Jetwing Lighthouse: Pool, children’s pool, spa*, gym, squash court, boutiques*, Wi-Fi; Jetwing Lighthouse Club: Pool, Wi-Fi
*Denotes local charge
Close to the fortified city of Galle, this beachfront hotel echoes the city’s charming architecture with immense gates, white-washed walls and an extensive courtyard. This is the focal point of the resort, with many people enjoying the cooler air and pretty gardens located within. Here you’ll also find the spa, known for its range of Ayurvedic treatments and water therapies. There are two restaurants to choose from – White, the all-day venue specialising in innovative Sri Lankan cuisine and international dishes, and Salty Snapper which serves seafood al fresco in the resort’s garden. For a special occasion, Duo is a romantic fine dining venue which has walls that are lined with floor-to-ceiling wine racks. There are also two lounges, one serving a variety of local teas and the other serving cocktails, including some that are infused with tea. Rooms are spacious and modern and some even come with a private plunge pool; as a Kuoni guest, you’ll get a guaranteed upgrade to the next room type if you travel from April to July and or September to October. Fortress Rooms have an enclosed terrace or balcony with a view over a walled area. We highly recommend upgrading to an Ocean Room or a Beach Room for great views. Beach Rooms are on the ground floor with direct access to the pool and beach area. The Beach Splash Rooms are located on the ground floor and feature an indoor plunge pool which overlooks the resort’s gardens and beach.
Fort Bazaar
4.5
There are hotels with a rich history. And then there is Fort Bazaar – part of history. This enchanting bolthole sits pretty on a narrow cobbled street, among the imposing ramparts and colonial-era buildings of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. It took 11 years to restore the former merchant’s mansion – and it paid off. A huddle of whitewashed buildings is arranged around an open-air central courtyard, scented by a riot of frangipani flowers and illuminated by glowing Moorish lamps after dark – a scattering of cushion-topped chairs are heavenly chill-out spots. While the architecture and interiors nod to its colonial past, a contemporary twist updates its 17th-Century heritage – think hand-woven Sri Lankan fabrics and lots of pale wood. Just 18 rooms create an intimate vibe; the 15 Bazaar and Banyan Rooms are calming cocoons with pared-back, Scandi-style interiors; the latter with the added perk of a private balcony or terrace. For a slice of luxury, plump for one of the three Upper Suites – sleek dens with oodles of space and fort views, along with original features; all wood beams and pitched ceilings. An inviting restaurant sees locals and guests mingling over plates of fish tagine or black pork curry, against the comforting hum of the streets beyond the wide-open doors.
The Fortress Resort & Spa
