At 2,000 metres above sea level, the 19th century colonial hill station of Nuwara Eliya was a favourite retreat of the British, who were drawn by the climate, and to this day it retains a colonial ambiance with its golf course, gentlemen’s clubs and mock-Tudor buildings. One of the best ways to reach Nuwara Eliya is by train from Kandy: the first-class observation car gives stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations, waterfalls and dramatic mountain scenery.