Hotel review: a boutique stay at Goatfell in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Nuwara Eliya’s rolling tea estates, Goatfell is a charming boutique hotel and a real gem in this lush region of Sri Lanka.

As part of the Teardrop Hotels group, Goatfell promises an elegant retreat with just the right amount of luxury.

I’ll be honest, the drive to get to the hotel feels somewhat treacherous, comprising a bumpy single-track road that seems to go on and on.

But believe me when I say that it’s well worth it, as the hotel benefits from an impossibly tranquil location with jaw-dropping views across Nuwara Eliya.

I had the pleasure of staying at Goatfell for two wonderful nights and here I share my honest review.

Rooms and ambiance: a nod to colonial elegance

The hotel’s architecture and interiors pay homage to its colonial past, blending historic elegance with modern luxury. 

With only four rooms and a nostalgic charm, the hotel very much feels like a home-from-home – in all the best ways.

Each room features plush furnishings, spacious bathrooms and a cosy living area, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The result is that Goatfell feels a bit like a homestay but with all the luxury touches and hospitality of a hotel.

With such a small number of rooms, Goatfell is about as boutique as it gets.

This sense of intimacy and privacy was one of my favourite parts of staying here – it was a stark contrast to our previous stay at Shangri-La Colombo.

While both luxury hotels, they offer distinctly different experiences.

Dining at Goatfell

The dining experience at Goatfell was another highlight of our stay. Meals were a celebration of Sri Lankan flavours, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

For those who prefer something more familiar, the menu catered for all tastes. From traditional Sri Lankan dishes to international and Western dishes.

You can enjoy your meals in the cosy dining room or opt for an al fresco experience on the terrace, overlooking the tea estates.

Due to the slightly chillier climate in Nuwara Eliya, we generally ate breakfast and lunch outside, but stayed inside for dinner. 

I’d definitely recommend trying the traditional hoppers for breakfast – they were an absolute delight.

Post-dinner, evenings were spent by the log fire with a glass of red wine and a game of scrabble. Wonderfully wholesome and extremely enjoyable.

Experiences: from adventure to relaxation

We had initially planned to spend our time in Nuwara Eliya exploring the area and visiting the different attractions.

But we were having such a delightful time at the hotel, that we decided to mostly stay put, choosing instead to relax and unwind.

It’s not often you find yourself in such a beautiful, peaceful environment, so we simply had to make the most of it!

The staff at the hotel are on hand to help you explore the area if you’d like. From guided walks through the tea estates and scenic picnics to botanical gardens and epic waterfalls.

Goatfell’s location serves as a perfect springboard for exploring the natural beauty and cultural sites of Nuwara Eliya and the central highlands.

If you choose to spend your stay at the hotel, I’d really recommend a game of croquet on the lawn to get the competitive juices flowing! 

Or simply relax on the sunloungers, soak up the views, and go for a dip in the infinity pool.

Final thoughts

I couldn’t not mention the service at Goatfell, which was impeccable. Each staff member went above and beyond to ensure our stay was comfortable and memorable. 

With its excellent service, exquisite surroundings, and a warm welcome that reflects the best of Sri Lankan hospitality, Goatfell stands as a jewel in the crown of Nuwara Eliya’s hotels.

I really believe it’s the best place to stay in Nuwara Eliya and I’d whole-heartedly recommend booking in for a couple of nights. 

Book here

Have a read of my guide to visiting Nuwara Eliya for my top tips and best things to do. Or watch my Nuwara Eliya vlog for more insights into our stay:

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