Super chic and very private, Amangalla is the elegant grand dame of travel to Sri Lanka. It’s the best city-based property anywhere in Sri Lanka and it’s completely serene, revealing the charms of an otherwise forgotten era.
Stay at Amangalla
Amangalla feels like a time capsule, wrapped within the walls of 17th-century Galle fort. Jackwood floors, rattan armchairs, cream-coloured shutters and four-poster beds. 20 years ago, Aman took an old Dutch garrison and transformed it into something remarkably elegant. Aesthetically it’s rooted in the past, yet it doesn’t feel old and the facilities are for a demanding 21st-century traveller.
Location
Peerless for an urban stay in Sri Lanka. Inside Galle fort, on a peninsula that’s packed with the city’s main historic sites - your private butler will take you on a walking tour if you wish. Galle is around two hours south of Colombo by road and is one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive heritage cities.
Rooms
The colonial style isn’t necessarily to everyone’s tastes, but it’s been achieved magnificently throughout the hotel and all its 28 accommodations. Suites are on the upper floors and provide lovely views through the curved, wooden windows. Freestanding tubs dominate the quintessentially grand bathrooms. Some may prefer one of the three Chambers rooms, which are smaller but open out onto the hotel’s gardens.
Who is it for
Mostly a place for couples who want to include an historic city as part of their multi-stop Sri Lanka itinerary. Families are certainly welcome too, although the vibe is grown up and other destinations are more appealing for kids.
Facilities & activities
Afternoon tea is very special here and the gastronomy delivers a good mix of local and western dishes. The spa is the best in Sri Lanka, with exclusive-use hydrotherapy suites, a nice pool, yoga pavilion, sauna and more (although note there’s no gym). Service is less formal than you’d expect and that’s a good thing, with a very convivial atmosphere that will encourage you to fully immerse yourself in this time capsule to a country’s past.
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