An all-time favourite, Ceylon beer has appealed to palates of not just Sri Lankans but Europeans as well. One of the most popular exports of the country, Ceylon beer dates back to the 1800s and it was in the breathtaking city of Nuwara Eliya, where the Ceylon Breweries was first set up.
With sparkling lakes and cascading waterfalls, surrounded by acres of tea plantations, the foreign Scottish population eagerly made this city their home in the 1800’s. The only thing they missed in this idyllic haven was some good beer to warm up those chilly evenings! Hence Sir Samuel Backer stepped forward and on the foothills of ‘Lovers Leap’, set up the country’s pioneering breweries. Little did Backer fathom the extent to which his humble breweries would expand to.
The breweries have grown and gone on to produce excellent brands like ‘Carlsberg’ and ‘Lion’. Nothing but the best of ingredients are used; a spring above the breweries supply pure crystal clear water, and the malt and hops are imported into the country from the finest native destinations. Ceylon Breweries soon became popular for excellent quality that has been savoured by a number of countries in the international world.
Today the breweries still stand at the foothill of ‘Lovers Leap’. As it has been in operation since 1884, its historical value combined with the epic scenery that surrounds it makes this place a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. In fact the city of Nuwara Eliya itself is a must visit destination in the country. Blessed with beautiful and stunning landscapes, lush green tea plantations, scenic gardens and so much more, the city stands as one of the most relaxing and picturesque destinations in the island. It also has an almost English feel with colonial type houses and pleasant chilly weather.
To truly savour this ‘Garden of Eden’, travellers should look to find cosy and comfortable Nuwara Eliya accommodation which lets one enjoy the surrounding beauty. Giving guests a chance to be swept away into delightful colonial times, Jetwing Warwick Gardens offers luxurious accommodation where one can unwind and relax. A restored colonial mansion surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, it stands out as one of the finest of Sri Lanka hotels.