The amalgamation of buildings that house Amangalla have been painstakingly restored from their former uses as headquarters for the Dutch commander, home to a billet of British soldiers and from 1865, the New Oriental Hotel. One of twelve hotels in the fort at that time the New Oriental traded for 140 years. Most of the original features and antique furniture has been retained and restored, with 300 year old teak floorboards in the suites.

WHAT ITS GOT

There are four categories of accommodation at Amangalla:-

Bedrooms: There are seven bedrooms with views overlooking either the garden or the nearby historic Groote Kerk (Great Church). The bedroom and separate bathroom are similar in size with four-poster king-size bed, writing desk, pettagama chest, original polished jackwood floors, twin vanities and free-standing baths.

Chambers: Six chambers are located within the Church Street Wing and face the Fort ramparts. An entrance leads into the open plan room, featuring first the bathroom, followed by the bedroom and a separate sitting area.

Suites: There are eight spacious Suites featuring 300 year old polished teak floorboards. An entry hall leads to separate bedroom and lounge area with the bathroom adjacent to the entry hall.

The Garden House: This two storey house is essentially a private villa set within the hotels grounds. It has one bedroom, bathroom, a sitting room, small pantry, day bed, veranda and private balcony offering leafy, treetop views. The original, antique furniture of the house has been restored.

FOOD & DRINKS

The Zaal – the Great Hall – is the main communal area, with dinning at the far end and a relaxed lounge area at the other. In the evening guests are entertained by a pianist on a huge grand piano situated proudly in the centre of the hall. Guest also have the option to eat and drink on the outside veranda which faces a tree lined street and the forts ramparts. Light meals are available on the veranda all day and breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the dining room.

For dinner there is always a choice between a traditional Sri Lankan menu or western dishes which can best be described as fusion cooking. Excellent seafood features heavily and we enjoyed an outstanding crab curry and monkfish served with a tomato salsa on a bed of spring onion mashed potatoes.

FUN & GAMES

Amangalla’s 21m by 10.5m pool is a marvel considering the hotel is located in the fort where space is at a premium. It’s cool contemporary appearance blends harmoniously with the hotels historic façade, thanks to complimentary walkways, a modern spa and library. Poolside service is provided and a variety of light meals and snacks are available.

DRAWBACKS

Some may initially feel a little on edge in the sumptuous and ultra luxurious surrounds of Amangalla, but with an emphasis on relaxation and service this is sure to dissipate quickly.

We wouldn’t recommend too long a stay in the fort with its city like hustle and bustle. Instead, why not opt for 3 nights at Amangalla and then head out to Amanwella on the beachfront for a further 4 days. Aman provide a Fort & Beach package to facilitate this.

WHAT OTHERS THOUGHT

" Was the New Oriental Hotel when we stayed in 1981 and 1996. Has been our favourite hotel stay ever since. Aman has really done the old place justice, retains the old atmosphere. This was a high point and worth every penny. You feel comfortably welcomed from the second you set foot there. And there was not a sign, notice or logo in sight! You could spend a day there and never leave the building. Super swimming pool, library with books, internet and backgammon, spa, lovely antiques everywhere, superb view from the top floor where you take evening drinks. Food fabulous (Galle Fort even better)."
(Jemima Jervis-Read, August 2005)

ESSENTIAL EXTRAS

Bedrooms: £370 Chambers: £530 Suites: £620 Garden House: £1150

Rates are based on 2 people sharing and valid until Sept 2007, although they may vary slightly depending on the dollar exchange rate at time of booking.

Children of all ages are welcome and Amangalla offers a complimentary babysitting service.

Click for more information on: Sri Lanka Holidays, Sri Lanka Villas, Sri Lanka Hotels, Sri Lanka Tours. Better still give us a call on 0207 112 0019 or email srilanka@fleewinter.com for free independent advice on the best places to stay.

Key Features:
Pool - Shared
Restaurant - On-Site
30 double beds
30 bathrooms
30 en-suite
City Views
Sea Views