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The Fortress, Galle | Timbuktu Travel
Galle

The Fortress

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About The Fortress

A laid-back resort where spa days, beach walks and easy living are the name of the game.
Down a long stretch of sand on Sri Lanka's south coast, The Fortress took its design cue from Galle's famous ramparts - with a spot of modernisation where required! Heavy columns and deep walls keep this spot quiet and undisturbed, and the facilities are impeccable, with rooms boasting 7-by-7-foot beds, jetted bathtubs and in some, an indoor plunge pool. The food dazzles, from homemade 'pol sambol' ice cream to seafood grills, and a special tea making ceremony on the lawn. Sri Lanka's coast is a haven for sea turtles too, where nesting season takes place between October and April every year. You could even help them reach the ocean if you time a visit correctly.
Galle , Sri Lanka
From $230 per person/per night
None
53 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The large infinity pool and a bevy of sun loungers occupies the seafront while a lush inner courtyard is used as the yoga sanctuary. When you're in need of a pamper, head to the spa where an Ayurvedic doctor will discern what you need, whether it's a chakra massage or the traditional Shirodhara. Enjoy a variety of international (wood-fired pizza) and Sri Lankan dishes (rice curry served on a banana leaf) at the main restaurant, or visit the Salty Snapper for delicious seafood. Then, sip on one of over 2000 wines in the glass-walled cellar.

The rooms

The Fortress has 53 rooms with a light, airy design and hardwood floors, each decorated in mod, eclectic furnishings and bold artwork. Most rooms are sea-facing while the Fortress rooms enjoy a private garden or patio for breakfast with a sunny morning view. The bathrooms are open-plan with rain showers, jetted tubs and high-end Bulgari toiletries. There are two Residences, which feature a jacuzzi and private, outdoor pool. The largest rooms also enjoy the personal care of a butler.

Activities

From sun up, the beach is inviting whether you're enjoying long, languid strolls, a spot of sunbathing or simply watching Sri Lanka stilt fishermen at work. A little further along the coast, Unawatuna Beach is perfect for snorkelling, while Mirissa is a known hotspot for surfing - and you may just see the magnificent Blue Whale there too. Get your fill of history and haggling in Galle, or head a little inland for an idyllic boat ride on Koggala Lake (and a fish pedicure for the brave).
Why we love it

Why we love it

The Fortress 'Stilt Fisherman Indulgence' dessert, made with Italian Cassata, pomegranate and mango compote and hand-crafted chocolate fishermen, surrounding an 80-carat aquamarine stone. You'll thank us later.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

There is a toddler-friendly 'beach' in the main pool and a kids pool and, so families are most welcome.
Something to think about

Something to think about

Ocean swimming isn't possible along the entire beach, but it is available in an area east of the hotel, sheltered by boulders.
Trips

Tours & Trips

Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch

Classic Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka

Classic Sri Lanka

13 nights from $9.2K per person

Sri Lanka's Secret Side
Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's Secret Side

13 nights from $7.7K per person

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How to book The Fortress

How do I book The Fortress?

The Fortress can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Sri Lanka trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Sri Lanka trips featuring The Fortress or get advice and suggestions from one of our Sri Lanka specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at The Fortress?

Stays at The Fortress start from around $230 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

The Fortress

Sri Lanka

Galle

A cosmopolitan colonial town on the sultry south-west coast stuffed with hipper-than-hip eateries, hotels and cafes.