Galle Face Hotel
Colombo
The Galle Face is probably the most famous hotel in Sri Lanka. That doesn’t necessarily make it the best, of course, but there’s something intoxicating about staying somewhere that so vividly evokes Colombo’s history. This seasoned property has perfected its service and style over the last 150 years. The busy lobby is always a hive of activity, with hotel guests and Colombo’s great and good being shown to their rooms or to one of the fine restaurants.
Old-fashioned, and paying homage to a bygone era, the Galle Face is a trove of artefacts, paintings and sympathetically-updated rooms that overlook the sea or city. We particularly recommend the Landmark room for wonderful views over the promenade. The expansive swimming pool facing the sea is the perfect place to relax and reflect on your trip prior to a long flight home. There may be plusher options in Colombo, but the Galle Face still draws us in with its unique charm.
Location
In a prime spot on the seaside promenade, with the Indian Ocean crashing against the sea walls, and beside the famous Galle Face Green.
A little more detail
Wide choice of restaurants
Saltwater swimming pool
Balinese spa
1930s royal car in its own museum
From a client…
The Galle Face was just as interesting and comfortable as we’d hoped. Thank you for recommending it.
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Why we love it
Discover what to expect from staying at Galle Face Hotel
Nostalgic elegance
It’s wonderful to arrive in Colombo after several days exploring the countryside and coastal areas of Sri Lanka. While Sri Lanka’s rural side is stunning, Colombo brings out the city lover in us all. The Galle Face is iconic, and as soon as you pull up outside the entrance the grand pillars, white gloved doorman and expensive cars of Colombo’s elite give the impression that you are somewhere interesting. A blast of welcome cool air fills the lobby, and the original features create an atmosphere that it’s impossible not to revel in.
What can you do there?
Aside from immersing yourself in the hotel’s 1930s vibe, or imagining sipping whisky with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in the Traveller’s Bar, this hotel’s key draw is its central location, which gives guests the freedom to explore Colombo at ease. Spend your days wandering through the city’s historic sights, and enjoy weekend evenings wandering on Galle Face Green, watching kite flyers and tasting tempting street food, before retiring to the comfort of your suite just a few steps away.
