Description
The Galle Face Hotel is an impressive old colonial building, which was established as a hotel in 1864. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the commercial city and also has wonderful views of the Indian Ocean.
The 82 rooms of the southern Regency Wing of the hotel have recently been refurbished and modern luxuries have been tastefully combined with the original old Victorian features. Suites include living and dining areas, and are equipped with jacuzzis, either in-room or on the balcony overlooking the ocean.
As well as a large swimming pool, beauty salon and fitness studio, the Regency Wing has a choice of two restaurants, one of which is right on the seafront and renowned for its seafood, and the other serving international cuisine. The Galle Face Hotel spa is set among lush tropical garden overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. There is also a museum and art gallery housing the Duke of Edinburgh's first ever car. Guests may use the facilities of both parts of the hotel.
There is plenty to do in the historic city of Colombo from shopping and dining to visiting cultural sites and museums. Colombo has a wonderfully eclectic mix of architecture that spans centuries from the many colonial buildings influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch and British to structures built in Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Indian and Contemporary architectural styles.
Accommodation
The Galle Face Hotel offers 82 Rooms in the Regency Wing and 82 Rooms in the Classic Wing. Rooms in the former have recently been refurbished and offer luxurious decor and amenities. Rooms have fabulous views of the Indian Ocean, the shopping arcade 'Piazza' or the Spa Garden.
Childcare
Children are welcome but there are no specific facilities.
Facilities
Facilities at the Galle Face Hotel include Colombo's largest salt water swimming pool, fitness studio, beauty salon, spa, art gallery, a museum, business centre and the Regency lounge. Dining options include the 'Sea Spray' restaurant serving seafood, the 'Verandah' restaurant famous for its high tea buffets, 'The 1864' restaurant and the 'Wine Lounge' which is the perfect place for pre-dinner drinks.
Activities
The hotel offer complimentary swimming where as the health club and excursions around the city to explore the its historic sites, museums and art galleries are charged additionally. Located 75 miles northeast of Colombo, you'll find the tranquil town of Kandy home to the sacred tooth of Buddha, a sacred relic of the Buddhist faith. From here you can venture into the hills to experience the idyllic tea plantations.
Services
Services at the hotel include a butler, room service, laundry and concierge.
When to travel
From May to August the Yala monsoon brings rain to the island’s southwestern half, while the dry season here lasts from December to March. There is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November when rain can occur in many parts of the island. Colombo and the low-lying coastal regions have an average temperature of 27°C.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Colombo, Sri Lanka
The Galle Face Hotel is in the heart of the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, situated on Galle Road right on the seafront.
How to get there
10-hour 45-minute direct flight to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. It takes 30-minutes to drive from the airport to Galle Face Hotel.