GBP
Amangalla
PRICE: Worth maxing out for
If you’ve yet to sample the Aman experience, you’re in for a very special treat at Amangalla. Formerly the fabled New Oriental Hotel in historic Galle, Sri Lanka, it’s now an Aman hotel. What more is there to say? A Yonder favourite, the Amangalla Galle has the period charm of a bygone era. Built in 1684, the historic edifice retains its heritage in every architectural and decorative detail.
And after you’ve passed through the thick entrance arch to Galle fort, and bumped along the cobbles for a minute or two, you’ll be overawed by the grandeur of what you find before you.
Today, the Amangalla hotel is exceptional: polished, crisp and sumptuous. The gardens and pool are a true oasis at the beating heart of a bustling city.
Restored with care and brought to life by antique furnishings and decorations, the 30 rooms and suites are connected by a two-storey Garden House. The suites are magnificent. The service is flawless. The décor throughout is a delicate blend of colonial opulence with contemporary minimalism. Polished teak floorboards date back to the building’s origins, and the interiors are decorated with antiques that span centuries. The windows look out over the fort or the property’s mature gardens.
Have a late morning treatment at the indulgent spa. Afternoon tea and scones in the library, flicking through the scrapbooks of a bygone era is a treat. Sip mango Bellinis overlooking the old city rooftops from the sunset balcony. And when the next morning comes, ask your butler to give you a private guided tour of the old town.
There’s so much to talk about after just a couple of nights here. And if you encounter other people who have stayed, they will almost certainly want to compare notes.
Amangalla: The Gallery
Yonder Insight
An afternoon relaxing by the pool is heavenly, even better if combined with a little lunch first. We recommend the gazpacho, followed by the Sri Lankan marinated chicken. Retire after to the ambalamas for a snooze.
On your doorstep
Galle fort is a treasure trove. The antique shop on Ley Baan Street is just a few minutes’ walk and once there you’ll be excitedly planning to ship home crates of beautiful furniture.
