By Elishya Perera
Ella, Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_Nestled in the southern edge of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, 98 Acres Resort & Spa captivates you with the natural splendour of the island nation. Located off the beaten track, the four-star retreat is the perfect escape to unwind and revel in the region’s cool climate, far from the tropical weather across the country’s coastline. In a major win for Sri Lanka’s struggling tourism industry, 98 Acres Resort & Spa was recognised as the Most Luxurious Mountain Resort in Asia, at the 16th World Luxury Hotel Awards 2022, held recently in Antalya, Turkey.
The prestigious award was presented to the resort in recognition of its unparalleled delivery of service, luxury and presentation. The World Luxury Hotel Awards are awarded to luxury hotels across 99 categories. Hotels and hospitality groups can either nominate themselves, or be nominated by guests, tour operators and travel agents. The awards are voted for by the public, and the nominees compete on a global, continent, regional and country basis.
98 Acres Resort & Spa is a part of the UHE Group, the umbrella company to several world renowned brands. Expressing his delight over the resort’s recent victory, U.H.E. Group’s Group Director of Marketing, Eranda Aberathna, said: “We are honoured and humbled to be awarded as the number one Luxury Mountain Resort in Asia. When 98 Acres was established in 2012, we had a vision for not only the brand and offering but also one that truly made a worthwhile impact on Sri Lanka’s travel and tourism industry.”
Luxury meets eco-friendly at the resort’s 32 chalets which effortlessly blend well with nature. Discarded railway sleepers make up the decks and walls of the resort. The chalets are adorned with granite floors, while the roofs are made up of Illuk straws. The resort also offers a unique dining experience, with Restaurant 98 located on a small hill, captivating guests with a breathtaking view and its mouthwatering Sri Lankan and western cuisine.
By securing the award for Asia’s Most Luxurious Mountain Resort, 98 Acres Resort & Spa shines a spotlight on the scenic small town of Ella, and its lush tea plantations, beautiful mountains and epic waterfalls. The resort is few miles away from the Insta-famous Nine Arches Bridge, a piece of beautiful architecture surrounded by lush green tea fields. The famous Little Adam’s peak, Ravana Falls and the Ella rock are among the other top tourist attractions you may visit during your stay at 98 Acres Resort & Spa. For adrenaline junkies and those desiring adventure, Flying Ravana is highly recommended. It is Sri Lanka’s first ever zip-line offering a bird’s-eye view of the breathtaking views of the beautiful hillcountry.
This is not the first time 98 Acres Resort & Spa was recognized as a top luxury hotel by the World Luxury Hotel Awards. Back in 2015, the resort secured the award for the best Luxury Mountain Resort in the world.
