St Andrews offers spacious luxury amidst the cool climes

It's cool and comfy

Once, over a century ago this proud Tu- dor-style building was a planter's private bungalow. Today it is one of Nuwara Eliya's landmark hotels. St. Andrew's Hotel is thought to have been fashioned after its namesake hotel in Scotland. As early as 1916, the Tudor style building was advertising lodging and food in the Ceylon Traveller.

Built at the foot of the tallest peak of Sri Lanka, St. Andrews overlooks a part of the golf course and the wooded single tree hill. Once you enter through its gate into the manicured lawns and rose garden, you leave the bustle of the plantation town behind. Tall cyprus trees sway like lofty giants in the cool wind that blows down the forested Pedro peak above the hotel.

Flowers are aplenty, potted geraniums in a riot of colour along the entrance, a large bowl of creamy lilies on the landing, fresh roses adorning the dining tables, and carnations in the rooms.

The hotel rooms are designed for spacious luxury. High ceilings, long windows and fire places. The two wings of the hotel- the old and the new- are distinctly different in character. But all rooms have been tastefully refurbished with period furniture, cosy bed spreads and upholstery in warm colours, lots of seating space, television and mini bar.

One floor of the new wing holds the family rooms, each decorated with antique reproductions. The wooden boarded floors and high ceilings recapture the colonial ambience. Tall windows look out into the landscaped garden and the tea and forest clad hills beyond. The thick drapes keep away the cold mountain air. For even colder nights, switch on the heater before you snuggle into the thick blankets and covers.

Each of the seven family rooms have a loft-like upper floor which holds a large double bed with a table and chairs. It's ideal for a family with young children.

Of course, being in Nuwara Eliya, St. Andrews has the advantage of offering visitors much more than the old world charm of the hotel. Walks through tea estates and the park for the soft hearted. The more adventurous can take a trek through the wilderness of Pedro or the many forested hills around the area. Waterfall hunting is another interesting way to spend time. Many of the country's most picturesque waterfalls are in close proximity to Nuwara Eliya. Drive up to Horton Plains, take time to savour the forests, lakes and streams along the way. Take a photograph at the Pattipola station (highest elevation railway station) and buy freshly processed cheese at the New Zealand farm at Ambewela. There is of course the golf course, said to be one of the best courses in Asia and pony rides round the lake for children.

Returning to St. Andrews hot tea awaits you- or coffee if you prefer. Mealtimes will see a carefully selected menu from choice meat cuts to fresh vegetables and fruits, freshly baked breads and buns and not to mention the spicy curry and sambol.

The bar and billiards room is in the oldest part of the building, dating some 110 years. The bar has wood panelled walls and church-pew like seats upholstered in green. If you are a pro, try the century-old but well preserved billiards table.

The dining room, also in the oldest section of the house, will soon be extended to accommodate around 120 people. A show kitchen, demonstrating the actual preparation of the food will flank the new dining area.

St. Andrews rooms are marketed locally at Rs. 3500 a double full board. An additional supplement of Rs.1800 is charged for the family room.

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