Woman plucking tea in Darjeeling
A workmate pointed out that I used the word heaven three times in one sentence, as I was describing my trip to Darjeeling, India and particularly Glenburn Tea Estate. Beautiful tea fields, majestic mountains, ethereal mists, scrumptious meals, plenty of exercise and time for day dreaming, good friends (old and new), and of course -- Darjeeling tea!
On the way to Glenburn, we stopped for a picnic next to a tea field.
The fogged-in field was other-worldly!
The fogged-in field was other-worldly!
The path to Glenburn is, quite literally, over the river and through the woods and up a mountain and through the tea fields. It's a winding, and towards the end, very bumpy journey. Along the way, you'll stop for a picnic in a beautiful scenic area. (If you're prone to motion sickness, as I am, take meds AND sit in the front seat!) The 3-4 hour journey is worth every minute. When you arrive, you'll be treated to a welcoming glass of lemonade and the kindness of the hosts and staff.
Our first day there, we decided to relax and do a little exploring. I requested a cup of tea and what arrived was Afternoon Tea with fried tea leaves, cake and cookies!
One of the best things about Glenburn is bed tea!
Your wake-up call is a tray of tea, cookies and splendid views.
I had been to Glenburn once before and long wanted to return. This trip in early October was one of the most lovely experiences of 2019. Special thanks to my traveling companion AM, and the the staff of Glenburn! Bertie, Audrey, Rudolph and team - you made us feel so welcome!
Me, taking a walk in the tea fields
Imagine plucking for hours on slopes like this!
I have so much gratitude to the people who make our cups of Darjeeling tea possible.
The porch, where I spent many happy moments writing in my journal (and drinking tea)
We spent a morning in the factory, learning how the tea is processed and sampling the
Glenburn lineup
Glenburn lineup
Dinner is a leisurely, multi-course event but always finished with chocolate and tea.
Somehow, I still slept soundly!
Bertie and Audrey (along with Rudolph, not shown) -- hosts extraordinaire!
It's heaven for me!
