Fort Bliss

Introduction

Fort Bliss is a refurbished colonial-period house located within Galle’s 17C Dutch Fort. This four-bedroom property is owned by a Sri Lankan family that has lived within the Galle Fort for many generations. The villa is accessed via Lighthouse Street and stretches up to Rampart Street. A tall parapet wall at the edge of the property provides much privacy. The interiors at Fort Bliss are spacious, airy and well equipped. The ground floor consists of a living and dining area and two bedrooms opening out to a narrow strip of garden. The upper floor has three more bedrooms with sea views. Fort Bliss can be rented by the room or as a whole and can accommodate up to eight guests.

Accommodation

The four bedrooms are spacious and furnished with antique twin or double beds, almirah and work desk. The polished cement floors are given a hint of colour and vary in each of the rooms. In-room facilities include a/c, overhead ceiling fans, and safe. The ensuite bathrooms have h/w showers.

Green Room: Located on the ground floor, this room is furnished with twin beds and opens out on to the narrow garden.

Yellow & Blue Rooms: These are located on the upper floor and are furnished with double beds. Both rooms open out to a balcony and sea views from one side.

Master Bedroom: This is a spacious room with a king-size four-poster bed, couch and cupboard. This room opens out to a small sit out and has direct sea views over the tall boundary wall.

Facilities

The living and dining rooms open out to a small sit out and strip of garden. Living room has cable TV. The entire house has wifi internet. Dine in the living room which is furnished with a 10 seater table or out on the verandah. There is also a well equipped kitchen. Sri Lankan or western breakfasts are served here. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants where guests can choose to have their other meals. Most will deliver to the house. For Bliss is staffed with a manager, cook and housekeeper.

Why We Like It

Coastal sunsets from some rooms and a slightly Moroccan vibe give this property an edge in its price range.

Location

Fort Bliss is situated at the edge of the Galle Fort ramparts; the sea views from the second floor are wonderful. Unawatuna’s sun-kissed beaches are just 15 minutes away. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take about four hours which will be reduced considerably once the Southern highway is completed by the end of 2011.