The Jungle Luxe Retreat: abandoned in war, reclaimed by nature, and now, gorgeously restored. Luxury is about living in a way where you appreciate things – like time, and the silence of the mountain jungle encircling this hotel estate. Centred on a 20-acre organic spice plantation, the beautifully renovated old Walawwa hotel is close to many of the island’s great attractions. Its walls are decorated with European and Asian art; its room fitted with restored Colonial furniture; its healthy menus inspired by street food as much as fine dining, using local ingredients, many from its own gardens. Bird song follows your every step. Float in an infinity pool; spot monkeys, deer, porcupine, mongoose, civet, and wild boar; tap rubber; enjoy yoga, massage; pluck tea, cloves, pepper, coffee; go birding for eagles, owls, hornbills, parrots, barbets, babblers, or bulbuls; peel cinnamon; lose yourself in a large library; take jungle walks; harvest cardamom, turmeric, ginger; pet mini schnauzers; fertilize vanilla; enjoy gardens of orchids, heliconia, mango, coconut, palms, frangipani, jak and teak. Above all, come – and find peace.