In the newly refurbished southern wing of Colombo’s historic Galle Face Hotel, guests can enjoy superior levels of comfort whilst revelling in the elegant and sophisticated ambience of a bygone era. While every suite has been lavishly decorated and the public areas elegantly and contemporarily designed the hotel still evokes a colonial feel reminiscent of its Victorian birth where high ceilings, polished wood flooring, stately corridors and grand teak stairways predominate. Its position at the foot of the Galle Face Green’s verdant promenade, beside the swaying surf of the Indian Ocean and close to all of the city’s main attractions have given it an unrivalled location in the capital since its establishment in 1864.

Guestrooms are spacious and luxuriously appointed with contemporary furnishings, majestic en-suite bathrooms and all the mod cons to ensure that you benefit from plenty of tranquillity and comfort for the perfect night’s sleep. Every Oceanic Suite has stunning sea views and balconies from which to enjoy them, some of which are fitted with jacuzzis for that extra touch of exclusivity. And, since all of the balconies are west-facing, it’s the perfect excuse to pop open a bottle of bubbly and revel in a spectacularly romantic rose tinted sunset whilst taking the opportunity to completely unwind.

A beautifully sited saltwater swimming pool takes pride of place at the front of the hotel and is perfect for passing the hours soaking up the sun and counting the ships on the horizon when you have had enough of visiting the city’s attractions. A fantastic spa featuring a delicious range of international treatments is another way to fill the hours as is reading a book on the checkerboard terrace. The Galle Face Hotel has a wide range of eateries including Sea Spray, the Verandah and the fine dining 1864 as well as a couple of atmospheric places to hang out with a stiff drink, relax and evoke thoughts of yesteryear.