THE GALWAY FOREST LODGE CERTAINLY LIVES UP TO ITS NAME -

offering some fantastic scenes of the Galway Natural Forest Reserve, with over 200 varieties of birds in the neighbourhood. Treks through the lush natural forest, with its multitudinous colours and variety, are a special treat offered by the hotel. The trees, incredibly tall, seem to touch the low-lying clouds as they pass by.

The hotel, a modern one, which has been in operation since mid 1998, is tastefully decorated in shades of forest green and brown, harmonizing with the scene just outside. The hotel is cozy, tastefully decorated, and comfortable. The restaurant ('Dukes') with its commanding view of the forest, serves both eastern and western cuisine with the occasional theme night. Garden fresh vegetables from this part of the country are always a must and a generous serving at all meals can be expected.

Both lobby and lounge bar offer comfort and a drink, but should you like a little bit of privacy you could also go up one floor to the 'Fox and Hounds', a pub offering a wide variety of cocktails of both local and foreign liquor.

Should you fancy a bit of shooting - there is an old style billiards room. Care for a bit of exercise? There is a well laid out jogging track that also takes in a look at the tea gardens nearby, or you could try your hand at horse riding, with both thoroughbreds and ponies supplied by a local stable nearby.

All rooms are standard double or triple, come carpeted, with TV, mini bar (on request), piped music and telephone (dialing through operator), and individual heaters.

All public areas are centrally temperature-controlled. A small souvenir shop offers batiks and wood figurines. An optional trip through the forest into Nuwara Eliya town can be arranged.