Fort Printers

Introduction

Fort Printers is an exquisite 13 room boutique hotel spread across three adjoining colonial period villas in the heart of Galle Fort. Heritage architecture is given an uncluttered, contemporary makeover. Fort Printers has expanded considerably since it first opened several years ago. The original Fort Printers property on Pedlar’s Street once housed a school, the Bank of Ceylon and finally a printing press. Some of the building’s historical artefacts are displayed. In 2013, Fort Printers added two more wings in adjoining Dutch period villas. Guests have access to all facilities at the main building including the restaurant and swimming pool. Both these villas can be booked by the room or as a whole villa. Fort Printers is the sister property of Frangipani Tree – a wonderful beachside boutique hotel in nearby Thalpe about 15 minutes away. Guests can use the swimming pool, tennis court, and restaurant at Frangipani Tree.

Accommodation

Bedrooms are decorated with silk drapers and slick furniture combining a wealth of styles. All rooms have hardwood or polished cement floors, high wooden roofs, a/c, ceiling fans, wifi, and tea/coffee facility. Bedrooms have king-size beds, writing desk, and lounge chair. The ensuite bathrooms have h/w showers and toiletries.

Accommodation at Fort Printers mansion: A throwback to its original days as a day school, the five suites are named History, Geography, Arts, Headmaster’s and the Prefect’s. Arts, History, & Geography suites: Upper-floor suites with a verendah overlooking the corner of Pedlar’s and Church Streets. Head Master’s Suite: Also on the upper floor, this is a beautiful suite with a raised platform bed at one end and a sitting area with throw cushions at the other which can also serve as a day bed. The windows open on to the swimming pool below. This is a romantic suite which is ideal for a couple and is also suitable for a family. Prefect’s Room: A smaller room on the ground floor by the poolside and courtyard restaurant.

Accommodation at Pedlar’s Street Wing: Of the three suites, two are on the first floor with views to the courtyard and the tiled rooftops of adjoining heritage houses; while the third suite is located on the ground floor and opens on to the garden and courtyard. These suites are named Pedlar Suite 1, Pedlar Suite 2 and 54 Villa Room and have king-size four-poster beds with mosquito netting, a chaise lounge and writing desk. Facilities include a/c, overhead fan, iPod dock upon request, Wi-Fi. Ensuite bathrooms have antique bath tubs and h/w showers.

Accommodation at Church Street Wing: Five spacious suites open to a central courtyard. Four-poster king-sized beds, writing desk and lounge chair. Facilities include a/c, overhead fan, iPod dock upon request, and Wi-Fi. Ensuite bathrooms have antique bath tub and h/w showers. The Church Street Wing can be accessed through the garden restaurant of the Fort Printers mansion or there is also a separate entrance through Church Street. The villa can be booked by the room or in its entirety.

Fort Printers does not have twin rooms but if there are requests for twin beds, the hotel will be able to provide an additional sofa bed or a folding bed.

Facilities

Main Fort Printers mansion: The lounge is elegantly furnished with large sofas. Books, cable TV, DVD, music system. Neat verandah beside the pool provides welcome shade by day and a romantic scene at night. Guest can dine indoors or in the courtyard under the shade of Frangipani Trees. The pool is small and relatively narrow, but perfectly good for the size of the hotel. The restaurant uses fresh seafood and organic, local produce. Two dedicated chefs plan the menu based on guests' preferences: Sri Lankan curries, grilled fresh seafood and Mediterranean inspired specialties. Regular exhibitions encourage local artists.

Pedlar’s Street Wing: Large living and dining room has high ceilings and skylights.

Church Street Wing:  Living room, open courtyard dining area; a large, well-equipped kitchen, bright and airy central courtyard with Frangipani Trees. This villa can be booked by the room or in its entirety and can accommodate 10 guests.

Why We Like It

An excellent restaurant adds extra lustre to this well-regarded Galle Fort villa.

Location

Fort Printers, at the corner of Pedlar’s and Church Street, is at the heart of Galle Fort. The beaches of Unawatuna and Thalpe are only 15 minutes away. About 2.5 hours south of the airport. Consider taking the Air Taxi and fly into Koggala which is about 15 minutes away from Galle Fort. If you are then heading from the coast into the hills, we offer competitive rates on a daily sea plane between Koggala and Hatton.