Unforgettable Stay at Merchant Galle Fort in Sri Lanka

Summary

Overview of The Merchant Galle Fort
Culinary Delights
Prime Location
Exploring the Fort
Nearby Beaches
Relaxation and Unforgettable Memories

A stay at The Merchant Galle Fort, Sri Lanka

For an extended period, the allure of Sri Lanka had fascinated us from a distance. With golden beaches, swaying palms, and historic structures, it resembled scenes directly from a postcard. Therefore, after two long years of travel limitations due to the pandemic, we eagerly made our way to the airport once Sri Lanka reopened to tourists. It was time to transform this bucket list aspiration into a tangible experience.

Upon our arrival in Colombo, we spent several days exploring the city before craving the coastal breeze of the renowned Galle Fort. Although we had seen photographs and heard tales of this ancient Dutch fortress town, nothing could prepare us for its real-life magnificence, made even more special by our accommodations at The Merchant Galle Fort.

Upon arrival at The Merchant Galle Fort, we were warmly welcomed with authentic Sri Lankan hospitality, along with a fresh pot of tea. This is truly the essence of Ceylon! With only 14 rooms and one townhouse, The Merchant Galle Fort is an enchanting boutique hotel that prioritizes exceptional service. The building’s facade harkens back to 1710, when it was originally constructed by the Dutch, yet the interiors have been meticulously restored and equipped with modern luxury amenities.

Breakfast at The Merchant Galle Fort

Breakfast at The Merchant Galle Fort was a lavish experience and something we anticipated each morning after rising early to witness the sunrise. Included in our accommodation was a choice between a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast or a substantial English breakfast. Each morning, we would select one of each to share. It is challenging to determine a favorite; however, the sweetness of Sri Lankan fresh fruit was truly unmatched.

Prime Location

Regarding location, The Merchant Galle Fort is ideally situated. Nestled in the heart of the iconic Pedlar Street, one does not need to wander far to immerse oneself in Galle Fort’s celebrated shopping area and stunning architecture. As you stroll along the Fort’s cobbled streets, you will be transported through time, admiring the Dutch architecture that now accommodates gem shops, gelato parlors, cafés, and boutiques.

Exploring the Fort

Just a few minutes’ walk from The Merchant Galle Fort, you will arrive at the outer fortifications. Along the seafront, you will encounter the Galle Fort Lighthouse, and towards the entrance stands the clock tower. It is advisable to venture out early to avoid the crowds from Unawatuna. Galle Fort has a tranquil ambiance, so if you wish to capture some photographs without interruption, the earlier you go, the better. As sunset approaches, the fortifications, particularly the lighthouse, become bustling with visitors.

Nearby Beaches

After our exploration of the fort, we returned to The Merchant Galle Fort for some well-deserved relaxation. A popular dining locale at sunset, during the day, The Merchant’s outdoor courtyard serves as an ideal spot to find a quaint corner and relish a refreshing beverage. Moreover, the high-speed WiFi renders it the ultimate location for a working holiday.

If you wish to explore beyond the fortifications, numerous nearby beaches await for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. We utilized a tuk-tuk one morning and made the brief 15-minute journey to Jungle Beach, a stunning cove boasting turquoise waters enveloped by verdant tropical foliage. Ensure you bring your snorkel gear, as this location offers some of the calmest waters along the west coast. Later, we journeyed a bit further down the coastline to Unawatuna Beach, a vibrant tourist destination and an excellent location to witness the sunset near the water. This day trip from Galle Fort is certainly a must-do!

Relaxation and Unforgettable Memories

We spent our afternoons enjoying the tranquility and sounds of Sri Lanka from our private balcony, where a peacock even put on a display atop a neighboring roof! Our experience at The Merchant Galle Fort was extraordinary, outstripping our expectations, making it a notable entry on our travel list.