Great — here are top boutique / romantic picks in and immediately around Ella (short notes on what makes each good for couples, typical price band, and a source so you can check availability & photos):

1. 98 Acres Resort & Spa — hill‑country chalets cantilevered into a tea estate; excellent privacy, dramatic Ella Gap views and an on‑site spa (very romantic for sunsets). Price: roughly $180–$400+ / night depending on chalet type & season. (resort98acres.com)

2. EKHO Ella — small boutique hotel in town with mountain/Ella Gap views; some junior suites have private jacuzzis and easy access to walks (good balance of comfort + location). Price: roughly $80–$180 / night. (ekhohotels.com)

3. Ravana Heights — intimate, family‑run boutique hotel on the Ella pass with private balconies overlooking Ella Rock and the Gap; popular for couples who want great views and a short walk into town. Price: roughly $60–$170 / night. (ravanaheights.com)

4. Walaa Kulu (private villa) — a luxe private villa with heated infinity pool and sweeping 270° hill‑country views; ideal if you want total privacy, private chef options and a romantic splurge. Price: villa rentals start substantially higher (often hundreds–thousands USD per night depending on season). (walaakulu.com)

5. Zion View Ella / Zion View Green Retreat — hill‑top boutique retreat with infinity pool and yoga/spa options; excellent panoramas for sunrise/sunset and highly rated by couples. Price: roughly $50–$140 / night. (wanderlog.com)

6. Green Village Ella — boutique property with terrace & mountain views, strong guest ratings for location and a relaxed, private atmosphere (great for couples wanting quiet). Price: roughly $40–$120 / night. (booking.com)

7. Morning Dew Boutique Hotel — stylish small hotel with rooftop pool and spa facilities; good mix of comfort, views and easy access to nearby hikes. Price: roughly $50–$140 / night. (booking.com)

8. Country Homes — popular boutique guesthouse close to the station with private balconies, very highly rated breakfasts and jacuzzi options — good for couples who want convenience plus comfort. Price: roughly $40–$120 / night. (booking.com)

9. Planter’s Bungalow (Ella Planters Bungalow) — colonial bungalow on a tea garden with private terraces, quiet gardens and a pool; very romantic if you like historic/plantation settings. Price: roughly $40–$150 / night. (plantersbungalow.com)

10. Ella Jungle Resort / Ravana Valley experiences — for adventurous couples who want a nature/jungle vibe (river‑side bungalows, trails, lots of outdoor activities). Price: roughly $40–$120 / night. (ellajungleresort.lk)

Quick tips for choosing

• If privacy & views are your priority, pick 98 Acres, Walaa Kulu or Zion View. (resort98acres.com)
• If you want easy access to town, cafes and the train, choose EKHO Ella, Country Homes or Morning Dew. (ekhohotels.com)
• Book early for high season (Dec–Mar and school holidays) and check whether romance packages (private dinners, spa treatments) are available on the hotel page. (anasawellnessresort.com)

Would you like these narrowed to a budget or style (e.g., private‑villa splurge vs. cozy boutique inn), or would you like me to check real‑time availability/prices for specific dates?