Amangalla

The stately grande dame of Galle Fort, a World Heritage Site on Sri Lanka’s south coast, Amangalla boasts all the period charm of a bygone era. Combining the Sanskrit-derived word for ‘peace’ with galla, Sinhalese for the town of Galle, the hotel stands at the junction of Church and Middle Streets with commanding views of the Fort’s ramparts.

With its chandeliers and soaring fin de siècle ceilings, being welcomed into Amangalla’s Zaal, or Great Hall, is like stepping into the past. It houses the elegant Dining Room at one end and a cocktail station at the other, with a welcoming lounge area in between – ideal for enjoying a cup of Ceylon tea or an evening cocktail accompanied by live music. Upstairs, the Sunset Balcony is a picturesque residents-only spot for sundowners with views across Galle and the Indian Ocean.

An intimate setting with a colonial feel, the Dining Room serves Sri Lankan and Western cuisines. Guests can also dine on the Veranda, which faces the tree-lined street and enjoy alfresco breakfasts at the Garden Terrace with views of the hotel’s 21-metre swimming pool.

A wander through Amangalla's 200-year-old gardens reveals the hotel’s tranquil Aman Spa. Massage therapies drawing on Ayurvedic healing traditions can be enjoyed in five softly lit treatment rooms while the two Hydrotherapy Suites each feature a warm massage pool, sauna, steam room and cold-water therapy pool. There is also a Barbershop, a Nail Salon and a yoga pavilion in the gardens.

Another peaceful retreat is the Library which houses an extensive range of reference books, novels and games. It also features an eclectic collection of memorabilia that offers insight into the history of the hotel, the Fort and the town of Galle.

Amangalla offers accommodation in 28 Bedrooms, Chambers and Suites and the two-storey Garden House situated in the lush gardens near the swimming pool.