One of the oldest hotels east of the Suez, the Galle Face Hotel was established in 1864 along the seafront facing the famous Galle Face Green. Over the years, this iconic historic hotel has housed royalty and celebrities. It has survived many trials and stands testimony to the vibrant heritage and history of colonial Ceylon.
Today it is where old world charm meets modern, luxurious hospitality. The hotel has two wings known as the South Wing and the North Wing. The South Wing offers 84 rooms, some of which provide a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean. There are two restaurants, namely the 1864 fine dining restaurant and the Pool Bar, a gym, a spa, a library, and a unique saltwater swimming pool overlooking the seafront. The hotel is an about a 45-minute journey from the airport.
The Hotel started out as a Dutch villa called Galle Face House that had been a meeting place for gentlemen of the colonial era. That was until four British entrepreneurs decided to use it to start a business, unaware that, by the late 19th century, it would be known as the best hotel East of Suez.