I always think there’s something special about finding a hidden little gem in a faraway land and that is exactly what Fort Bazaar is! A very recently renovated 17th century townhouse in the stunning Galle Fort, the hotel is hip and achingly stylish, and its restaurant has a growing reputation as the place to eat and be seen in Galle. Sri Lanka is a beautiful island with so much to explore; from its 1340km coastline to tropical rainforests, ancient Buddhist ruins and safari tours. Flights from London to this tropical paradise take just under 11 hours.
There are numerous beaches nearby, including the surfing hotspots of Midigama and Weligama, while whale watching cruises embark from picturesque Mirissa. Exploring Galle’s verdant inland hinterland rewards with glimpses of rural villages, oceans of paddy fields and temples, and is best enjoyed on a guided bicycle ride or you could savour the serenity with a jungle yoga class. Close to Koggala Lake is a lowland tea plantation, which offers absorbing estate tours.
Review Of Fort Bazaar Boutique Hotel
New for 2016, Fort Bazaar is an 18-bedroom boutique hotel situated in the very heart of the town of Galle; featuring the acclaimed Church Street Social restaurant and bar, a private cinema, library and Z spa. The hotel is built around a traditional Galle Fort private courtyard which is very much the hub of Fort Bazaar. A light, airy space, it is here that you first get a flavour of the incredible design. While retaining the colonial feel (and where possible the original features – with original teak rafters used for the bar and in the cinema room), there is a Moroccan vibe. Think beautiful patterns and prints, with beautiful Moroccan colours, but with a quirky modern twist. You’ll be Instagramming everything trust me! The courtyard is a beautiful spot to just hang out and relax in your own hidden gem. The hotel is part of a small group called Teardrop Hotels; they are passionate about Sri Lanka and have a growing portfolio of hotels (currently 5) all with 3 things in common: the properties are all beautifully renovated historic buildings, their service is first class and the dining a sumptuous fusion of Asian and Western flavours.
Rooms
There are 3 main room types available; Bazaar Bedrooms which feature gorgeous high ceilings and overlook the central courtyard, Banyan Bedrooms all include a private terrace or veranda, then there are the Upper Suites. There are only 3 of these simply stunning suites – huge at 85 m², they feature free standing bath tubs and the only private balconies in Fort Galle with fantastic views of the busy Church Street below. You can also opt for the Family Upper Suite with a connecting additional room, a great option for travelling families. All rooms include a Nespresso machine, breakfast, mini bar soft drinks, afternoon tea and an evening cocktail.
Restaurant & Bar
The Church Street Social restaurant and bar not only boasts delicious food but the location is simply fabulous too, sit out on the bustling Church Street and watch the world go by or relax under the veranda. The food is simply sensational, from breakfast right through to the evening meal, with the Moroccan influence reaching right to your plate! A tapas menu is also on offer with fun sharing platters featuring a great mix of Asian and International flavours.
Spa & Activities
The beautiful Z spa at Fort Bazaar has 3 treatment rooms where you can relax, be pampered and leave refreshed and rejuvenated. Galle Fort itself is a UNESCO protected site and is fascinating to explore during a walk around its walls, hiring a guide is advisable to ensure that you don’t miss any of the best bits! The town of Galle is full of cultural highlights, shops, restaurants and cafés; keep an eye out as there are several stylish boutique shops tucked away that are well worth a visit. For exploring the rest of Sri Lanka, the team at Fort Bazaar will happily recommend activities and even design you a personalised menu of curated experiences if you wish. Sri Lanka is well known for its tea, the tea factories and estates make a fascinating alternative destination if you fancy something different.
If the idea of a hidden, but very funky gem, in this sensational country appeals, then Fort Bazaar should definitely be on your horizon; get here quick before everyone else discovers it!
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