Amangalla

Amangalla sits on the peninsula of Galle, on the south coast of Sri Lanka.

After wandering the sultry streets of Galle, the rooms at Amangalla offer a cool and tranquil sanctuary, with views from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fort walls (of which the hotel is a part) over the 200-year-old frangipani-fragranced gardens and the historic landmarks of the city.

Inside, the colonial heritage is evoked in style, with four-poster beds, planter's chairs, teak floorboards and shuttered windows onto a balcony or porch. For those seeking more space, there’s also the two-storey Garden House, nestled in the gardens, which has a wraparound balcony.

Dining is perhaps the most evocative experience at Amangalla, with food served in the great hall against an elegant backdrop of crisp white linen and antique silverware. The delicious cuisine features fresh produce from the local markets - you can even accompany the chef on a shopping trip and learn how to make Sri Lankan specialities in the kitchen.

Revive yourself with traditional afternoon tea and cocktails on the veranda, overlooking the terracotta rooftops, while you can also enjoy light lunches by the pool, followed by a choice of Sri Lankan curries and international cuisine in the evenings.

As well as a pool to cool off in, surrounded by palm tree-shaded sunloungers to relax on, the gorgeous spa offers massages, scrubs, hot and cold plunge pools, steam rooms and saunas, as well as a yoga pavilion which is in use every morning. 

We highly recommend setting out from Amangalla with a local guide, and strolling through the winding streets to discover the eclectic past of Galle (which has seen many different occupations, including the Persians, Arabs, Chinese, Malays, South Indians, Portuguese, Dutch and English). Along the way, you’ll pass brightly-painted bullock carts, spice warehouses and artisan stalls, before sitting back with the local tipple, arrack, and watching either a game of cricket or kite flying in the main square.

You should also visit Ambalangoda, just up the coast, which is the heart of Sri Lanka's mask-making tradition. Locals have been making wooden-carved masks here for generations. Representing evil spirits, they are used in performances of the Yakkun Natima, or devil dances. 

Set out on a whale-watching tour from nearby Mirissa Harbour, and at sunset, join the locals in the passegiata, an evening stroll along the ramparts.