Floating mountain villa stays true to its name

18/OCT/2023

Location

The Floating Mountain Villa is situated in the beautiful town of Ramboda. To reach it, you’ll need to pass the famous Glenroch Tea Factory and drive through a stunning tea estate all the way to the hilltop.

Experience

Corrected: They provided us with detailed instructions for the location, and our butler kept checking in on our arrival. He advised us to meet at the Glenroch Tea Factory, and when we arrived, Akila was already there to pick us up. We parked our vehicle at the factory, and Akila took our luggage to their 4×4 vehicle, as we had to travel on a gravel road to reach the hilltop.

We received a warm welcome with the welcome drink and garlands. As soon as I entered the property, it took my breath away.

Accommodation

This villa has 5 bedrooms, all of which offer a beautiful view. The room we stayed (Magnolia room)in had a balcony. The bathroom, while not overly spacious, was organised and clean. I particularly loved the interior decor and the view from the balcony. The bathroom was equipped with all the amenities we needed, and the room was very pleasant and inviting.

The interior of all the rooms has been meticulously arranged according to their respective names, and the attention to every little detail is evident.

Food

When it comes to the food, it was absolutely delicious, and we were impressed by the way they presented it. The butler took our menu orders and consistently ensured our stay was smooth and enjoyable. They even arranged a BBQ dinner with a wide variety of meat items, and the servings were very satisfying. Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit the kitchen, which was always open to visitors, and I must mention that it was exceptionally clean.

Things to do/ Activities

Ramboda has much to offer for its visitors, and even though we were there for two nights, we couldn’t experience all the excursions they had to offer. Each activity was unique, ensuring that you never got bored.

Sunrise walk with picnic

We embarked on a sunrise hike with a picnic to the top of the mountain, and the view was absolutely breathtaking. From that vantage point, you could see the villa below, and we felt like we were walking above the clouds. The hike took us through stunning tea estates, and they had thoughtfully arranged snacks on a rock, always presented beautifully.

Peacock hill

The Peacock Hill is just a few kilometers away from the property, and they will arrange a trip upon your request. It’s a 2-3 hour hike up and down, and if you’re fortunate, you’ll be treated to an amazing view. Unfortunately, we weren’t so lucky. They also arrange for a guide and provide water for the hike.

Tea plucking / Tea testing

If you love to experience tea plucking, then this is the place for you. I’m sure you will enjoy it and gain knowledge through the tea tasting experience.

kothmale dam

We visited the Kotmale Dam during our stay. The Kotmale Dam is a substantial hydroelectric and irrigation dam located in Kotmale, Sri Lanka. It features an educational hall where you can read articles and view models that explain how it was initially constructed and how it functions.

Kothmale maha weli maha saya

This is also few km away from the property. The stupa was constructed in remembrance of more than 50 submerged temples and the individuals who lost their properties due to the Mahaweli Development Program in the early 1980s. The Mahaweli Development Project stood as the largest development initiative undertaken in Sri Lanka following the country’s independence.

Hanuman temple

The Hanuman Temple is located just one and a half kilometers away from the property, and it’s said to be the second-largest Hanuman temple in Sri Lanka. I was amazed by the rituals they perform in the temple, and it’s surrounded by a beautiful view.

Rjapihilla

Kotmale Raja Pihilla is situated in the village of Kotmale in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is renowned as the royal bathing site that was once used by one of the greatest kings of Sri Lanka, Dutugemunu. As a prince, Dutugemunu had fled from the Ruhunu kingdom after a falling out with his father, King Kavantissa. You can visit this site as a guided tour, and Akila will provide an explanation of its history.

Ramboda falls

Ramboda Falls is easily accessible and often crowded. However, Akila took us a little way up, where there was no one around, allowing us to enjoy the falls while taking a dip in peace.

Puna falls

Puna Falls is only 20 minutes away from the property, and they will provide a guided tour if you request one. The short hike to the falls is definitely worth the view.

Staff and Service

The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, and I must give special mention to Akila, who was exceptionally attentive and took care of us like family. I often wondered if he ever had time to eat, as he was always ready to fulfill our every request. Not only that, but he was very knowledgeable about the area, how to manage things, how to interact with customers, and, in addition, he’s a genuinely nice person. You can gain a lot of knowledge about the country and tourism from him.

Review

If you have any plans to visit the Ramboda side, I genuinely recommend this villa, where you will feel right at home. The only complaint I have is that even if you plan for two nights, it won’t be enough. So, be sure to book more than one night. You’ll thank me later.

I hope you enjoyed reading my blog.

I’ll meet you again soon with another one. Don’t forget to share your questions and thoughts in the comments.

Cheers,
Stephi