Experience the unparalleled grandeur of an afternoon tea at the iconic Grand Hotel. Indulge in the finest Ceylon tea and delectable treats, all while surrounded by ornate chandeliers and plush furnishings. But the adventure doesn’t end there – complete your journey with a scenic train ride to Ella, where you’ll be captivated by Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes. Embark on an unforgettable day of luxury and exploration, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.
Key Points
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The Grand Hotel in Sri Lanka offers a world-famous Royal Afternoon Tea experience with freshly brewed Ceylon tea, sandwiches, cakes, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
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Guests can enjoy the luxurious ambiance of the Grand Hotel, known for hosting notable figures and providing Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, before taking a train to Ella.
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The hotel is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice, with a flexible cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option.
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The afternoon tea features tea varieties sourced from local gardens in Nuwara Eliya, offering a range of bright, floral, robust, and complex flavors.
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Guests can book a package that includes the Royal Afternoon Tea experience at the Grand Hotel and a train ticket to the picturesque town of Ella, allowing them to enjoy both the luxury and the scenic beauty of Sri Lanka.
Iconic Venue: The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is an iconic venue known for hosting a variety of notable guests, including celebrities and royalty.
Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Thomas Lipton, Carrie Fisher, and Roger Moore have all graced its halls.
This luxurious setting provides the perfect backdrop for the Royal Afternoon Tea experience, offering Instagram-ready photo opportunities and the chance to relax by the fireplaces.
The hotel’s rich history and prestigious reputation make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly memorable and exclusive afternoon tea experience in Sri Lanka.
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Luxury and Ambiance
Stepping inside the Grand Hotel, guests are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and grandeur. From the ornate chandeliers to the plush furnishings, every detail exudes elegance. Guests can capture Instagram-worthy moments in the lavish surroundings, posing by the crackling fireplaces or sinking into the cozy armchairs. The experience offers a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous who have graced these halls, including royalty and beloved celebrities. This is a setting where one can truly feel transported to a bygone era of refined sophistication and timeless charm.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Architecture | Ornate and opulent |
| Decor | Plush furnishings, crackling fireplaces |
| Ambiance | Refined sophistication, timeless charm |
| Clientele | Royalty, celebrities, the elite |
Afternoon Tea Experience
Guests are treated to a world-famous afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel, featuring a delectable selection of sandwiches, cakes, and sweet and savory treats.
Sourced from local tea gardens in Nuwara Eliya, the freshly brewed Ceylon tea pairs perfectly with the experience. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine adds a touch of elegance.
With Instagram-worthy moments and the opportunity to relax by the fireplaces, the Royal Afternoon Tea is a truly luxurious affair.
A truly luxurious affair, the Royal Afternoon Tea offers Instagram-worthy moments and the chance to relax by the fireplaces.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, ensuring everyone can indulge in this quintessential Sri Lankan experience.
Freshly Brewed Ceylon Tea
Freshly brewed Ceylon tea sourced from local tea gardens in Nuwara Eliya forms the centerpiece of the Royal Afternoon Tea experience. The tea is expertly prepared, offering a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the delicate selection of sandwiches, cakes, and sweet and savory treats.
| Tea Origin | Variety | Harvest Season | Tasting Notes |
| — | — | — | — |
| Nuwara Eliya | Ceylon | Spring | Bright, floral, and slightly sweet |
| Dimbula | Ceylon | Summer | Robust, full-bodied, and smooth |
| Uva | Ceylon | Autumn | Complex, slightly spicy, and aromatic |
The complimentary glass of sparkling wine adds a touch of elegance, creating a truly luxurious and memorable tea experience at the iconic Grand Hotel.
More Great Tours NearbyTrain Journey to Ella
After enjoying the lavish Royal Afternoon Tea, guests can head to the Nanuoya train station to embark on a scenic one-way train journey to Ella.
The train ticket is included in the package, with first or second-class availability based on what’s available. The train ride offers breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s lush tea plantations and rolling hills.
However, additional food and drinks during the train journey aren’t included. No specific seating or time preferences can be requested for the train portion of the experience.
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Accessibility and Dietary Accommodations
The Royal Afternoon Tea experience at the Grand Hotel is wheelchair accessible, allowing all guests to indulge in the lavish offerings. For those with dietary requirements, the hotel is happy to accommodate. Simply notify them in advance of any special needs, such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free preferences.
| Dietary Requests | Notification Needed |
| —————- | ——————- |
| Vegan | At time of booking |
| Vegetarian | At time of booking |
| Gluten-free | At time of booking |
| Nut allergy | At time of booking |
| Lactose-free | At time of booking |
Cancellation Policy and Payment Options
Guests can take advantage of the experience’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for full refunds up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled event. This provides peace of mind and flexibility for travelers should plans change.
To secure the experience, guests can opt for the reserve now and pay later option, allowing them to book in advance without an upfront payment. This convenient payment method makes it easier to plan the entire trip, including the train journey to Ella.
With these flexible booking and cancellation terms, guests can confidently reserve the Royal Afternoon Tea at the Grand Hotel.
Inclusions and Exclusions
While the Royal Afternoon Tea experience at the Grand Hotel includes a world-class tea service and a one-way train ticket to Ella, there are a few key exclusions guests should be aware of.
The tea service features a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and sweet and savory treats, along with freshly brewed Ceylon tea and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
However, additional food and drinks during the train journey aren’t included. Guests should also note that seating and time preferences for the train aren’t available.
The package does include pick-up and drop-off to and from the Grand Hotel.
Common Questions
Can the Tea Service Be Customized for Larger Groups?
The Grand Hotel’s afternoon tea service can be customized for larger groups, with advance notice. They accommodate special dietary needs and offer a range of seating options to ensure a memorable experience for parties of all sizes.
Are Any Special Services or Amenities Available for Solo Travelers?
Solo travelers can request special services like an individual table, personalized tea pairing recommendations, and assistance with luggage. The Grand Hotel provides a concierge to help solo guests make the most of their experience.
What Is the Recommended Dress Code for the Afternoon Tea?
The recommended dress code for the afternoon tea is smart casual. Guests are expected to wear neat, tidy, and presentable attire, but no formal wear is required. Comfort and practicality are encouraged for the overall experience.
How Much Time Is Allotted for the Train Journey to Ella?
The train journey to Ella is not assigned a specific time allotment. The ticket provides one-way transportation from Nanuoya to Ella, with the duration of the journey depending on the schedule and availability of the train services.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Beyond the Package Price?
Beyond the package price, the only additional costs are for any extra food and drinks during the train journey. There are no other fees or expenses included in the Royal Afternoon Tea and train ticket to Ella.
The Sum Up
The Royal Afternoon Tea at the Grand Hotel promises an unforgettable experience, blending luxury and tradition. Savor exquisite Ceylon tea and delectable treats in a stunning setting, then embark on a scenic train journey to the breathtaking landscapes of Ella. This perfect day of indulgence and exploration offers an unparalleled glimpse into Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
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