self-reflection.

Our Reviews Say It All

🌸 Guest Reviews Say It All

Visitors often describe GlenMyu Estate as “a piece of paradise” and “the best place we’ve ever stayed.”

Many regret not booking longer, citing the peaceful environment, exquisite food, and warm hospitality as reasons they felt truly rejuvenated.

Garden tours, hikes and much more

🗺️ Activities That Heal, Not Hype

Unlike high-paced tourist hubs, GlenMyu offers experiences that soothe:

– 🌿 Garden tours and cooking demonstrations


– 🚶‍♂️ Gentle hikes on the Pekoe Trail


– 💦 Visits to nearby waterfalls like Upper Diyaluma

Quiet places

– 📚 Quiet reading spots and nature walks

📅 Make Time for Yourself

Stress doesn’t vanish overnight.

A longer stay at GlenMyu Estate gives you the space to decompress, reflect, and return home with a renewed sense of balance.
Whether you’re recovering from burnout or simply seeking peace, this boutique villa offers a rare chance to truly switch off.

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 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.

Unplug and Unwind Read More »

A unique experience. Creativity on holiday

Sri Lanka in May

Sri Lanka in May

What is the month of May like in Sri Lanka?

Here are my notes from May 2025.

The weather in Sri Lanka is getting less predictable which we fear is all part of global warming.
However, sometimes these changes are positive as we experience better weather elongating the tourist season.

As Sri Lanka looks to market itself as a year round destination providing you with an idea of what happens during each month will help you make a decision on whether to travel out of season.

An unexpected May in Sri Lanka

At GlenMyu Estate, we were a little surprised by the weather in early May 2025. 

Normally we would expect regular rains in the Sri Lankan Hill country at this time of the year.

As it is the low tourist period it gives us a chance to do some maintenance around the estate.

The expected rains are when we start planting as the plants have time to establish without the intensity of the sun.

This year, we did have guests in early May and they had fabulous weather.

I had sent links to weather sites when they booked so that they knew what to expect. This year the weather surprised us and was good with on a few short showers during the month.

Another building

Going on holiday and finding out that there is building work going on next to the hotel you are staying is a bit of a nightmare. You don’t go for a restful holiday and expect to be disturbed by building work.

This is why, at GlenMyu Estate,  we tend to carry out any noisy building work out of season.  I won’t even cut the grass when we have guests on site as I want them to have a relaxing time and not be disturbed by the whirr of the brush cutter.

As over the last two years, we have had very few guests in May and June, we tend to carry out building work during these quieter months.

We plan to have our new building ready for the next peak tourist season in July 2025.

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. Often, this is only for thirty minutes or so.
This provides the opportunity to clear any humidity from the air and to provide the land which much needed watering.

May 2025 in Sri Lanka was therefore great for our guests but not for the garden. Fortunately we have plenty of springs at GlenMyu Estate and we can always water the garden when it is needed. 

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

Holidaying in the off season is always a risk. However, there are great deals for accommodation in Sri Lanka during May and June.

If you find you are in one part of the island and it is too rainy, you can always find some reasonably priced accommodation elsewhere at short notice.

You can follow the good weather and get a different experience than most travellers to the island that keep to the peak tourist seasons where the weather is historically better.

Experience Sri Lanka without the crowds

Getting a train ticket from Kandy to Ella, climbing the Lion Rock and seeing animals on a safari is more enjoyable without the crowds. 

There will be more risk of rain but if you don’t want to be in competition with other tourists, the holidaying in Sri Lanka in May, may well be worth the risk.

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 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.

Sri Lanka in May Read More »

mindfulness on holiday

Anything is better outside

Anything is better outside

Anything is better outside!

When Listening to a Tik Tok/Instagram video by A Mug of Life one of the interviewees (Val) said about drinking her cup of tea the “Anything is better outside”

This resonated with me as one of the things I most like about GlenMyu Estate is that we can spend so much of the year outside.

When we lived in London, the weather conditions drove us inside for much of the year.
Living in Sri Lanka in the Hill Country, our lives have changed for the better.

We can live a lot of the year enjoying the five acre estate. It was unexpected as we did think that it rained more here than it actually does.

At the pool

Surrounded by nature, the swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate is a magical place. 

The refreshing water which is sourced from a spring on the property, is cool and makes you feel alive.

It is wonderful swimming surrounded by the greenery whilst listening to the birds.

You may even be joined by one of our rescue dogs while you relax and soak up the sun.

Enjoying nature on the five acre estate

When the five acre estate was purchased it has remained fallow for several years.

It took some more time before we moved to Sri Lankan to start work.

The aim was to create an oasis for people and animals. We have planted lots of different plants and trees to attract and feed the wildlife that visits the estate.

Working with the landscape  and retaining its’ features has allowed natures beauty to shine through. 

Cooking outside

The vegetables, fruits and spices that we grow at GlenMyu Estate are used as ingredients for what we cook for our guests.

Our menu consists of both Sri Lankan and Western fusion dishes. You can see what we offer by reading our menu.

Many of our guests enjoy the Sri Lankan cookery demonstration hosted by Ru and her mother. 

It’s complimentary when our guests order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

Dining Alfresco

If there is one thing that is better outside, it is eating a delicious meal surrounded by nature.

Dining alfresco when the snow is on the ground in Northern Europe is one of the great memories guests have at GlenMyu Estate.

Is there anything better than eating outside?

Seeing what we grow

Fortunately, the climate in the Sri Lankan hill country means that we can grow a variety of crops at GlenMyu Estate.

Much of the produce is used in the dishes that we serve to our guests. As we do not use any chemicals or pesticides at the estate, you know that you are eating good organic food.

Ru regularly offers a garden tour for guests that are interested. It’s and enjoyable experience out in the fresh air discovering what fruits, vegetables and spices we grow on the estate.

When you need to spend time inside

Living in the Sri Lankan Hill country is amazing as the weather can change often and quickly.

One of the benefits about staying at GlenMyu Estate is that there is plenty of space to relax inside when the weather encourages you in.

We have been surprised on how much better the weather is in the hills. The result is that we have been able to spend a lot more of the year outside. 

Fresh air, space, nature ...it's good for you

The combination of fresh air, space and being closer to nature makes you feel good.

We have found that many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate are energised and invigorated when they leave  for their next destination.

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 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.

Anything is better outside Read More »

What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

A hike for everyone

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 best hotels in Uva Provice - guide Pekoe Trail

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.

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 hike for everyone Read More »

The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Rekindle with nature

Rekindle with nature on holiday in Sri Lanka

An opportunity to rekindle with nature.

I was listening to the latest podcast episode of Kermode and Mayo’s Take where Jason Isaacs was being interviewed about his latest role in the film The Salt Path.

The film follows the experience of Moth and Raynor Winn as they walk along the South West Coast Path in England after suffering adversity and losing their home and livelihood .Jason plays Moth in the film and Gillan Anderson plays Moth’s wife Rae. 

During the interview Jason said that he had no idea how staggering the landscape wthat Britain has such a staggering landscape was by the staggering and changing landscape of coastal path on the movies location in Cornwall.

He stated that one of the many things that he got out of the film was to rekindle with nature.

Jason mentions that Ray said that the path was a huge character and turning point in our life.

Both Ru and I believe that the landscape and five acre of land at GlenMyu Estate has had a similar affect on us. Living in this beautiful place has rekindled an appreciation for nature and changed our outlook on life.

We find that many of our guests are also affected by this amazing environment when they stay with us on holiday in Sri Lanka. 

Find out more about The Salt Path

You can watch Mark Kermode’s review of The Salt Path on this YouTube video.

The film is about farmers from Staffordshire that lose their home and their experience of a year long trek walking the southern coastal path in Britain. 

Moth is diagnosed with a terminal illness and the couple’s determination, love and togetherness are a mainstay of the films story.

The film is based on a 2018 memoir by Raynor Winn who records their long distance walk.

Rekindling an appreciation for nature at GlenMyu Estate

Rekindle with nature

How does staying at GlenMyu Estate reconnect our guests with nature?

When we started developing the abandoned tea estate in 2018, we wanted to encourage biodiversity back to the land.

The house has been designed to blend in with the landscape rather than stand out from it. It reflects what we want to do and also some of our personality.

We have planted hundreds of trees and shrubs and have seen an increase in the variety of animals, birds and insects that now forage from the land.

Living with wildlife

When we lived in London we felt that we were as far away from wildlife as we could be. In cities we appear to want to drive all animals and creatures away. Being out of touch made me quite scared when I came into contact with animals unless they were domesticated pets such as cats and dogs.

At GlenMyu Estate we have several dogs, ducks, chickens and even a cow and a bull. (I admit that I am still a little bit scared of the cow!).

There are also many daily visitors to the five acre estate. The Monkeys eat our Jackfruit, Avocados and Mangos.

An array of birds feed from the bounty that is provided by the plants and trees that we have planted around the estate.

Enjoying the landscape and the sounds

There are lots of opportunity to rekindle with nature at GlenMyu Estate.

Wandering around the pathways and breathing in the fresh air.
Listening to the birds early in the morning or as they go back to their nests in the evening. 
Watching the dogs play together after their breakfast which gives them the energy to race around with each other.
Swimming in the pool surrounded by a sea of green and other colours from the flowers and other plants that grow here.

Rekindle your love for nature 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.

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.

Rekindle with nature Read More »

Sitting at the lawn at GlenMyu Estate. Creativity on holiday

Away from it all

Getting away from it all

We are so happy to be away from it all.

Since we moved to Sri Lanka and started welcoming guests to our luxury Boutique Villa at GlenMyu Estate, we really appreciate being away from it all.

There have been many local and global events that we haven’t been able to control and felt helpless. 

Being off the beaten track, surrounded by nature and without a care in the world, GlenMyu Estate has been a haven for us.

Many of our guests that experience GlenMyu Estate feel the same.

It's good for you being away from it all

Surrounded by five acres of the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside, it is easy to switch off and forget about the world.

Getting some release from the negative things that plague our minds on the news and social media is a welcome relief.

It is good for the mind and the soul. As more people think about their own mental health, getting away from it all becomes almost an essential thing to do.

No TV's and a desire to switch off

We don’t have televisions at Glenmyu Estate. 

There are lots of reasons why. We have found that we have benefitted from not having times sucked from us being glued to our favourite shows. 

Guests are provided with a WiFi code and we find that they are nit glued to their phones.

There are enough activities going on a GlenMyu Estate to distract you if you wish.

The landscape at GlenMyu Estate is our television.

Sitting on the sofas in the main lounge watching the clouds dance across the sky is entertainment itself. 

We find that guests reconnect with nature at GlenMyu Estate.

It’s a perfect place to relax and forget about home.

Good for your body, good for your mind

Walking around the garden, breathing fresh air and getting back in touch with nature is good for you.

When Ru provides our guests a garden tour it is also a time of discovery as you get to see what fruits, spices and vegetables we grow on the estate.

We often have families stay at GlenMyu Estate who discover new things as a family. This is great for holiday memories and strengthening family bonds.

Spending time at the wonderful swimming pool on my own, away from it all are precious moments for me.

Swimming as the sun goes down, listening to the birdlife making their way to their nests is an amazing experience. 

It really reminds me of how lucky I am.

I love it when our guests at GlenMyu Estate have similar experiences when they book their stay with us.

Homemade food to nourish your body

We grow fruits, vegetables and spices in the garden. They are the basis for many of the meals that we make for our guests at GlenMyu Estate.

As we do not use any chemicals on the estate all these ingredients are organic. It makes a marked difference to the taste. 

We do also support good local producers by buying local and seasonal produce. 

Apart from not being able to grow all we need, we believe that it is important to be a good neighbour and support local people.

Animal magic

Being around animals helps   take your mind away from home and feel that you are away from it all.

Whether its our ducks, dogs, chickens or cows you will be distracted from the challenges of everyday life.

There is a lot of space for the animals on the five acre estate.

Spending time watching the animals go about their lives is a good way to get away from it all.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and get away fro it all 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.

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.

Away from it all Read More »

What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

Time to think

Time to think

At GlenMyu Estate, I have time to think.

Changing life from a busy city to the Sri Lankan Hill Country has provided me with an opportunity to slow down and be in the moment and be present.

This came at the right time in my life.

I moved to Sri Lanka in 2016. 

Little did I know what I had let myself in for. It turned out to be a completely different experience than I expected.

Gaining time to think

My life was very busy in London.

Getting a work-life balance was impossible. Perhaps, as a people pleaser, I took on too much.

I was ashamed that I could tell you what I would be doing every hour for the forthcoming fortnight. In the past by working like this it may have been a bit of bravado. 

In fact, it was not good for me, my partner, or my health.

When I met Ru, after some years we set out a plan to move to her homeland, Sri Lanka.

There were many reasons of the move. One was so that I would get some life back and gain some time to think.

Too many things on

My life was full but unfulfilled. 

Working long hours at my job, networking strengthening relationship with clients and for business development meant that often I would have a long day.

Volunteering for a local regeneration committee, treasurer of my rugby club and finance committee meetings for the county soaked up a lot of y leisure time. 

Coaching my junior rugby team on Sunday mornings and supporting the mens and ladies teams on weekend afternoons meant that there was very little left.

Fitting in time for friends and family meant that time was fully spent.

A plan to gain more time, get some life back and time to think

Our five year plan to relocate to Sri Lanka turned out to be a seven year plan. 

The idea was that I would no longer work a day job and consider some consultancy down the line. 

Ru would work in London and then in Sri Lanka so we would still have some income coming in.

Not working would mean that I would get time back to think. I has almost given up reading in the UK as I couldn’t find the time or energy.

Sitting back and smelling the roses was something that I hadn’t done for years.

A holiday from work for two weeks was not a full two weeks. Taking into account the couple of days to wind down from getting everything cleared before I went away and the few days before going back really meant that If I had ten days downtime, I was fortunate.

Time to swim - a favourite place that allows me to think

One of the best things we did at GlenMyu Estate was to build the swimming pool.

In the UK I would have had to travel to a pool. There would be restricted times when I could use it and it would be easy not to commit to swimming on a regular basis.

With the natural pool a short walk from the house at GlenMyu Estate, I don’t have much of an excuse to miss my daily dip.

From no dogs to lots of dogs

It was impossible to have pets when staying in our small flat in London.

We were too busy to walk a dog even twice a day.

Having dogs has been one of the things that bring us joy living in the Sri Lankan  Hill country at GlenMyu Estate.

I have time to spend on our needy pets. Grooming them and just spending some time with them at my side on the balcony is a beautiful experience. 

Thinking time

A change of pace and lifestyle has allowed me the  opportunity to have some time to think.

It is not perfect, but not many things are. 

What I love to see is guests at GlenMyu Estate getting some time back to do the things that they don’t ordinarily do back at home. 

We have hosted guests that have sketched, painted, edited their book, played board games or just spent time enjoying the landscape.

It’s pleasing to see that I am not the only one that is able to have time to think at GlenMyu Estate.

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 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.

Time to think Read More »

Beaches in Sri Lanka. Fly from Singapore to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Summer 2025

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.

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.

Sri Lanka Summer 2025 Read More »

Looking uo at GlenMyu Estate

Looking Up

Looking Up!

Looking up at GlenMyu Estate and appreciating nature.

This morning I dumped my phone and just sat on black metal chair next to the lawn.

Listening to the birds, I inhaled deeply and connected with the nature around me. 

Instead of looking at the grass that I needed to cut on the lawn, I looked up.

The early morning sun was glistening through the trees feeding me with vitamin D.

A kaleidoscope of greens and blues in the canopy above are colours that soothe the mind and I feel connected with nature.

I am joined by two of our rescue dogs at my side seeking a comforting touch.

Animals and wildlife are all part of what makes GlenMyu Estate a special place.

I, of course, had to pick up my phone to take the photos and video to add colour to my scribble.

Don’t worry, it was discarded again in quick time so that I could return to my mornings meditation.

Above and below the clouds

There are many places in the house and around the five acre estate where you can connect with nature.

The view from the lounges and the bedrooms often provide you with the sensation of being above and below the clouds.

Watching the clouds form and pass across the valleys below is more fulfilling than watching a screen, however big or small.

Slow down, connect with nature and replenish your soul

We have many guests that stay at GlenMyu Estate who race around the island to tick as many things of their Sri Lankan bucket list as possible.

When they arrive and settle in, many slow down and use their time here to get grounded and reenergised. 

The environment in our five acres of Sri Lankan Hill country appears to guide you to refocus and take some much needed time out.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and appreciate nature

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 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.

Looking Up Read More »

Patch being a guard dog surveying the land

Not all paradise

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.

A garden tour for guests at GlenMyu Estate

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.

Our dogs enjoying GlenMyu Estate

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.

homestay in Sri Lanka

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.

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.

Not all paradise Read More »

Horton Plains in January 2024

Horton Plain Entry Fee 2025

What is the entry fee to Horton Plains National Park in 2025?

 Horton Plains National Park Entry Fee 2025

Many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate enjoy a hike around Horton Plains National Park.

Some of our guests have shared their entry tickets with us so that we can share the information with you.

In February 2025, the cost for two foreign adults was LKR 23,382

This is approximately $82 USD for two adults.

The fee includes a service charge and taxes.

There is a lower cost for local Sri Lankans, which is normal at tourist sites on the island to make it affordable for them.

Hiking at Horton Plains National Park

If you’re planning to visit, it’s worth noting that the park opens early, around 6:00 AM.

Going early provides you with the best chance to catch the stunning views at World’s End.

When you enter the trail, we would recommend that you our left to get to World’s End as early as possible before the clouds come in.

Horton Plains National Park is an amazing experience.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking landscapes and a unique biodiversity.

It sits at an elevation of 2,100 to 2,300 meters (6,900 to 7,500 feet) above sea level.

Horton Plains spreads across over 3,169 hectares of the highest tableland of the island.

The 11 kilometre hike around is a truly unforgettable experience.

Lesser World's End, Horton Plains National Park

Here's what you can expect during your visit to Horton Plains

Horton Plains in January 2024

World’s End


This dramatic cliff with a nearly 1,200-meter drop, offering stunning panoramic views of the valleys and tea estates below. 


If you are lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Indian Ocean.

Baker’s Falls (Waterfall)


A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. 


The waterfall is a short detour from the main trail down some concrete stairs.

We find that it is a welcome relief and a place where the spray can be cooling during your walk.

It provides a serene spot for photos or simply enjoying nature. Here is a family enjoying the beautiful cascade.

Baker's Falls - a family enjoying the view. Family places in Sri Lanka

Find out about staying at GlenMyu Estate when you want to hike Horton Plains.

Horton Plains Sambar Deer

Flora and Fauna

Horton Plains 
is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.


You’ll encounter sambar deer (this one was at the entrance), endemic bird species, and possibly even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard if you’re lucky. 


The landscape is dotted with montane grasslands and cloud forests.

Chimney Pool and Mini World’s End

There are other viewpoints and features along the way.

Each has their own charm.

We would recommend that you don’t rush your walk which will enable you to enjoy this amazing environment.

Be prepared for a hike!

walking holiday in Sri Lanka

The park’s early-morning mist creates an almost ethereal atmosphere, and the trekking trails make it an adventurous yet peaceful experience.

Bring a jacket for the walk as it is cool in the morning and you may get a little bit of rain.

Make sure you bring sturdy shoes or walking boots as some of the early garden parts of the trail can be a little tricky to navigate.

Also, bring plenty of water as it can get warm and you will need to keep hydrated.

If you are travelling from GlenMyu Estate, we provide you with a packed brackfast so you have something nice to eat during you hike.

When should I visit Horton Plains?

The best time to visit Horton Plains National Park is during the drier months which are from January to March. We have had guests at GlenMyu Estate hike the trail in December and some were lucky and some unlucky with the weather.

During this period, the weather is more stable, and you can enjoy clear views at attractions like World’s End without the interference of mist or rain.

Early mornings are particularly ideal, as the skies are usually clearer, and the park is less crowded.

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

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 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.

Horton Plain Entry Fee 2025 Read More »

ID and money

What should I pack for Sri Lanka?

What should I pack for my holiday?

What should I pack for my holiday in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is an incredible destination with a lot of different experiences and environments.

It has natural beauty, rich culture, and tropical weather!

What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

What you need to bring will depend on what type of holiday you plan on the island.

Here’s a suggested packing list so that you can make the most of your trip:

Clothing

Light, breathable clothes:

We would recommend cotton or linen to stay cool in the tropical heat.

A scarf or shawl:
 
Used for covering shoulders when visiting sacred sites such as temples.
These are also handy for the cooler evenings in Nuwara Eliya and the Hill Country.
 
Evening wear:
 
Some restaurants, five star hotels or events may have dress codes. If you are staying at more luxurious hotels, bring along some master clothes so you feel comfortable in the environment.

Comfortable walking shoes:

There are lots of great hikes and walking in Sri Lanka. You will need good walking shoes for hiking in Horton Plains, Knuckles Mountains  and some of the other National Parks. Good walking shoes are essential for the stages of the Pekoe Trail.

Comfortable walking shoes - What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?
What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

Rain gear:

In the tropics, it can rain without much notice.
Packing a lightweight rain jacket or an umbrella will keep you dry during the occasional tropical showers.

Swimwear:

One of the main reasons travellers visit Sri Lanka is for the beach.

Whether you are swimming in the sea, the hotel pool, surfing or snorkelling you will need to pack your swimwear.

Swimming gear for swimming

Essentials

Insect repellent:

The mosquitoes really like me!

Please buy the right strength repellant before you travel to deal with the mosquitoes that are on the prowl in the early mornings and evenings.

Insect repellant
Travel-size toiletries:
 
Most hotels provide soap and shampoo, however you may wish to use a brand that you are familiar with.
 
It’s worth packing some basics like shampoo, toothpaste, etc, just in case.

Sunscreen and sunglasses:

You are in the tropics!

The sun is hot and strong!

Protect your body and eyes from the strong sun.

Sunscreen and sunglass. Travel essentials What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

Medicine:

Please bring your personal medication with you. You may find it difficult getting the brands that you are familiar with on the island.

It may also be worth packing a basic first aid kit, if you have room.

Staying fit and healthy on holiday
Staying fit and healthy on holiday What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

Snacks:

If you are hiking or travelling a long distance bring some snacks with you. 

You will be able to buy food and refreshments at cafes, restaurants and in supermarkets.

However, some of the food may be spicy and you may want to bring your own less challenging snacks with you.

Extras

A Camera or smartphone:
 
There will be so many opportunities to capture the amazing views and sights a camera or smartphone are important items to bring with you!
Camera
Staying connected in Sri Lanka
A Reusable water bottle:
 
You are in the tropics! It’s important to stay hydrated. Although you can buy plastic bottles with fresh water it’s better for the environment if you bring your own and do something for the environment in Sri Lanka.
Staying fit and healthy on holiday - What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?
 Travel adapters:
 
Sri Lanka uses Type D, Type M, and Type G plugs.
 
Guidebook or travel apps:
 
It’s worth doing some research before your trip so we would recommend that you buy a guide book or get a map.
 
You will be surprised on how long it takes to travel around the island compared to your home country, so be prepared!
 
A map or guidebook will help you navigate and learn more about local attractions.
Plan your route with a map - What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

Before you travel - don't forget

You will need a visa to enter Sri Lanka.

The online system is your first port of call. It’s quite effective and you should get a response quite quickly.

What Visa will I need?

Vacccinations

Check with your health service provider on what vaccinations that they recommend to get before travelling.

Make sure that you do this early as some vaccinations, such as anti rabies need a series of shot. Other vaccinations need time to get into your system so that they are effective for when you travel.

What vaccines do I need for Sri Lanka

Money and passport

I know it’s obvious, but these are some of the most essential items that you will need.

Sri Lanka is a country that still uses cash and there are lots of places where you can’t pay with plastic. If they do take cards there is usually an additional card transaction fee.

There are lots of ATM’s around the country and you will have the opportunity to take some cash out for every day expenses.

ID and money

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 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.

What should I pack for Sri Lanka? Read More »

Keeping in touch

How do I stay connected in Sri Lanka?

Staying connected on holiday in Sri Lanka

Staying connected in Sri Lanka has become much easier over the years that I have been travelling to the island.

Mobile coverage is generally quite good around the island.

Here are some practical options for you:

Staying connected in Sri Lanka

Tourist SIM Cards

Tourist SIM cards can be purchased from providers like Dialog or Mobitel at the airport or in major cities. These are the most popular choices for tourists due to their wide coverage and affordable data packages.

There are kiosks operated by the main providers in the terminal before you exit the airport. I have found that the sales clerks have been very helpful. They are happy to put the Tourist SIM card into your phone so you are ready to go. 

A typical tourist SIM card costs around 1,400 LKR and includes generous data allowances. These packages  are perfect for navigation, social media, and staying in touch.

Tourist arrivals in October 2025 make their mark
Keeping in touch

eSIMs

If your phone supports eSIM technology, you can pre-order an eSIM online before your trip. 

EeSIMS are a convenient option as it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. You can also top up online if you find that you need more data and connectivity. 

Wi-Fi Hotspots

Like in other countries, many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.

But, the speed and reliability can vary, especially in rural areas.

Data packages for commercial businesses are high compared to Europe and therefore sometimes the data runs out or the business only offers a slower MBPS to save costs.

Sri Lanka is not set up for you to sit in a cafe all day using the businesses data to work or surf the net. The costs are just too high for the businesses unlike Starbucks or another coffee franchise.

Roaming

This is probably the most expensive option. However, if you want to limit your connectivity, perhaps the cost will allow you to focus on your holiday and forget about back home.

It is recommended that you check with your home mobile provider for international roaming packages.

This option is convenient but is likely to be more expensive than local options.

Coverage

What is coverage like in Sri Lanka?

Coverage is generally good in cities and along the coast, but it can be spotty in remote areas like the Hill Country or National Parks. 

Horton Plains in January 2024

WiFi at GlenMyu Estate

Keeping people connected is important to us at GlenMyu Estate.

Whether it’s keeping in contact with your family so that they know you are safe or with the office we have Wifi delivered by SLT Fibre.

We find that the speed is adequate for our guests requirements.

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 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.

How do I stay connected in Sri Lanka? Read More »

The Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate

How long should I stay?

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.

Relax at the pool
Garden tours around GlenMyu Estate. being present
Dining as a Digital Detox

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.

What should I pack for the Pekoe Trail?

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. 

Ru swimming at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Sri Lanka.

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. 

A morning swim in the infinity swimming pool.

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.

Showing our guests around GlenMyu Estate on the garden tour.
Sri Lankan cookery demonstration

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.

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.

How long should I stay? Read More »

The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Loving life on the balcony

Loving my life on the balcony

Little did I know how much I would love my life on the balcony.

Life on the balcony only play part of my day….but I love this time.

I love my time on the balcony

Sitting on the balcony, listening to the sounds of the birds gossiping in the background, seeing the light provide light and shade on the trees creating an kaleidoscope of greens is where I need to be now.

There is an amazing Sri Lankan Fig Tree next to the balcony. When it fruits it is full of life and sometimes I am joined by birds, monkeys and other animals that forage from the tree.

Birdwatching in Sri Lanka
A Macaque on the tree at the Balcony

Spending time with the dogs

We have several rescue dogs at GlenMyu Estate. I am often joined by one of two of the dogs who survey the land below for any form of predators. 

Clove sits with her chin on the lower railing as she scours the landscape.

It’s a chill out time for me and the dogs.

Joined by one of the dogs on the balcony

Little or no stess

There is little or no stress.
Nature soothes the soul and I have realised how good it is for me.

A good time

I love this time on the balcony.

I am dressed in shorts and a t-shirt.
Little did I know how comfortable it would be spending most of my day out of my two piece suit and shoes.

I think back to February in London. Often there would be snow on the ground to navigate on my commute to the city.
The chill, enhanced by the wind was not pleasant.

Sad to miss the seasons?

Don’t you miss the seasons.
Not at all.
We do have seasons, guided by the two monsoons. but they don’t attack the senses as acutely as that experience in the UK.

February

It’s a February morning, our guests are up early and enjoying the last roam around the garden and dip in the pool before heading towards Negombo.
They fly back to the UK tomorrow to thier lives in London.

I think back to my time in London, which seems to be a lifetime ago.
I do not miss it.

Patch at the balcony

My annual trip does nothing to reinvigorate the fondest I had for that wonderful capital.
I’m often asked what I miss.
It’s eight years since I left the UK and my answer is easy.
Friends and family.

A view of St Pauls in London

What do you miss?

Don’t you miss the food, the theatre, live music and the energy.
I did love all those things, and many more during my thirty years there.
However, with age and experience, Sri Lanka is the right place at this time of my life.

Nature and learning together

Simple food is good food

We eat what is local and seasonal in Sri Lanka. This was how people used to eat before we added air miles to the food we eat by bringing it halfway around the world so we can eat out of season.

What I have found is that the way we eat is healthier and the food just takes better. It helps that Ru and the team are fantastic cooks.

A healthier life

My time on the balcony provides me with some me time. I don’t feel guilty as I think it is a god use of my time. 

You health is your wealth is what the wealthier clients at my bank used to say. Spending time on my own wellness and wellbeing is a good use of my time.

Work on you on holiday in the Sri Lankan Hills

GlenMyu Estate is a perfect place to work on you. 

The space, landscape and being surrounded by nature helps you to switch off. 

It’s easier to detach yourself from your phone when you are in an inspiring environment. 

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 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.

Loving life on the balcony Read More »

Sri Lankan trains

Best places to travel in 2025

The best places to travel in 2025

Sri Lanka is on the BBC list of the best places to travel in 2025.

Already in 2025, the country is seeing record numbers of visitors exploring the island. 

By being featured on the BBC list in ninth position, this will inspire more people to discover this amazing and diverse island in the Indian ocean.

What is the attraction of the island?

The BBC article states that “Sri Lanka is a country that ticks lots of boxes”.

Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of experiences on an island that is similar in size of the Republic of Ireland.

Discover the misty hilltop tea plantations, watch wild elephants in its many National Parks, explore its ancient temples and enjoy the coasts with its rolling surf. 

The Best Places to Stay

If you love nature Sri Lanka offers lots to those who want to spend time outdoors and marvel at the array of wildlife on the island. 

The Pekoe Trail opened in 2023 and walking part of the 300 km route is already becoming popular. 

In Sri Lanka’s many National Parks you will see more than just Elephants. Perhaps ou will see a Leopard, Sloth Bear or Crocodile.

Hiking in Sri Lanka Why we recommend Stage 12 of the Pekoe Trail
Sri Lanka's elephants

Off the beaten path

As tourist numbers increase, it will be more difficult to find places that are not flooded with tourists. 

GlenMyu Estate is located within reach of the popular tourist town of Ella, but far away enough to be away from the crowds. 

With only three bedrooms for guests on the five acre estate, travellers are offered a unique experience without the crowds but within reach of many fabulous sights and hiking opportunities.

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 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.

Best places to travel in 2025 Read More »

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka

ITV’s This Mornings’ Dr Scott explores the animals of Asia

ITV This Mornings' Dr Scotts 'Animals of Asia'

In a brand new series on ITV’s This Morning programme Dr Scott Millar explores the ‘Animals of Asia’.

Dr Scott is embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip around the tropical island of Sri Lanka.

On the 5th of November 2024 Dr Scott was out on safari in Udawalawe National Park, Sri Lanka searching for the Asian elephant.

This Morning - a daytime magazine TV programme

ITV’s This Morning is a British daytime magazine programme that is broadcast on ITV live every weekday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The programme covers a whole range of topics including news, celeb guests, expert advice, real-life stories and competitions, plus a mix of cookery, health and more.

Dr Scott visits Udawalawe National Park to see the Elephants there. 

We can see the reservoir at Udawalawe which provides water for the animals in the park in the distance from our lounge at GlenMyu Estate.

He watches a Crested Hawk Eagle having a bath in the water close to his safari vehicle.

Dr Scott comments that he is in Sri Lanka as it has the highest density of elephants anywhere in the region.

Dr Scott describes himself as a “Broadcaster Author Welfare and Wildlife Warrior” on his Instagram profile.

He also has a Tok Tok channel called Rescue Vet which mainly show his work with animals in the UK.

Rescue Vet

The vet has his own YouTube Channel called Rescue Vet.

This channel shows fresh and new Dr Scott content. It takes a sneak peek inside a Veterinary practice in London.

Sri Lanka - the best place to see animals in their natural environment

According to Dr Scott, Sri Lanka is the nest place to see animals in their natural environment. 

On ITV’s This Morning Programme he focussed on the Elephants 

There however, is a human elephant conflict in Sri Lanka where the elephants habitat is reducing as more development is taking place. 

Sri Lankan Elephants

According to the World Wildlife Fund ‘The Sri Lankan subspecies is the largest and also the darkest of the Asian elephants”

The herd size in Sri Lanka ranges from 12-20 individuals or more. It is led by the oldest female, or matriarch.

The Sri Lankan elephant population has fallen almost 65% since the turn of the 19th century.

Safari Parks in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has many safari parks around the island, all of which provide different experiences to see the animals in their environment.

The most well known is Yala National Park which is on the Southern Coast. Lots of our guests at GlenMyu Estate visit Yala prior or after their stay in the Central Hills of the country. Yala has a wide range of animals that you may see on your safari. 

We can see Udawalawe Reservoir from the main lounge at GlenMyu Estate. This National Park is great if you want to see mainly Elephants.

There are many other National Parks around the country where our guests have provided positive feedback on their visits.

We have been to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks which were particularly good for seeing elephants and birds.

There are many other safari parks around the country which provides a variety of experiences and animals and birds to see.

If you are interested in birdwatching then there are some parks that are particularly good. Sinharaja, Kumana, Bundala, and Gal Oya are just a few of many options.

Building a habitat to encourage animals to thrive at GlenMyu Estate

From the outset building GlenMyu Estate, we were focused on bringing biodiversity back to the once dilapidated five acres of land.

The land was once part of a larger tea estate and then a sugar cane plantation. When the production of sugar cane became uneconomic, the land was abandoned. 

When Ru bought the land, it was overgrown with mainly Guinea Grass, which was brought in to Sri Lanka as quick growing cattle fodder. It took over the land and did not allow any of the endemic species to thrive. 

We have taken some years to take out much of this unwanted grass and aimed to create a food forest. The produce would be a source of food for ourselves, our guests and the animals that visit the estate. 

The forest is still in its infancy, however, Ru loves to give our guests a garden tour to show what we are growing on the estate.

Leaving space for the flora and fauna

We also wanted to make sure that we did not overdevelop the land so that we could provide space for flora and fauna.

Commercially, it would have made sense for us to build lots of other guest accommodation around the estate. However, this would not leave sufficient space to create the habitat for the animals that visit or have their home on the estate.

What animal life will you see at GlenMyu Estate?

Nature does not guarantee anything however we regularly get one of two types of monkey visiting the estate. 

Occasionally you may see a Barking Deer in the distance. 

However, we can almost guarantee that you will see a variety of birdlife foraging at the estate every day. 

Support our work by staying at GlenMyu Estate

By choosing GlenMyu Estate as part of your holiday in Sri Lanka you will be supporting the work that we are doing on the land to encourage wildlife to thrive here.

You will also have an amazing experience, as supported by the guest reviews that we have on various platforms.

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 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.

ITV’s This Mornings’ Dr Scott explores the animals of Asia Read More »

Hiking in Sri Lanka

Glamping in Sri Lanka

Glamping in Sri Lanka

Glamping in Sri Lanka

After Ben Fogle’s experience at Cliff Lodge, near Haputale, Sri Lanka, there has been an increased interest in glamping in Sri Lanka.

Ben Fogle visited Naveen and Anke in his program ” New Lives in the Wild” (Series 18 – Episode 6).

The Cliff Lodge

The Cliff Lodge, is a unique glamping experience in the mountains of Haputale, Sri Lanka

There are great reviews of the experience that guest have at this remote spot in the Haputale mountains.

After a hike of 1.8 kilometres after a Safari vehicle takes you the initial part of the journey you reach the glamping site.

The ruins of some old line houses are where the lounge and glamping pods are located. Line houses were the rudimentary accommodation for workers on a tea estate (built in a line).

You will sleep in a glass pod in one of the ruined stone buildings where you will be able to watch the stars at night.

There is no electricity, no hot water and no internet/phone connection. It really does provide an opportunity to reconnect and immerse yourself in nature.  

Other glamping opportunities in Sri Lanka

Thema Resorts, Sri Lanka - Gal Oya Wild Glamping

Thema group have good quality hotels around the country. 

Gal Oya National Park provides one of the richest and most delicate habitats for wildlife in Sri Lanka. You can take boat safaris in the park to see elephants swimming, crocodiles basking and birdlife up close.

Cinnamon Wild Yala

Several of our guests at GlenMyu Estate have stayed at Yala National Park at Cinnamon Wild.

It’s chalets rather than tents and you have the option of Beach or Jungle.

Leopard Trails - Yala

If you really want top be in a glamping tent in Yala, the roof our guests have stayed at Leopard Trails.

No glamping but closer to nature with a little luxury

At GlenMyu Estate we don’t have a clamping option, however we are focused on getting closer to nature. 

The 5 acre estate is continuing to be developed as a place to attract wildlife and provide a habitat to encourage biodiversity.

We salute guests that like to clamp but we like to offer a bit of luxurious respite as you travel around the island.

It’s particularly attractive for those travellers who want to visit Ella, but don’t want to stay in a busy tourist spot.

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 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.

Glamping in Sri Lanka Read More »

Sri Lanka's elephants

Top 10 places to visit in 2024

Ryan Shirley, includes Sri Lanka in his Top 10 places to visit in 2024.

US YouTuber and seasoned traveller, Ryan Shirley, recommends Sri Lanka amongst his Top 10 Places to Visit in 2024.

He says that it is one of the places he most wants to visit this year.

Who is Ryan Shirley?

According to his YouTube Bio, Ryan “Started making magic and science videos, now 8 years later I’m moving towards travel cinematography”.

He has an amazing 735k subscribers and 178 videos as at June 2024. 

Sri Lanka is a lush island country

Ryan says that Sri Lanka is a “lush island country” located off the southern tip of India.

The island is small in size but it packs a large punch with the variety of experiences that you can have whilst on holiday.

An incredible coastline

Sri Lanka has an incredible coastline.

The variation of the beaches as you travel around the island is amazing.

Whether surfing, scuba diving, sailing, swimming, seeing turtles or just getting a tan, it offers everything you would want.

Top 10 places to visit in 2024 -Going on Safari in Sri Lanka

There are lots of opportunities to enjoy seeing animals on safari when on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate, either visit Yala or Undawalawe National Parks to see the wildlife before or after staying with us. 

Some guests have been on safari near to the Lion Rock at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks. 

There are other safaris that you can take around the country also such as Wilpattu or birdwatching in Kumana National Park, Bundala national Park or Sinharaja Rain Forest amongst others.

Visiting the Lion Rock

One place that is a reasons for Sri Lanka being on Ryan’s top 10 places to visit in 2024 is the Lion Rock.

Sigiriya, the Lion Rock has an incredible story and is an amazing place to visit.

The rock is one of the images that you will see on most of the tourist guides. 

Climbing the rock early in the morning and reading about the history of the Kings 5th century palace makes this a unique place to visit.

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Train journeys and a beautiful bridge

One of the incredible experiences is a train journey through the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside. 

Many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate take the train from Kandy to Haputale. 

They do a day trip to Ella and visit Nine Arch Bridge along with other sights including Little Adams Peak, Ravanna Waterfall and much more.

Ryan says that Sri Lanka is an underrated country. That must be a reason to visit the island and make up your own mind. It is why it is on his list of top 10 places to visit in 2024

Watch Ryan Shirley’s travel guide to see what he says about Sri Lanka for yourself. 

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 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.

Top 10 places to visit in 2024 Read More »

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is among Holidify’s “best countries for tourism”.

Sri Lanka is among Holidify's Best Countries for tourism

Sri Lanka is among Holidify’s Best Countries for tourism in the World.

It’s number 6 on their list of 79 countries.

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Holidify - a one stop solution for travel planning needs

According to the Holiday website, the company is a one stop solution to all your travel planning needs.

They attempt to collect all the information that you will ever need to plan your trip.

Additionally, they solve the number of questions travellers have before making a trip – from when, where and how. They also find the hidden gems in every destination, 

Why do Holidify rank Sri Lanka as number 6 on their list?

They say that the island is known for its:

Spectacular beaches
Thousand-year-old Buddhist temples
Abundance of wildlife
Rich archaeological history.

Furthermore they mention

The plethora of water sports
Breathtaking sunsets
Sprawling tea gardens
Mouth-watering Sri Lankan food

They say that the best time to visit is between December to April.

Sri Lanka is also good to visit outside the main tourist season

We believe that Sri Lanka is also a great place to visit from June to September.  

The East and North coasts are monsoon free and you can also visit the Sri Lankan Hill country.

We expect to see more visitors finding Sri Lanka as a place to holiday throughout the year.

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.

Sri Lanka is among Holidify’s “best countries for tourism”. Read More »

Ben Fogle’s New Lives in the Wild, Sri Lanka

No televisions, no problem

No Televisions, No Problem!

No Televisions, No Problem

I don’t know about you, but I really didn’t enjoy watching television when I was away on holiday.

Whenever we would get to our hotel room my wife and I would flick through the channels to find something that we would like.

Ben Fogle’s New Lives in the Wild, Sri Lanka

There is something about watching television when you are in your own country. 

You know what you like, you know when the program is on and you know where to find your favourite programme.

I can't find it, there are too many advertisement breaks.

We tended to watch a lot fo BBC programmes in the UK and therefore didn’t to have to deal with advertisement breaks. 

There is something about the rhythm of the programme, even when you watch commercial tv, that is quite comforting. You are used to the timing and the length of the advert break. Years of programming our brains makes it alright.

BBC Masterchef - select your channel

Television abroad - no thanks

However, I used to get frustrated watching television on holiday as the rhythm wasn’t comfortable for me.

It was a real turnoff.

So, I didn’t watch any television programmes when I went on holiday.

The world has changed

Since moving to Sri Lanka in 2016 the world has been through some incredible changes.

Sitting down in front of the television to relax after a stressful day in the office is no longer the norm.

The global pandemic left lots of people stuck at home looking for entertainment to while away the hours.

Netflix and other streaming services became the go to place for entertainment. Binge watching box sets was what everyone was talking about.

When we were in the UK we only watched a few programmes when they were being broadcasted. Most if what we viewed was on catch up.

 

The importance of internet speed on holiday.

No televisions at GlenMyu Estate, no problem

Since living in Sri Lanka we have been weaned off television.

I could see from our first six months on the island that we really craved our favourite programmes that we enjoyed together. 

However, as we couldn’t get our usual BBC programmes, we used to buy the occasional DVD and watch them together.

The environment in the Sri Lankan Hill Country has changed our requirements in life. It’s hard not to be affected by the surrounding nature. Whether it’s the noise from the birds, the ever changing view from the lounges or spending time on the five acre estate, sitting in front of a square box does not seem to be important now. If we don’t know who is in Masterchef, the Bake Off or Strictly, it really doesn’t matter.

The views around the Estate - Creativity on holiday

Immersed in nature

Living in London for many years we were really out of touch with nature. So many people living in big cities must be in the same position.

I don’t know what happened to me.

In the UK I wasn’t interested in birds and trees. My inquisitiveness appears to have been injected into my veins since living here. Planting trees and watching them grow, getting up early to catch the birdsong or making sure I catch the sunset sky.

It’s hard to get the feeling over to you. You really need to come and experience this for yourself.

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.

No televisions, no problem Read More »

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Tourist numbers in Sri Lanka are rising

Tourist numbers in Sri Lanka are rising.

The tourist numbers in Sri Lanka are rising.

For the fourth month in a row over 200,000 travellers per month have visited this paradise island.

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka

A great result but.....

It was reported in the Sri Lankan Daily Mirror that there were over 200,000 arrivals in March 2024.

However the total was lower than the target set by the Sri Lanka Tourist Board.

The online newspaper reported that “In March, the island nation welcomed a total of 209,181 international visitors, a 66 percent year-on-year growth”.

See the month on month growth at the SLTDA

After the challenging years of the global pandemic and then the financial crisis it is good to see number tourist numbers rise. It’s an important part of the economy on the island and creates employment for lots of people. 

The Sri Lankan Tourist Development Authority (SLTDA) publishes weekly and monthly tourist arrivals on their website.

Click on the button to see the statistics.

Why are tourist travelling in numbers to Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a small island off the tip of India, but it as so much to do and see there on holiday.

The island is brimming with a rich history, diverse culture, spectacular wildlife. There are stunning landscapes and unparalleled experiences to enjoy.


You can go on exciting safaris, taste incredible cuisine, enjoy beautiful weather and so much more

Noen Arch bridge
Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka.
Horton Plains in January 2024
Colombo Airport to Negombo

A variety of beaches around the island

This small island has a diverse offering of beaches around its’ coasts. 

The South and West coasts are great to visit from December to April.

Visiting the North and East costs are best from May until September. 

The beach bar at Maalu Maalu
Beaches in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka - the most family friendly country
Wake up early for the Sunrise

Ella and the Sri Lankan Hill Country

There are so many great places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

Ella Town is around one hours drive from GlenMyu Estate. Most of our guests visit Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall and climb Mini Adams Peak.

Chill Bar, Ella - Where are the best hotels in Uva Province
Ravana Waterfall Ella

Our guests also visit great sights such as Lipton’s Seat and Upper Diyaluma Waterfall.

Enjoying the sunrise at Lipton's Seat - One Day Trip
Alone at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall

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 such as 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.

Tourist numbers in Sri Lanka are rising Read More »

Sleeping well on holiday

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka.

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka.

Things that make us happy at GlenMyu Estate, a special place in the Sri Lankan hill country.

Best places to visit in Sri Lanka with friends

I should be

At this time in the morning, around 9 am, I should be helping with preparations for breakfast. The dogs get fed around this time also. But everything will have to wait a little as I really wanted to capture my feelings this morning.

Not long enough

There are some moments that bring a smile to my face and warmth into my heart.

We were fully at GlenMyu Estate last night and all of the guests are leaving this morning. They all would like to stay longer, but holidays are shorty when you live in the western world. One set of guests have been here for four days which is what we recommend. They still say that they would like to stay longer though.

The other set of guests (a family of four) have only been here two nights. They have gushed about their say here and will be great promoters of GlenMyu Estate to their friends and family.

That feeling

I had delivered a pot of locally sourced organic tea to our guests who had started the day by the swimming pool.

At around 6 am there was lots of mist obscuring the views from the house however, by 8 am the sun had cleared the obstruction providing a beautiful morning.

One of the guests at the pool had been there earlier than his partner. He had brought his book and was enjoying the view and the sounds of the birds in the background providing music at the start of the day.

I thought what a wonderful start to the day and a beautiful moment to enjoy and remember. 

As the guests had already been here for four nights they knew that they had a delicious breakfast to look forward to. I had overheard them raving about the breakfasts, and especially the breads, to the other guests when they had arrived.

Both my Ru and I love it when guests enjoy the food that we serve. It is the icing on the cake of our small enterprise in the Sri Lankan hills.

About last night

Yesterday evening provided another beautiful moment at GlenMyu Estate

The family of four staying consisted of parents and their children who were in their early twenties. From experience, I know that sometimes there is a disconnect between parents and children as they get older. 

We have had other families stay and you could see that there was a great family bond and going on holiday with mum and dad was a joy and not a chore. 

That special moment

After another fabulous meal of Sri Lankan Prawn Curry, salads and Roast paan followed by dessert of course, the family stayed chatting for a while at the table. Mum retired to bed.

The father and the two adult children went to the balcony and sat chatting and taking in natures night time sounds. 

What an incredible moment for the family to enjoy and remember.

My heart was aglow again knowing that we had created a little sanctuary where families can connect and strengthen their bonds.

What beautiful moments will you create on holiday in Sri Lanka.

I’m so happy that I took the time out to record these moments and the feelings that they created for me.

Perhaps you will created your own special moments with family and friends yourselves in the Sri Lankan hill country.

Please press the WhatsApp button to enquire about availability and the best direct booking rates. 

Creating special moments at GlenMyu Estate

Add Your Heading Text Here

Stay at GlenMyu Estate - create your special moments in the Sri Lankan Hills

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.

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka Read More »

6 reasons why holidays are good for your health

6 reasons why holidays are good for your health.

Our 6 reasons why holidays are good for your health.

Reset and recharge at GlenMyu Estate in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We find that lots of our guests have the plan to go out and explore the wonders of the Sri Lankan Hill country. However, we have found that several guests charge they plans and spend the day at the five acre estate. 

It is important that you plan some downtime as you travel around the island. Many guests have found that GlenMyu Estate is the ideal place to reenergise, relax and give some time for their wellbeing. 

However, if you want to explore, hike or walk, there are plenty of opportunities to satisfy these needs. 

1.Opportunities to be more active

You are naturally more active.

Completing your 10,000 steps each day on holiday feel so much easier than at home.

One the things that is great to do on holiday is explore and take in the sights. The ‘distraction’ of taking in all of the picturesque scenery takes your mind away from how many steps you have completed.
You will probably end up walking most of the day.

Strolling around the city visiting museums, art exhibitions and seeing historic properties, or just enjoying exploring a new place is a great way to exercise whilst focussing on other things.

Accidental exercise

There are so many places in the Sri Lankan Hill country to get some “accidental exercise”.

You may also find yourself doing activities such as swimming in our natural pool at GlenMyu Estate a few times a day and expending lots of energy.

There are plenty of opportunities of hiking nearby. Lipton’s Sea, Horton Plains National Park and Upper Diyaluma Waterfall are all at a high elevation. You will find that you work your body a little harder than nearer to sea level. 

Surely, accidental exercise is the best form of exercise!

2. A chance to recharge your batteries

Going on holiday provides plenty of opportunities to recharge your batteries and get away from it all.  

One of the main reasons we love to travel is so we can relax on holiday.

Even just planning the vacation can boost your feeling of happiness. It also gives you something to look forward to.

Being away from your usual day to day pressures can reduce  stress levels.

Relaxation helps to drop your blood pressure. This in turn  reduces the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in your blood.

A New Year's resolution - to swim every day.

So, there is no harm in spending as much time by the pool as you like!

Downtime on holiday is also great for giving your mind some respite.

The key element is to spend quality time doing whatever it is that helps you decompress.

Getting a good nights sleep is another thing many of us don’t get enough of.

A holiday usually gives you the opportunity to both sleep and rest.

At GlenMyu Estate we find that our guests manage to get a good nights sleep. The temperate in the Sri Lankan Hill country means that we do not need air conditioning. Many guests are not used to air conditioning and have not slept well as they are disturbed by the sound. They also get dehydrated which also upsets their sleep.

The temperature at night at GlenMyu Estate is within the range that scientists recommend which helps you have a good nights sleep.

Comfortable beds

3. You can experience something new

Whether you take a city break, or a trip to the country, you will find plenty of new scenery to enjoy.

By travelling abroad you will meeting new people and experience a new culture. You will also meet fellow tourists to share your experience with and get some recommendations on what is great to see and visit.

Adapting to new situations in a country where your language is not their first language can stimulate and engage your mind. This is both helpful for your mental health and also has the benefit providing a sense of creativity and wellbeing.

Many of our guests find that Sri Lanka is a soft entry into Asia. Although you will come across some challenges with communication in some parts, mostly the island is easy to navigate your way around. People in Sri Lanka go out their way to help you and are not necessarily looking to be rewarded financially for their assistance.

Things to see on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Here are our Australian guests enjoying the sunrise at Lipton’s Seat.

This is a memory that will stay with them for many years to come.

It’s moments like this that are good for you, your relationship and your health.

Enjoying the sunrise at Lipton's Seat - One Day Trip

4. Get closer to nature and embrace the elements

For many of us, a change in the weather is reason enough to go on holiday!

Lots of travellers visit Sri Lanka during the cold Northern Hemisphere winter. Mid December to early April is the peak tourist season on the island. The weather is good on the south and west coasts. You can top up your tan during at the beaches on there coasts.

There is a good reason to spend time in the sun. Science has revealed that being in the sun (in moderation of course!) gives your body a boost of vitamin D. This can promote strong bones and create a more effective immune system along with boosting energy levels. 

It is important to ensure you stay well protected in the sun. Use a high SPF sunscreen and avoid the sun when it is strongest.

5. Time to think and a chance to reset

Spending time away can give you a good chance to reset.

Perhaps you have noticed that you have developed some bad habits over time. It can feel overwhelming trying to rectify them indoor usual setting. But a holiday can provide us with the break and time to reassess your current situation.

6. Holidays are good for mental health

It is becoming clearer that holidays are hugely beneficial for our mental health.

Where else can you spend doing the things that you love, than being away on holiday?

Whether it’s by yourself or with loved ones you will have more time to be in the moment with them.

A family holiday creates an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen bonds.

Solo travel provides a time alone where you have time to think without everyday  distractions.

It can be incredibly healing and provide an escape from a busy schedule.

Being away can give you the time to enrich your mind, reset and focus on your mental wellbeing. 

6 reasons why holidays are good for your health - Summary

  1. Opportunities to be more active.
  2. A chance to recharge your batteries.
  3. You can experience something new.
  4. Get closer to nature and embrace the elements.
  5. Time to think and a chance to reset
  6. Holidays are good. for mental health.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and focus on your wellbeing.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate will provide an opportunity to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country. Visit sights like Horton Plains National Park, Mini Adams Peak, Lipton’s Seat and many more.

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.

6 reasons why holidays are good for your health Read More »

Podcasts that I like

A High Performance Holiday

A High Performance Holiday?

A High Performance Holiday?

The title of one of my regular podcasts intrigued me. Here’s what I learnt from The High Performance Podcast.

I listen to lots of podcasts

One of my pastimes in Sri Lanka at GlenMyu Estate, in between visitors, is to listen to podcasts.

Some are educational, some are for my mental health and others are just for fun.

A recommendation from a guest

One of our guests and I were chatting about podcasts. He runs a successful business in Colombo and continues his business education with a mentor.
The mentor suggested that he listen to The High Performance Podcast.

This was a podcast that was not in my list of regular listening. The guest liked the podcast as there were lots of interviews with renowned and successful sportspeople, amongst others.
As the guest was interested in a range of sports there was a motivation to listen regularly to this podcast.

The High Performance Podcast

This podcast is hosted by Jake Humphrey and Professor Damian Hughes.

Jake is a former television presenter. He stepped away from presenting sports to concentrate on the High Performance Podcast.

Damian is a Professor of Psychology and Change. He has written several books and is a keynote speaker.  

They aim to “turn the lived experiences of the planet’s highest performers into your life lessons”.

A High Performance Holiday

A High Performance Holiday.

This is a catchy and intriguing title is important to capture ones interest and it worked with me. 

The shocking statistics around the British holidaying public

A British Airways Survey for YouGov revealed that “survey reveals 50% of UK working adults do not take their full annual leave allocation”.

Amazingly ” a third of working Brits (36%) who did not take their full annual leave said it was because they ‘just didn’t get around to it”.

And “42% confessed that they have felt stressed about work whilst on holiday”.

Do you check your work emails when you are on holiday?

Yes lots of people do!

The survey revealed that “48% have checked work emails whilst away and more than a third (39%) have gone one step further and responded“.

Taking your leave is good for you

A 40-year study by the European Society of Cardiology revealed that taking a holiday could help people live longer.

At the ESC Congress in Munich, Germany (28 Aug 2018), Professor Strandberg said: “The harm caused by the intensive lifestyle regime was concentrated in a subgroup of men with shorter yearly vacation time. In our study, men with shorter vacations worked more and slept less than those who took longer vacations. This stressful lifestyle may have overruled any benefit of the intervention. We think the intervention itself may also have had an adverse psychological effect on these men by adding stress to their lives.”

The dangers of presenteeism

Feeling that you always have to be present at work, always connected and available is dangerous in the form of stress and burnout. 

Whoop (the Health Monitor Band company) employees are rewarded for getting adequate sleep and rest. What a great idea.

Always working on holiday?

They realise that fully shutting off from work is not always possible. Sometimes a compromise is required. Jake has an agreement with his wife that his work phone is locked in a safe all day and in the evening he is allowed 10 -15 minutes to pick up work calls and e-mails. 

Joe Wicks has a technique where he takes time out as “mini retirements” where he takes on less work and is present with his family and friends.  This was a result of hearing a phrase “don’t wait until you are older to retire, have mini retirements every year”.

The main elements required for a High Performance Holiday

A second phone

Dr Peter Atia gave Damian and idea to have a sequin phone so that he could turn off.

What a great idea! (apart from the potential landfill question when phones are at the end of their lives).

Having a phone that is only used for personal and family matters can allow you to switch off from the office. If it does not have WhatsApp, Email and job related accessibility, it can just be used for family photos and family calls. 

The value of getting new ideas and energy

Alex Scott loves to travel. She gets her education and learning about life from travelling around the world, learning about different cultures and meeting people.

She says that it gives her so much energy and makes her fell alive.

Prioritising going on holiday.

Getting the team to take full responsibility when you are away.

It’s sometimes hard to delegate but it can be really good for your team. If you can get your team on board that when a colleague is on holiday they will not be contacted under any circumstances it will be good for both you and your workmates. 

Show me your calendar

Shane Pariss did an exercise with Jake where he asked him what are the most important things in his life?

Jake replied “his children, his wife and finding some time for himself”.

Shane then asked him to show him his diary and he would show Jake his priorities!

Tips on how to have a High Performance Holiday

Jake and Damian provide a few tips on how to have a High Performance Holiday.

Delete all, your work apps (or lock your phone up or get a non work phone).

Plan your holiday well in advance.

Create a boundary in the office where no-one is contacted whilst on holiday.

Keep away from tech when you are on holiday

Be where your feet are – make sure you are fully there and connected in the moment when you are away.

Have some downtime between activities – holidays should not be totally organised. 

Remember why you are going on holiday.

Can GlenMyu Estate provide elements of a High Performance Holiday?

There are elements that allow our guests to have a high performance holiday when they are at GlenMyu Estate.

Although we do provide free Wi Fi for our guests we find that it is not used very much when they are here on holiday. The environment appears be right for people to switch off and appreciate the environment and enjoy nature.

I love it when I see guests sitting on the sofas in our lounge reading a book or just watching the clouds.

Walking around the estate or spending time at the swimming pool is a good form of exercise bot physically and mentally. The opportunity to listen to the bird song, watch our ducks in the stream or pet our dogs are simple things in life away from all the tech back home.

We find that our guests really do switch off

Although lots of our guests do explore the wonderful sights in the hill country, many change their plans and just spend time on the estate to relax.

Watching guests pick up a pencil and start drawing on a notepad, playing badminton as a family or swimming in our pool is a good use of their downtime.

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

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.

We find that our guests really do switch off.

A High Performance Holiday Read More »

The Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka.

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka.

Actually, you will find you will want to stay longer once you experience it here.

Read our reviews and you will see that this is what our guests say.

It's a great feeling.

We feel great when our guests say that they will be back. 

Now, you could just interpret this as them being polite or trying to make us feel good.

What we have experienced, however, is that several guests have already returned.
Others have given recommendations to friends and family who have stayed with us. Many of our guests plan to come again in the future, and we are confident that they will.

I should have told you.....book more than one day

When we receive a booking on Airbnb or Booking.com for just one night, I don’t feel comfortable saying it’s not enough.

We don’t want to look like we are money grabbing as that is far from what we are. 

For many of our guests, it is their first time in Sri Lanka, and they try to see the whole island in one trip.

The fact is, there is so much to see on this tiny island, that you cannot do anything but touch the surface on your first trip.

Once you come here, you will want to stay longer

There are many reasons why guests want to stay longer when they come to GlenMyu Estate.

Exhaustion

Traveling around the island is quite exhausting.

Your senses are hit by all kinds of colours, smells and range of temperature.

Sri Lanka is a fantastic holiday to spend your holiday.

However, it does take longer to get from A to B and it can be quite tiring. 

Activity levels when you spend hours behind a desk

Sri Lanka can be full on when it comes to activity. If you are not ready for this, you can get quite tired.

Lots of the sights to see have lots of steps to climb.

When you are doing these kinds  of activates in the heat and when you are not normally active it can be quite exhausting.

Just think about skiing. You are supposed to do exercises to increase the strength of your legs and things before you go. If you were take part in any physical activity you are advised to warm up and warm down. 

Maintain your fitness on holiday- hike the Horton Plains

Great experiences like climbing the Lion Rock in Sigiriya or doing the pilgrimage to Adams Peak have lots of steps.

It’s a challenge going uptime and sometimes more painful coping down!

Coping with the heat and humidity

Most of our guests are not used to the temperatures around the island. Anaradhapura and Polunnaruwa are in the dry zone.

Enjoying the temples
A temple in Anuradhapura

Being at the beach is a lovely experience.  However, we regularly see the sigh of relief from guests when they arrive to a more accommodating temperature in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

Wake up early for the Sunrise
Maalu Maalu - swimming at the East Coast of Sri Lanka

A good nights sleep, without the need for air-conditioning

We are fortunate to be in an area where are located as the temperature usually results in a good nights sleep. 

Several guests have arrived at GlenMyu Estate either tired from the noise of an air conditioning unit, or with  the onset of a cold. It takes some time to get used to using air conditioning unit and getting the right temperature for you. 

The good news at GlenMyu Estate is that the temperature in the Hill country means that we don’t use air conditioning. With minimum(night) and maximum temperature (day) range between 16.5 °C (61.7) °F and 26.4 °C (79.5) ° during the year according to Climate Data.

Real Simple state that “For the best possible sleep environment, keep your bedroom between 16 °C /60 °F and 22 °C/ 72 °F, (65 degrees/18 °C is typically ideal)”.

The food, the food, the food! You will want to stay for more than one day.

We are starting to get a reputation for the food the Ru and the team serves to our guests.

Eating at GlenMyu Estate is an experience itself.

Read our reviews and see what our guests say about the food.

Dining as a Digital Detox
Vegan desserts - Cinnamon and Pineapple Sorbet

More than a stay, an experience

This is a quote from our Polish guest Greg, who wrote this line in his Google review of his stay here.  

We believe that it really reflects what we are all about at GlenMyu Estate and have now taken this quote as our strap line.

So much to see, one day would never be enough

There are so many great experiences and sights within reach of Glenmyu Estate. Staying for one night means that you will not be able to touch the surface here.

Here are some photos of Matt and Millie who experienced Upper Diyaluma Waterfall pools on the way to GlenMyu Estate.

They also saw a spectacular sunrise at Lipton’s Seat.

What they didn’t get to do was a hike at Horton’s Plains and see the view from World’s End. Maybe next time!

So, if they had stayed for one day, they would not have had these superb experiences.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate for more than one night and explore the 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.

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka Read More »

Colombo Airport to Negombo

Sri Lanka among Top 5 Travel Destinations in 2024

Sri Lanka is among the Top 5 travel destinations in 2024

Sri Lanka is among the Top 5 travel destinations in 2024.

Find out why you should visit this paradise island in Asia this year.

Colombo Airport to Negombo

Sri Lanka is making the news.

It is among the top five travel destinations in 2024.

Travel Off Path
The world-leading travel news source, Travel Off Path, has a reputation for providing the most up to date and relevant news for travellers across the globe

They highlight the exotic nature, warm climate, colourful culture, and amazing food that you experience when visiting the island.

It is also known as one of the cheapest locations for digital nomads

This paradise island has a slower pace of life by the beach, with plenty of culture and natural wonders to keep you entertained in your downtime

The other four destinations named in the list by Travel Off Path are Tunisia, Mexico, Morocco and the Dominican Republic.

They told you in 2023!

This article follows on from Travel Off Path’s article of early 2023. They reported  that Sri Lanka should be on travellers radar in their article “6 Reasons Sri Lanka Should Be On Your Radar This Year”.  

The article mentions the new The Pekoe Walking Trail which has some of the 22 stages close to GlenMyu Estate.
The train journey through the island’s lush and tropical tea country and crossing Nine Arch Bridge is also highlighted. This is also a favourite day trip by our guests that stay at GlenMyu Estate.

What is there to see in Sri Lanka? Why does is make the Top 5 travel destinations in 2024 list?

Sri Lanka has so much to see and experience that it is not a one trip destination.
The island is small, but it packs a big punch!

Diverse landscapes, a rich cultural heritage and stunning beaches, Sri Lanka has something for every type of traveller.

Whether you are an adventure tourist wanting to hike through lunch rain forests or climb magnificent peaks, or a history buff interested in exploring ancient temples and historical sites, a wildlife lover wanting to see a variety of animals or just want to relax at the beach, Sri Lanka can provide what you want. 

Hiking Trails and Peaks to climb.

The new Pekoe Trail covers 300 kilometres in 22 stages as it travails a lush landscape and tea trails. 

Horton Plains is an 11 kilometre hike through a montane cloud forest with spectacular viewing points.

Adam’s Peak is a religious overnight pilgrimage.

Little Adam’s Peak, Ella is a short hike to see a beautiful view.

Knuckles mountain range provides a tougher challenge and is suitable for the more experienced hikers.

Explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural history.

Immersing yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural history is one of the highlights of visiting the island.

Experiencing the ancient cities of Polunnaruwa and Anuradhapura’s magnificent ruins will provide insight into what was achieved by the people of this island hundreds of years ago.
Climbing the Lion Rock in Sigiriya delivers history and a beautiful view.

As you travel around the island you are likely to come across one of the many festivals that take place in towns and villages.

A diverse landscape.

Wet zones, dry zones and intermediate zones provide a diverse landscape to enjoy. 

The geographical diversity provides the opportunity for travellers to experience different landscapes and activities.

Horton Plain National Park is a favourite destination for our guests at GlenMyu Estate. Places like this provide a natural beauty that needs to be seen before it changes as the country develops further.

Wildlife and wildlife parks.

The diverse wildlife that you can experience in Sri Lanka adds reasons for the country being a top travel destination in 2024.

Whether it’s elephants, leopards, crocodiles, eagles or samba deer you want to see there are lots of opportunities around the island.

Yala is the most famous National Park for safaris on the island. However, Udawalawe, Wilpattu, Minneriya and Bundala are a few others on a larger list for you to visit.

A variety of beaches around the island.

If you just want to relax at the beach then Sri Lanka offers a variety of beaches to enjoy.

Different parts of the island provide opportunities for diving, surfing, kiteboarding and just long sandy idyllic landscapes. The weather and what side of the island is affected by they two monsoons will determine what is available to you.

And the food.

As Sri Lanka is an island and it has several ports, the food culture has been affected by many facets.
Invaded by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British has flavoured the dishes that are on offer.
The traders that came from different parts of the world also added spice to the recipes that are on the tables of homes and restaurants.

There is an array of curries and street food for you to savour which will change in the part of the island that you are located.

Why should I visit Sri Lanka in 2024?

Sri Lanka welcomed over 200,000 visitors in December 2024. 
In December 2023 it received just 91,000.

As tourist numbers increase, the tourist hot spots will become more crowded, and you will miss the opportunity to experience Sri Lanka before it gets too popular.

The government in Sri Lanka have grand plans for increasing tourist numbers further, so we would recommend that you plan your trip in 2024.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate in 2024 and 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.

Sri Lanka among Top 5 Travel Destinations in 2024 Read More »

Birdwatching in Sri Lanka

Birds at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

Birds we have seen at GlenMyu Estate

At GlenMyu Estate we have seen lots of different types of birds since we have been living on this beautiful 5 acres in the Sri Lanka Hill Country.

My photographs are not that great and my SLR was inoperable some years ago so I have taken these pictures with my mobile phone or pocket Nikon camera.

I’m sure that you could do so much better than I have.

When I was younger I wasn’t as interested in birds however I was living in London and there was little to see.

Since moving to this beautiful Paradise Island my interest has changed so  much. It’s hard not to admire these beautiful creatures when they are singing early in the morning and swooping their way across the landscape.

Here are some of the birds that I have managed to capture, mainly from my pocket Nikon Camera.

Some of the birds have spectacular colours which are impossible to miss when enjoying the day at GlenMyu Estate.

Many of the bird are just too fast for me to catch or see. I have bought a set of binoculars so that I get to see some more of the species that visit the estate. I would recommend that you bring some binoculars with you when you stay at GlenMyu Estate Hotel so you don’t miss out.

There are lots of endemic birds that visit GlenMyu Estate. Once of our neighbours has seen almost half of the endemic species in Sri Lanka in the area. She has been birdwatching since she was a little girl and is full of knowledge and can even identify some from their birdsong.

Our own birds at GlenMyu Estate

We also have ducks and chickens at GlenMyu Estate.

They roam around the land and forage and are a delight to watch. I consider them my kind of meditation as I watch them wander and get on with their daily business.

Ever so often we have new life at GlenMyu Estate as the ducks and the chickens get broody from time to time and sit on their eggs. If you are lucky enough to be staying at GlenMyu Estate when they hatch you will be amazed on how quickly they adapt to life. We have seen duckings eating insects as soon as the hatch from the egg and also have seen some swimming on day one!

Nature is amazing and it is a great privilege living with nature.

Birds at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka Read More »

Birdwatching in Sri Lanka

Birdwatching holiday in Sri Lanka

Birdwatching Holiday in Sri Lanka

If you are interested in a birdwatching holiday in Sri Lanka?

The Island is a great place to spend some time to discover the birds that visit here.

Birdwatching in Sri Lanka is something that you can do in all parts of the Island however there are spots where you will see a wide variety of species. 

The Island of Sri Lanka is truly a birdwatching paradise. 

You don’t have to be a ‘twitcher’ or ‘birder’ to enjoy and learn about the residents and migrants to the Island.  

Our interest in birdwatching at GlenMyu Estate has increased as it is hard to ignore the wonderful creatures that enjoy the 5 acre estate.

Where is Sri Lanka on the map?

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean is tropical island in the situated 10 degrees north of the equator.

On the Map it looks like a teardrop falling from the southern coast of India.

The Island boasts diverse and favourable climatic conditions for a wide range of birdlife.

It also has a range of natural habitats including forests, scrublands, grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural lands. 

Being surrounded by the Indian Ocean and close to the tip of India it plays host to various migrant birds at different times of the year.

Sri Lanka at 65,610 km 2 (similar in size to the Republic of Ireland) is quite small but has a great range of birds for your to see.

What Birds visit the Island?

It is home to 439 species of birds:

236 are breeding residents

203 migrants and the rest vagrants.

There are 34 endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka.

There are also somewhere near to 200 seasonal migratory birds both terrestrial and aquatic.

They travel to get away from the Northern winter from as far as Siberia, Scandinavia and Western Europe.

They arrive around August -September and leave around April-May. 

What are the Endemic birds in Sri Lanka?

Ceylon Jungle Fowl – (Gallus lafayetii)

Ceylon Wood Pigeon – (Columba torringtoniae)

Ceylon Green Pigeon – (Treron pompadora)

Ceylon Spurfowl – (Galloperdix bicalcarata)

Layard’s Parakeet – (Psittacufa calthropae)

Ceylon Hanging Parrot – (Loriculus beryllinus)

Red-Faced Malkoha – (Phaenicophaeus pyrrhocephalus)

Green-Billed Coucal – (Centropus chlororhynchos)

Serendib Scops-Owl – (Otus hoffmanni)

Chestnut-Backed Owlet – (Glaucidium Castanonotum)

Ceylon Grey Hornbill – (Ocyceros gingalensis)

Yellow-Fronted Barbet – (Megalaima flavifrons)

Ceylon Small Barbet – (Megalaima rubricapillus)

Crimson-Backed – (Chrysocolaptes stricklandi)

Ceylon Swallow – (Hirundo hyperythra)

Ceylon Wood-Shrike – (Tephrodornis affinis)

Black-Capped Bulbul – (Pycnonotus melanicterus)

Yellow-Eared Bulbul – (Pycnonotus penicillatus)

Ceylon Whistling-Thrush – (Myophonus blighi)

Spot-Winged Thrush – (Zoothera spiloptera)

Ceylon Scaly Thrush  – (Zoothera imbricata)

Sri Lanka Bush Warbler  – (Elaphrornis paljiseri)

Dusky Blue Flycatcher – (Eumyias sordidus)

Brown-Capped Babbler – (Pellorneum fuscocapilius)

Ceylon Scimitar Babbler- (Pomatorhinus melanurus)

Ceylon Rufous Babbler – (Turdoides rufescens)

Ceylon White-Eye -(Zosterops ceylonensis)

Ashy-Headed Laughing Thrush – (Argya cinereifrons)

Legge’s Flowerpecker – (Dicaeurn vincens)

Ceylon Crested Drongo – (Dicrurus lophorhinus)

Ceylon Blue Magpie – (Uroc’ssa ornata)

White-Faced Starling -(Sturnornis albofrontatus)

Ceylon Hill-Myna – (Gracula ptilogenys)

Birdwatching on holiday at GlenMyu Estate, Beragala, Sri Lanka

We do not offer birdwatching tours however it is hard not to get enthralled with the different types of birds that visit the 5 acre estate during the year.

Our interest in birdwatching has been elevated since we have been living in the Hill Country.

We have also found our guests to be fascinated by the birds that they discover whilst staying here.

Here are some photos and videos of what we have seen at the Glenmyu Estate to whet your appetite. No doubt you have a better camera than we do and therefore should get better pictures and videos than we do!

For more videos of the birds that visit GlenMyu Estate please click on our YouTube Link.

If you want to find out more about GlenMyu Estate please visit our website.

Where can I go on a Birdwatching Holiday in Sri Lanka?

Kumana National Park

The main bird sanctuary in Sri Lanka is the Kumana National Park which has 18,149 hectares and is located in the South East part of Sri Lanka in the Easter sector of Yala National Park..

It has a 200 hectare natural swamp lake, called the Kumbukkan Oya.

This is a Mangrove swamp where many water birds nest in May and June.

You can regularly see Pelicans, Painted Storks, Spoonbills, White Ibis, Herons, Egrets and Little Cormorants.

Sinharaja Rain Forest 

This forest is located in the South West of Sri Lanka and it houses a tropical rain forest.

It covers 8,864 hectares and is at an altitude of between 300 – 1,170 metres.

60%of the trees in the forest are endemic to Sri Lanka and many of those would be considered rare.

The forest attracts a lot of endemic wildlife – especially birds.

It is also home to over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies.

There are also many types of insects, reptiles and amphibians.

Some of the birds found in the forest are as follows:

Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon (Columba Torringtoni)

Green-billed Coucal (Centropus Chlororrhynchus)

Sri Lanka White-headed Starling (Sturnus senex)

Sri Lanka Blue Magpie (Cissa ornate)

The Ashy-headed Babbler (Garrulax Cinereifrons)

Sri Lanka Broad-billed Roller (Eurystomus orientalis irisi).

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Kalametiya is a coastal wetland area that has an especially rich bio-diversity and is great for a birdwatching holiday in Sri Lanka.

Is located on the South Eastern coast of Sri Lanka, in tHambantota district.

The sanctuary has a mix of marine and birdlife due to the coastal lagoons, mangrove swamps, scrub jungles and open grassy areas.

Large lakes in the dry zone mostly attract a large number of ducks .

The wetlands such as Weerawila, Kalamatiya and Bundala national park are where larger aquatic birds such as Storks, Herons, Egrets, Spoonbills, Pelican, and ibis can be seen. 

Migrant birds arrive during mid-August nd settle along the lagoons and salterns of the coast areas.

The types of birds that can be seen include Sandpipers, Stints, Plovers, Terns and Harriers.

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park lies on the Southern Coastof Sri Lanka and stretches across nearly 20 kilometres along a coastal strip between Kirinda and Hambantota.

September to March are the best months to visit the Park

There are around 200 species to be found at the park.

You are likely to see the following birds whilst own a birdwatching holiday in Sri Lanka.

Greater Flamingo

Common Redshank, 

Petite Blue Tailed Bee-eaters

Indian Peafowl 

Bodinagala Forest Reserve

Peak Wilderness Sanctuary

Kitulgala Forest Reserve

Yala National Park

Wilpattu

Udawalawe

Wagamuwa

Wasgamuwa

So, if you are considering a Birdwatching Holiday in Sri Lanka, we hope that this post has been helpful to you.

Birdwatching holiday in Sri Lanka Read More »

A Small Minivet

Birds of Sri Lanka – what you might see at GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

What kind of birds live in Sri Lanka?

What birds will I see when I stay at GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, Sri Lanka?

We are lucky at GlenMyu Estate to have an environment that is attractive to birds and we have a variety that we regularly see here foraging, nesting and swooping around the land.

Here are some pictures and videos of birds that I have seen visiting the Estate.

Unfortunately my camera and video are great for capturing the birds and if you visit the estate with better equipment you will no doubt get much better pictures than I have!

Here are some videos that I have taken of some birds that visited the estate.

We are also very lucky to have a neighbour who has a lifelong interest in birds and bird watches daily. She has identified a large number of the 34 endemic species of birds that visit this part of Sri Lanka.

How do I find out more about Birds of Sri Lanka?

If you want to know more about the endemic birds of Sri Lanka, the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka has a complete list pf birds and additional interesting information in the following link https://fogsl.cmb.ac.lk/list-of-birds-of-sri-lanka/

Another website where a community identifies birds is https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/birds-of-sri-lanka

Avibase – The World Bird Database gives details of the birds and also some examples of bird song https://avibase.bsc-eoc.org/avibase.jsp?lang=EN

The Ceylon Bird Club is another good resource http://www.ceylonbirdclub.org/endemic_birds.php

Books?

I use “A Photographic Guide to theBirds of Sri Lanka” by Gehan De Silva Wijeyaratne which I find has some good pictures to help identify the birds.

Find out more about GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and B & B, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

There are three king size on suite bedrooms for guests which all have superb views of the hills below. 

A natural spring fed swimming pool is available for the use for guests and is a great place to have a refreshing swim or just hang out listening to the nature that passes by.

The House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.
Light falling on the Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.
The Luxurious Mango bedroom at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. Wonderful for Valentine's Day in Sri Lanka

Where is GlenMyu Estate?

You can find out where we are on the map below.

Birds of Sri Lanka – what you might see at GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, Sri Lanka. Read More »

Scroll to Top