In his quest for the ultimate location to create his dream sanctuary, planter Norman Bostock and his son Mark, chose no less than the scenic slopes of Bandarawela. Bostock’s dream was realized as the Kirchhayn bungalow, nestled in the midst of the Aislaby tea estate and farm.
In 1947, a young Mark Bostock under the guidance of his father embarked on his career as a planter having just returned from the UK. He along with his father, who had bought Aislaby estate and farm a few years prior, developed it into the leading tea estate in the Uva region and probably the most up-to-date tea factory of its time.
Every detail of a true English bungalow is encompassed within Kirchhayn, from its rolling lawns manicured to perfection, the flower beds tended to with utmost care and its characteristic architecture that blends perfectly into its surroundings.
Three generations of the Bostock family lived at Kirchhayn bungalow and the aura of colonial times lingers even today. The sepia photographs on the walls tell the story of the luxurious life experienced by those who were privileged enough to live there.
The bungalow thrives in its own serenity away from all main roads and the only bustle one may notice comes from its courteous staff.
Kirchhayn has five wonderfully large and airy suites; all named after the personalities who made Kirchhayn the special place it is. The Bostock suite is the master bedroom, named after the owners of Kirchhayn. The large bedroom accommodates a king-size four poster bed, with tall classic French windows leading out to the manicured garden just outside.
The Pyman Suite was fondly named after Mark Bostock’s maternal grandfather. A sitting area tastefully decorated with rattan furniture is a feature of this room. The Wickwar Suite was named after Surveyor General A.J. Wickwar, Norman Bostock’s original partner, who was instrumental in the building of Aislaby Estate. Lushington Suite takes its name from Ronnie Lushington, the former expatriate manager of the Aislaby Estate. And finally the suite chosen as the ‘honeymoon suite’ is the Taylor Suite after James Taylor, the father of tea in Ceylon.
The bathrooms in all the suites are spaciously laid out and are perhaps the only feature in the bungalow that has been touched by modernity.
Today open to holiday makers, the bungalow is the epitome of relaxation and comfort, the staff ever ready to accommodate the guests’ every wish.
Whether a traditional Sri Lankan feast, or a continental spread, the cuisine at Kirchhayn is worthy of mention. Most of the meats and vegetables are sourced from Aislaby’s own farm so the produce is organic, fresh and local. You are constantly approached with offers of ‘a cuppa’ – Aislaby tea that is. And if you’ve had your fill of tea, why not a cup of Kirchhayn coffee, or even a glass of wine from their well stocked cellar.
The main corridor of the bungalow leads from one end to another. The lounge that looks onto the verandah is fittingly decorated with light rattan furniture and soft cushions. The dining area which is usually used for evening meals is a picture of old world charm and oozes with character- from the small lantern-like candle holders to the collection of picture plates mounted on the side board. A large living room has a large screen TV with cable facilities and extensive DVD library should the weather keep you indoors.
Need to have a little activity? There’s croquet on the lawn, a spot of tennis on the grass tennis court, a walk through the tea plantation or a slightly more adventurous trek up to the patna- where breathtaking 360 degree views of the whole area around await.
There are many little excursions too that can be undertaken from Kirchhayn. Nuwara Eliya, is an hour and a half drive away. Ella gap, famed for its stunning views, a mere 40 minutes drive away and another site of historic significance, Adisham Bungalow is close by. Many more excursions can be organized depending on guests’ preferences.
(Kirchhayn Bungalow, Aislaby Estate and Farm, Attampitiya Road, Bandarawela. Tel: 057 492 0556 or 0777681616; www.kirchhaynbungalow.com. Rooms from Rs.14,750 on half board basis) |
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