Just six kilometres away from Bandarawela town is MF estate bungalow. The tea holiday bungalow has not been converted from a neglected tea plantation residence to cater for moneyed tourists. Instead, it is built especially for discerning local or foreign visitors.
The value is in the enviable atmosphere of old-fashioned style and love of heritage that will touch your heart even if you stay only a couple of nights. And mercifully it has none of the minimalist horrors of modern architecture.
The entrance to MF estate bungalow (named with the initials of the two brothers who own it) reveals so much about the character of the place. There is a discreet sign by the wrought-iron gate, a well-swept driveway with a classic Mini motorcar parked to one side under a marquee, a green lawn of soft grass, and a varnished bungalow façade adorned with hanging potted plants. In a flowerpot on a ledge, a tiny black bird peeps from its resting place for the night. You know then that if birds feel safe here, you’ve come home.
This entrance hall is like a gallery, hung with old photographs at ceiling height showing the area’s history, antique prints and maps, and with cabinets containing the owner’s collection of wooden figurines and other objets d’art. The restaurant décor features a wall-hung artistically with old cutlery and a counter of antique bain-maries.
The guestrooms feature a décor that immediately suggests sedate comfort. The wall behind the double bed in each room has been hand-painted by a local artist. With scenes of the hills and misty views. The natural temperature of the mountains precludes the intrusion of air-conditioning and fans, letting cosiness prevail. Each bedroom has an ingenious sofa for two that flips open to transform into a second bed. The ceilings are of wood, the floors carpeted from wall to wall.
The tea holiday bungalow is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing while touring Sri Lanka, or for a fun holiday with family and friends. Rooms with breakfast are available for two at around Rs8,000 a night. The entire bungalow without meals but with a cook on hand to prepare dishes from guests’ self bought provisions, rents at Rs40,000 a night and can sleep 20.
Things to do at MF Estate Bungalow Bandarawela
Well, there is a television in every room and in the lounge, where there is also WiFi connectivity. But best to get out, stroll the rugged paths through the tea plantations or go on a picnic hike with a guide (arranged by the bungalow, together) to local places of interest. At night, settle down with noggin and a good book and thank the stars you’ve found a cosy niche in the hills.
Getting to Bandarawela
By train to Bandarawela and then tuk-tuk, or bus up the Ettampitiya Road to Pattiyagadara (also known as Uda Malwatte or Duwanagriya) Junction. Or transport can be arranged from anywhere in Sri Lanka on request when booking.
Sri Lanka Holiday Guru Tip
The dishes served from the very low-priced menu (no extra service charge or government tax to pay) are delicious. The meals are a pure Sri Lankan natural cuisine, using locally-sourced vegetables. Only fish or chicken, no pork or beef. Alcohol is not sold on the venue so guests should bring their own. There’s no corkage charge.
MF Holiday Bungalow, Pattiyagadara. Bandarawela; tel: (+94) 72 3501919 or (+94) 572222618; email: info@mfholidaybungalow.com; www.mfholidaybungalow.com
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