A visit to Mandira Craig Appin, a holiday bungalow situated in the cool climes of the Dickoya estate in Hatton, is akin to stepping back in time to old Ceylon. Built in the early part of the 20th century, the Craig Appin Bungalow still retains the architectural style of the Colonial era as it was originally intended as a home for tea planters of the period.
Holidaying here offers one the unique prospect of experiencing life as it was a century ago. From the ambiance of the bungalow and the warm service provided to the spectacular vistas that envelope the location, the experience is evocative of a way of life long departed.
Operated by Sunshine Travels and Tours, a subsidiary of Sunshine Holdings, Craig Appin Bungalow has been refurbished to provide guests with the comforts of modern living. However, great attention has been paid to enhancing the old-world charm of the building. The spacious four-bedroom house, with a lounge and dining area, has been lavishly decorated with furniture and accessories reminiscent of Colonial times.
The tranquility of the surroundings alone brings life back to a bygone time when the pace of living was much more laid back than the inescapable flurry of activity of the present day.
Guests at Craig Appin Bungalow not only experience the ambiance and setting of old Ceylon, they are also treated to the warmth and personalised hospitality typical of the time. Each guest is met on arrival by the bungalow’s Operations Manager, who will introduce the Appu, or butler. Based on guests’ preferences, meals can be enjoyed in the comfortable dining room or in the garden with a view of acres of tea plantations laid out before you. Picnics can be prepared for more active visitors. The staff pays attention to the smallest details such as turning over bed-covers at night so that beds are prepared for guests to sleep in.
Craig Appin is only one of the bungalows run by Sunshine Travels and Tours. There are two more bungalows, Mandira Dick Oya Bungalow and Mandira Strathdon Bungalow, also in the Hatton area.
For more information about Mandira Bungalows visit www.mandirabungalows.com |
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