Goatfell

Spend the day exploring the best of Nuwara Eliya with a local guide who knows the town inside out. This city tour gives you a relaxed, enjoyable way to take in its sights, stories and everyday life, without needing to plan anything yourself.

Your first stop is the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, one of the oldest in Asia. Set among rolling greens and old trees, it’s a peaceful place with a strong sense of history. Next is Victoria Park, perfect for a slow stroll.

It’s known for its colourful flower beds, well-kept paths and the chance to spot birds along the way.

From there, head to the Nuwara Eliya Post Office, an iconic red-brick building built in the late 1800s. Its old-world charm makes it one of the most photographed spots in town.

You’ll then visit Lake Gregory, a large, calm reservoir surrounded by open lawns. You can try boating, walk along the banks or just sit and take it all in. It’s a lovely place for a break.

At Bale Bazaar, also called the winter market, you’ll find clothes, good bargains and fresh produce. It’s a great stop if you want to browse like a local and maybe grab some strawberries or warm wear.

Finish off with something sweet at Adma Agro Strawberry Farm Shop. Known for its simple but satisfying strawberry desserts, you can choose from strawberries with cream, condensed milk, juice or jam.

If you’re up for more experiences, there’s the option to combine this tour with visits to nearby spots like Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Moon Plains or Galway’s Land National Park. Just ask your guide or butler to plan it for you.

If you enjoy walking, wildlife and wide-open spaces, Horton Plains National Park is worth waking up early for. This highland plateau in central Sri Lanka is unlike any other part of the island.

You’ll walk through open grasslands and dense cloud forests, pass rocky cliffs and come across quiet waterfalls and still lakes. It feels peaceful and untouched.

The most popular route is a seven kilometre loop, best enjoyed in the morning. It takes you to Baker’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall tucked into a forest and two lookout points: World’s End and Mini World’s End.

These dramatic drops offer you amazing views of the plains below. On clear days, you can see all the way to the southern coast.

Birdwatchers will have plenty to look out for – many of the birds here are found nowhere else. Along the trail, you might also spot deer, monkeys or even a mongoose or two if you’re lucky.

With over 90 species of birds and many types of plants and animals, the park offers something new around every corner.

The walk is moderately easy, making it ideal for most visitors who are happy to take their time and enjoy the scenery. Good walking shoes and a light jacket are useful and don’t forget your camera. The light in the morning is perfect for photos.

Their team can arrange this trip for you and provide a packed breakfast, so you can set off early and make the most of the cool air and quiet surroundings.

Let them know the day before and they’ll get everything ready. This is one of those experiences that stays with you – peaceful, wild and full of surprises.