Introduction
Behind the tasteful, yet anonymous entrance of 41 Lighthouse Street is one of Galle Fort’s largest houses and a true private sanctuary. Stepping into the Sri Lanka villa, a proud entrance greets you still with the original black and white chequered tiles of the early 17C Portuguese owners. Once through the front section of the house, you enter the large, bright courtyard – a space for sunbathing, alfresco dining and refreshing swims in the exquisite pool. The sheltered gazebo in the corner of the high-walled courtyard is a meditative idyll. The whole of 41 Lighthouse Street has been finished to the highest standards with many personal touches giving the house a homely feel. This is one of the leading private villas within Fort and can accommodate up to six guests. The three rooms can be rented on room basis as well as an entire villa.
Accommodation
Of the three bedrooms, the Master Suite and a double room are located on the upper floor; and another double room is set on the ground floor and opens out to the swimming pool. The upper floor bedrooms open out to a balcony that skirts around and has views across the clay tiled roofs of Galle Fort as well as the garden and swimming pool below. These ensuite bedrooms come complete with soft white linen sheets, fitted mosquito nets, a/c, overhead fans, and iPod dock.
Master Suite: This spacious bedroom has a cosy living area with deep-cushioned sofas. This suit is furnished with a magnificent four-poster king-sized bed and has an ensuite bathroom with a copper-plated bath and h/w shower. Room interiors are designed with Teak parquet flooring and tall glass doors that open out a private sun lounging balcony.
Double Rooms: The upper floor double room is furnished with a king-sized four-poster bed and the ground floor bedroom which is smaller in size, has a queen-sized bed.
Facilities
The front section of the villa contains four spacious open-plan rooms with exposed beams and high archways that lead your gaze from one end of the house to the other. The four rooms are split into a library/study; a Billiard room; living area and dining room with bar, all of course are decorated and furnished sumptuously. There are two dining areas, on the terrace for breakfasts and alfresco lunches and under cover for dinner on a splendid teak table. The living area’s huge white couches provide a perfect place to read a book or sip an early evening drink whilst being accompanied by some music courtesy of the SONOS music system. There is also Wi-Fi internet access, Apple TV and a PS4.
There is a well-equipped kitchen. Those who are less culinary-inclined can sit back and let the house staff serve-up wonderful breakfasts; Sri Lankan, western and Asian fusion cuisine. There is a well-stocked bar and wine list from which guests can order their drinks. 41 Lighthouse Street has three helpful staff including Prageeth - the head chef who will also serve drinks and do all your grocery shopping; Wanita who comes in daily to do the cleaning and laundry. A nanny can be hired with prior notice. The villa also has a spa where guests can indulge in various spa treatments.
Why We Like It
The chance to stay in our own historic residence in a lively part of Galle Fort populated by boutique shops and cafes.
Location
41 Lighthouse Street is hidden behind unassuming doors on a quiet street in the historic Galle Dutch Fort, one of Sri Lanka's most popular tourist sites. Galle Fort boasts historic buildings, 17C ramparts, a range of eateries and several charming boutiques, and glorious tropical beaches are just a stone's throw away.
Location: Galle Fort, Galle Coast
Style: Boutique Hotel
No. of Rooms: 3
Key Features: Open-air courtyard with swimming pool