Amangalla, Galle
Amangalla is set amidst the enchanting grounds of a UNESCO-protected 400-year-old living fort, among the best-preserved colonial fortifications in Asia. Its name combines the Sanskrit word for peace and the Sinhalese word for Galle. This building which houses this world class Aman chain hotel dates back to the 1640s, at the time when the fort was controlled by the Dutch, and was the headquarters of the Dutch command and in 1864 during British colonial rule, was the New orient Hotel. The Aman group have tastefully refurbished the property in keeping with its ancient colonial history, with its high ceilings, the elegant colonnaded veranda and each of the 33 rooms and suites have been designed to revive the best of old world style, and each stunning room opens out to beautiful views, either of the leafy garden surrounds, Galle’s 18th-century Groote Kerk (Great Church), the Fort treetops or a harbor views. Amangalla’s signature spa is The Baths, and recaptures a bygone era in water therapy for rejuvenation.