Fortress Room
Ocean Room
Beach Room
Ocean Loft with Plunge Pool
Fortress Residence
Beach Splash Room
*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
This charming and traditionally-styled hotel, which has recently been renovated, is a great choice for those wanting to indulge in some local culture as the historic sights of the UNESCO-listed city of Galle are just a short distance away. The unique combination of Moorish, Oriental and Dutch influenced architecture and the striking setting on a rocky headland overlooking the ocean is sure to impress you as soon as you arrive. The hotel also places great importance on their green initiatives, with a strong focus on both environmental and community activities. Manicured gardens play host to facilities including a spa, two swimming pools and three restaurants. All-day dining is available at the main restaurant Cardamom Café while seafood specialities are popular at fine-dining venue The Cinnamon Room. The produce at this hilltop restaurant is locally caught or sourced from nearby markets and beautifully flavoured using the island’s famous spices. For something a little more casual, head to Lorenzo’s Pizza Corner which is located near the pool. We love the resort’s signature dining options which include the ‘Among the Rocks' private barbecue and the Adam & Eve in-spa experience: a spa treatment followed by dinner. For pre-dinner drinks as the sun goes down and some post-dinner relaxation there’s the Coat of Arms Bar. The Luxury Rooms, which are located in both the hotel's main wing and its spa wing, feature a balcony or terrace with resort and sea views. For a special treat, choose to stay in one of the three unique Themed Suites which have either Chinese, Moroccan or colonial Dutch-inspired décor.
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.