Elephant Stables Hotel, Sri Lanka

The Elephant Stables has been lovingly restored, combining mid-century Planter's furniture and chic modern design. Guests are able to experience the ambience of a Ceylon Planter's residence while also enjoying all the luxuries of a boutique hotel. Ideally located only ten minutes away from the historic Old Town area of Kandy, on a private road high on Pita Kande Hill, the hotel offers magnificent views on all sides, including the dramatic Knuckles Mountain range and the Mahaweli River valley below.

The Old Wing largely consists of the original residence of Sir Cudah Ratwatte, including the Dining Room, Reception, Living Room and three bedrooms. The New Wing is (as the name suggests) an entirely new extension, including the Bar, reading area and two of the bedrooms. The sixth and final room is located in the garden.

The wall surrounding the hotel was constructed with the help of Sir Cudah Ratwatte's two Elephants, Sella and Mudiya, who hauled the large rocks up the hill. Initially under supervision of the Masons, towards the end of the 18-month construction period the Elephants had allegedly learned how place the rocks themselves without further human assistance! The wall remains the largest stone wall in Kandy.