Ella has more guesthouses than you’d believe for such a small village, and that’s both good and bad news. There’s something for every budget, but the views, noise levels and walking distances vary hugely. We learnt that after booking a “short stroll from town” homestay that turned out to be a steep 20-minute hike up a muddy lane.
Here’s our honest guide to the best places to stay in Ella for Australian travellers, so you can pick the right base for your trip. For more about the area, see our Ella travel guide.
Where to stay in Ella: the main areas
- Ella town centre: best for convenience, cafés and nightlife; can be noisy.
- Ella Gap and the Passara Road: best for views over the valley and quiet nights.
- Near Nine Arch Bridge and Kital Ella: best for walkers who want trails on the doorstep.
- Outer Ella and the Wellawaya Road: best for resorts, pools and families.
Ella town centre
If you want to roll out of bed and into a café, stay central. You can walk to restaurants and the station, and tuk-tuks are always nearby. Rooms facing the main road can be noisy at night, so ask for a quieter side.
Ella Gap and hillside views
Many boutique guesthouses and small hotels cling to the hillsides with balconies looking straight through Ella Gap. Waking up to mist rolling through the valley is magic. Expect stairs and steep access roads.
Near Nine Arch Bridge
Staying near the bridge puts you close to trails and tea plantations, and you can see the trains without the crowds by heading out early. It’s quieter, but you’ll need a tuk-tuk into town at night.
Resorts and hotels outside town
On the edge of Ella you’ll find larger hotels with pools, spas and restaurants, such as 98 Acres Resort set among tea gardens. They’re ideal for families and couples who want a bit of luxury after a day of hiking.
Our tip: always check the hotel’s location on a map and read reviews about the walk up. “Five minutes from town” in Ella often means five minutes straight uphill.
Booking tips for Ella accommodation
- Book ahead from December to April, when Ella is at its busiest.
- Check for hot water and blankets. Nights get cool in the hills.
- Ask about pick-ups from Ella station if you’re arriving by train with luggage.
- Look for a view. In Ella, a balcony overlooking the valley is worth paying a little extra for.
How many nights should you stay?
Two to three nights gives you time for the main hikes and sights. See our list of things to do in Ella to plan your days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Ella?
For first-timers, the town centre is most convenient. For views and peace, choose a guesthouse on the hills around Ella Gap.
Are there family-friendly hotels in Ella?
Yes. Resorts on the outskirts offer pools and larger rooms, which suit families better than small guesthouses.
Is Ella expensive?
Ella has options for every budget, from simple homestays to luxury resorts, and generally offers good value compared with Australian prices.
Need help choosing where to stay?
Our Melbourne team can suggest Ella accommodation to suit your style. Send us your dates, or read our Ella Rock hike guide before you go.
