Tea Experience Tour

OVERVIEW

Learn how traditional Ceylon teas are grown, hand-harvested and processed at a family-owned plantation and then enjoy a cup of hot tea purported to have healing properties. After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a meandering drive inland, where you will notice the vegetation becoming denser as you approach the area surrounding Akuressa. Here you will find the Galaboda Tea Factory, a family-owned business established in 1935. The Tsara brand teas grown on the lowland estate’s 39 acres are certified organic. The conditions are ideal for growing several types of tea, including Ceylon black tea, green tea that is often ingested for medicinal purposes, and teas flavored with jasmine and ginger. As you will discover by touring the plantation, the tea leaves are usually plucked by hand, but only the tender new growth, which contains the highest amounts of antioxidants. The leaves are then “withered” to remove moisture, rolled to release natural oils, and then heated to ensure consistency in appearance, flavor and quality. The result is an exceptionally flavorful, aromatic tea said to stimulate mental clarity, increase circulation and aid digestion. You will then have the chance to savor a cup of Ceylon tea and a slice of freshly made cheesecake in the wonderfully serene T-Lounge at the Fortress Resort and Spa. A selection of more than 30 premium teas will be available, including White Tip Tea, a type thought to boost immunity and lower cholesterol. Afterwards, you will return to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an insider’s view of organic tea processing at a family-owned plantation.
• Discover why the tea processed here is more beneficial than conventional teas.
• Savor a cup of tea said to stimulate mental clarity and increase circulation.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.