Close to the Galle Fort’s most famous architectural landmarks, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, this former 17th century bungalow has evolved into The Bungalow, a new boutique hotel rich in design and character. In keeping with its environment, the UNESCO World Heritage Dutch Fort, The Bungalow has retained many of its original features and has married modern design with historical elements paying homage to its colonial past. The Bungalow has six rooms spread out through two floors which contain all modern amenities befitting a boutique hotel. A selection of King and Queen rooms with garden or balcony views are the mainstay of the hotel. The rooms are luxurious, spacious and comfortable. They are furnished tastefully with soft furnishings and statement pieces of beautiful wooden furniture. The ensuite bathrooms are exceptionally large, all equipped with rain showers. The décor is pleasing and creates a homely and comfortable ambiance. It is evident from the design and ergonomic features of the room and bathroom that great emphasis has been placed on the comfort of the guests by its owners.
The property was originally a private residence, however with the passage of time and a passion by its owners, The Bungalow has undergone renovations with great pains taken to protect the original structure and original features of this property rich in character and history. The owners of the property Minha and Robert are widely travelled and have entwined their ideas into the restoration of this historic 17th century property. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site people at the Galle Fort are fascinated by the vibe of this living city. Ancestors of Galle Fort are of merchant traders from colonial times who have lived and worked through three colonial masters over three centuries thus creating an extraordinary fabric of society which lures modern day travellers to the Galle Fort.As a heritage site, everything be it either, a coral or a brick from the Dutch and British era had to be preserved and its owners have ensured that was done with a perfect balance so that The Bungalow is a worthy contribution to this amazing living city.
Scattered around The Bungalow are valuable antiques and original artworks which have been blended with great finesse to give a contemporary aura which works well with the colonial feel of the property. The restaurant at The Bungalow serves hearty food which warms the soul. Good comfort food which will delight diners with a discerning palate is de rigueur. The chefs at The Bungalow take great pride in preparing a range of cuisine using the finest, freshest seasonal ingredients. Meals can be taken within the intimate atmosphere of the restaurant or out in the open verandah. They also offer a variety of especially created drinks which are innovative and delightful. The Bungalow has also gained a well earned reputation for creating some of the best cuisine in the Galle Fort. The Bungalow is located on Church Cross Street, one of the quieter streets in the heart of the Galle Fort and is a short walk to all the iconic and popular historic buildings, monuments and shops within this walled city.
Visitors to The Bungalow are encouraged to visit other sites which are situated out of the Galle Fort such as the Unawatuna beach and the old market area bustling with activity, giving travellers a glimpse of local life at its most vibrant. Despite being a new property in the Galle Fort, The Bungalow is already enjoying fame and is now one of the top places recommended by travellers on Trip Advisor. A combination of period features, charming ambiance, antique furniture and excellent service make this one of the Galle Fort’s more desirable hotels thus earning plaudits from travellers from across the world. Experiencing life in the Galle Fort, should be on every traveller’s agenda and what better way to do it than while staying at The Bungalow which ensures their guests are provided with quality accommodation, gourmet cuisine, and excellent service while living the life within this age old living city.
Words: Tina Edward Gunawardhana
