Nine Skies by Teardrop Hotels, Ella, Sri Lanka Review

Rating 9/10

Nine Skies by Teardrop Hotels offers a charming and intimate escape in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. The stunning location, colonial charm, and personalised service make it a delightful choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat. While the boutique nature of the hotel means fewer amenities, the beautiful surroundings and serene atmosphere make it a unique and memorable destination. Improvements in accessibility and a more varied menu could further enhance the overall guest experience.

9/10

Location

Nine Skies by Teardrop Hotels enjoys a prime location amidst the lush tea plantations of Ella, providing guests with breathtaking views of the rolling hills and verdant landscapes. The hotel is conveniently close to the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, a famous architectural marvel and popular tourist attraction. The nearby Demodara Loop is another unique site where the railway track passes under itself, creating a loop. The station is unique due to its rare 360-degree substation loop that allows visitors to see trains circling the station from the hotel’s garden. These attractions, along with the proximity to Ella Rock, make Nine Skies an excellent base for exploration. The serene and remote setting offers a peaceful retreat, though accessing the hotel involves navigating narrow, winding roads, which adds to the adventure of reaching this secluded gem.

9/10

Style and Character

Housed in a beautifully restored (2018) tea managers of the Concordia Estate’s bungalow, Nine Skies exudes colonial charm with a blend of modern comforts. The décor stylishly brought up to date with contemporary furnishings, coir carpets and cosy nooks for hiding away. The garden is small yet impressive – backed by a billowing boarder of multicoloured blooms, there’s a sizeable lawn and swimming poll with an infinity edge offering views spanning the valley. The atmosphere is sociable and inclusive; you find yourself chatting to fellow guests at mealtimes or over sundowns in front of the log fire. The intimate setting is perfect for those seeking a quiet and refined retreat, though it may not appeal to those preferring more contemporary luxury.

8/10

Service and Facilities

Service at Nine Skies is generally warm and attentive, with a small team providing personalized care to each guest. The hotel offers a limited range of facilities, reflective of its boutique nature. There is a small outdoor pool with stunning views of the tea estates, ideal for a refreshing dip. The garden and outdoor seating areas provide perfect spots for relaxation. While there is no formal spa, in-room massage services can be arranged. The hotel also organizes guided walks through the tea plantations and surrounding countryside, enhancing the guest experience. However, the limited facilities might not satisfy those seeking a wider range of activities and amenities.

Bar

Laundry

Pool

Room Service

Croquet

Parking

Restaurant

Wi-Fi

9/10

Rooms

With only 5 rooms at Nine Skies they are spacious, well-appointed, and elegantly decorated, maintaining the colonial charm with modern amenities. Each room features comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms with premium toiletries, and beautiful views of the gardens or tea plantations. The rooms are designed to offer a tranquil inviting retreat.

9/10

Food and Drink

The hotel’s dining options focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a mix of Sri Lankan and international cuisine. Meals are typically served in the main dining room or on the veranda, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic surroundings. The quality of the food is high, with well-prepared and flavorful dishes. However, the menu can be somewhat limited, especially for longer stays, and some guests may find the lack of variety restrictive. The intimate dining experience is well-suited for those who appreciate a more personal and home-like atmosphere.

8/10

Value for Money

With an average price of around USD 400-650 per night, Nine Skies offers a unique and intimate boutique experience in a stunning location. The personalised service, charming accommodations, and beautiful setting justify the cost to some extent. However, the limited facilities and dining options might make the price seem steep for some guests. The value is best appreciated by those seeking a quiet, personalised retreat rather than a full-service luxury resort experience.

Access for guests with disabilities?

The hotel, due to its historic nature and hillside location, presents several challenges for guests with disabilities. There are steps and uneven pathways throughout the property, and no elevators. While the staff are helpful and willing to assist, the overall accessibility is limited. Guests with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate the grounds and facilities comfortably.

Family-Friendly?

Nine Skies caters more to couples and solo travelers seeking tranquility rather than families with children. While there are no specific facilities or activities for children, the hotel can accommodate families with extra beds in the rooms. The serene environment and lack of child-specific amenities might not be ideal for families with young children, though older children might enjoy the nature walks and tea plantation tours.