Lady Hill Hotel, Galle, Sri Lanka

Perched at the highest point in the ancient port-city of Galle, Lady Hill Hotel offers a rare combination of colonial heritage and modern comfort. From its elevated position, guests look out over lush green tea plantations that stretch down the mountains to meet the brilliant blue of the Indian Ocean — a panorama that sets this property apart from anything else in the city.

Originally built more than a hundred years ago as a Vicarage of the Church of England, the restored colonial building still retains its old-world charm. The large open verandah, high ceilings, sweeping staircase, and floors and ceilings of teak are all part of the architectural heritage of colonial Sri Lanka, subtly blended with the modern comforts a contemporary traveller expects.

Location

Galle lies 115 km (72 miles) and approximately two and a half hours by road from Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital city. Historically the island's first international trade centre, Galle today serves as the provincial capital of Southern Sri Lanka. Lady Hill itself sits just a five-minute walk from the heart of town, close to some of the finest beaches on the island, yet secluded enough to feel genuinely relaxing and rejuvenating.

Accommodation

The hotel's 20 rooms are housed in a modern five-storey building, each with its own balcony affording what can only be described as a picture-perfect view. Rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with attached bathrooms offering hot and cold running water, air-conditioning, a mini fridge and bar, piped music, television with domestic and satellite channels, IDD telephone facilities, and room service.

Dining and the Harbour Bar

The restaurant serves the best of Sri Lankan cuisine alongside a selection of Chinese and other international specialities. Particularly notable are the pizzas baked in original wood-fired stoves. The kitchen makes a point of sourcing fresh ingredients — seafood directly from the Indian Ocean and fruits and vegetables from growers and market gardens within local communities.

Above the restaurant, the rooftop open-air Harbour Bar is widely regarded as the finest vantage point in Galle. Whether guests are sipping a favourite cocktail or watching the sun set over Galle Harbour as the stars emerge in the twilight sky, the Harbour Bar's subdued lighting and relaxing music lend the setting a quiet magic.

Facilities

• Swimming pool — positioned so that the entire Galle Harbour spreads out below, the pool offers a genuine sense of elevation and ease.
• Tennis courts — available for guests who prefer a more active afternoon.
• Business room — equipped with email and internet facilities for travellers who need to stay connected.
• Natural healing therapy — drawing on ancient wellness traditions, the hotel offers programmes aimed at health, balance, and wellbeing.

Meditation and the Bhavana Centre

The neighbouring Bhavana Centre provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about Theravada Buddhism in the very country which, according to legend, was chosen by the Buddha himself as its home. Guided meditation sessions offer guests a chance to step back from everyday stresses and explore one of Sri Lanka's most enduring spiritual traditions.