A vibrant city that embraces its ancient and colonial past, Galle is made famous by its 17th century Dutch fort. The once sleepy Galle Fort is now a vibrant and bustling area with a distinctively Mediterranean feel to it and is abuzz with activity. You can spend a full day exploring its narrow streets and laneways, bustling with jewellery shops, numerous cafes, restaurants and luxurious villas. The Galle Fort Mosque, the Lighthouse, the Anglican and Dutch-reformed Churches and the Maritime Museum are some of its must-see sites. Between the months of November to April, you have the opportunity to view the mammoth blue whale at Mirissa. The tropical rainforests at Hiyare and Kanneliya, close to Galle, provide opportunities for nature walks where you can see some of the island’s endemic flora and fauna. The golden sandy beaches along the southern coast, and a number of luxurious retreats makes Galle a very popular destination for beach goers.
Proudly standing in the Fort, the magnificent Galle Fort Hotel, a restored Dutch villa, is now an impressive iconic mansion that previously served as various different businesses such as a bakery, post office, general merchants abode and, at one time, as RAF barracks. Today this historic boutique hotel features 12 stunning suites that are decorated in rich character, eclectic furnishings and sumptuous beauty. Charming accommodation includes Garden Rooms, offering access to frangipani scented courtyards and secret miniature parterre gardens; and chic and sophisticated Loft Suites boasting a six metre atrium opening onto a sunny inner courtyard. The Porcelain Suite pays homage to 19th century blue and white porcelain plates and stunning Dutch shuttered windows, while the Admiral Cheng Ho Suite is a breath-taking sanctuary, decorated with Chinese and South-East Asian fittings, celebrating the Admiral’s visit to Galle in 1406.
Enjoy sublime cuisine and dine on fresh seafood including delicious lobster and jumbo prawns. The hotel’s enticing menu is inspired by the Spice Route and every plate is fragrantly aromatic and beautifully presented. Lounge at the pool on balmy days, and soak up the sun with chilled cocktails and a great book. Meander around the pretty garden, and hop on a bicycle and leisurely cycle around the fascinating area. Visit the beach for cool dips in the ocean, and lovely long strolls along the shore. Explore the magnificent monuments and buildings in the Fort, including the Dutch Reformed Church and the Clock Tower.
What we love about the Galle Fort Hotel
- Relax at the pool and sip on chilled colourful cocktails and meander around the charming garden
- Enjoy a drink at the beautiful bar, chat to fellow travellers, and plan your exciting days in exquisite surrounds
- Dine on sublime culinary fare spanning the traditions of Europe to the delectably fragranced spices of the East
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