Deep in the heart of the picturesque Hewaheta Valley in the central hills, off the historic city of Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's very first tea plantations. Here, surrounded by cloudy peaks sits an old English manor – once home to a British Planter Mr. Dominic Elwes, who built it over a century ago. Now revived as a nostalgic haven, Taylor's Hill is a luxurious retreat to all who wish to revisit the comforts of a colonial past.

A gentle breeze, cool and crisp rustles the leaves of an ancient ‘Bo' Tree. The sprawling baobab – spreading its branches wide, stands impressive; as it has done for centuries. The piercing whistle of a Ceylon Grackle - an endemic bird of the hills, cuts through the air. On cue, the heavy mist floats by to reveal the wooded outcrops behind the bungalow and the distant ranges bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. The stage is set for another beautiful evening at Mandira Taylor's Hill – and warmth beckons you from indoors.

Let time return to the 1900s. A wide wooden staircase curves upwards from the hallway. Chandeliers glow in unison along the length of the long corridor. Luxurious sofas embrace the vast drawing room where the grand old fireplace still sits in proud. Heavy drapes keep the cool nights, firmly outdoors. The adjacent Billiards room is home to the truly magnificent 150 year old table, still in pristine condition and ready for a round of play. A haven of comfort awaits upstairs. Five plush bedrooms carefully redesigned to take you right back to a colonial past, yet with all the requisites of this century to indulge in. Two, include separate living rooms offering wonderful vistas of the distant mountains. The magnificent master suite with its own fireplace, also boasts another extravagance – a bath with a view. Intricate antique furniture – authentic pieces handed down from generations add a sense of grandeur. With beauty and breathtaking charm meeting you from every corner, the lush comforts of a time past, is yours to enjoy once again.

Swathed in cool mist, range upon range of mountains fade into the distance. From the vantage point of the sprawling green lawn you can watch their splendour. Towering trees flank the bungalow on both sides. Tall pines reaching heavenwards, rub shoulders with age old giants with twisted wide girths revealing their age. An ancient mango tree – hundreds of years old, stands guard at the forecourt. Brightly coloured lilies nod approval as you pause to listen to the lilting birdsongs, floating in with the gentle breeze. A few steps below the lawn yet hidden in a world of its own is the vast infinity pool. With breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks from all around, you might be tempted to laze in its cool waters all day long. Down from the winding pathway, the lush green of tea takes over. From every nook of the acres of gardens, tranquillity reigns and is yours to enjoy – whether you just sit in calm repose, or enjoy a meal out on the green.

In the colonial days the plantation residences were famed for their cooks. The ‘Appu' as they were called, were modest, but wonderful chefs who were able turn out exceptional dishes whether one requested a roast or a red curry. This tradition is heartily continued to this day and here, you can feast on fare of your choice – from the East or West from the menu, or you can ask for your favourites to be prepared anytime too; just give us a little advance notice to find the freshest ingredients of course.

And then, you have the difficult decision to make as to where you want to enjoy your meals. The stone floored breakfast room certainly lives up to its name. Bathed in early light, it's the perfect corner to start the first meal of the day. Or, there's the cosy morning room with wide windows and wonderful views. Lunch could be al fresco by the poolside; high tea on the lawn like the days of old and the beautifully lavish dining room for a grand meal complete with all the trimmings. Whichever choice you make the delightful dishes are always served with heartfelt smiles.