The Merchant

Introduction

The Merchant is a classic Galle Fort colonial-style hotel with a villa option, its adjacent two-bedroom town house being its piece de resistance. Dating back to the 17th century, the Merchant building has over the years served as a fruit market, and later as a state office prior to being a charming boutique hotel which has further enhanced the Fort’s reputation for wonderful accommodation. The Merchant (or Mer.chant as it likes to call itself in a gesture towards modernity) is on Pedlar Street, in the heart of the Fort. Guests are able to discover Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage and culture with ease. Wandering its rambling lanes, you will pass stylish cafes, quirky boutiques and impeccably restored hotels owned by local and foreign artists, writers, photographers and designers. Perhaps not always the most peaceful or exclusive of Galle’s many Fort properties but definitely one of the most attractive and sociable.

Accommodation

The Merchant has 14 smartly-decorated rooms on the upper floors of the hotel. Each room brings a modern palette to traditional designs and also has a shared balcony space segregated by wooden panels to watch the world go by in the heart of the Fort. Rooms are non-smoking and have flat-screen TV with satellite and cable channels, windows opening out onto balcony with views over the Fort, mini fridge, safe, tea/coffee facilities, free wi-fi, laundry service. Rooms are categorised as Superior Deluxe King, Superior Deluxe Twin, Deluxe and the top-of-the-range option, the Church Street Town House.

The Deluxe (21 sqm) sleeps 2. The Superior Deluxe Twin (25 sqm) has twin beds and can sleep 3. The Superior Deluxe King (25 sqm) can also sleep 3. The Church Street Town House offers some of the finest accommodation in the Fort. It is 300 sqm and can sleep 6 with two king beds and a sofa bed. It has a separate living area, full kitchen with microwave, its own private entrance and courtyard and a full-size refrigerator.

Facilities

The 1710 restaurant is a long indoor restaurant with black-and-white tiled floor and imposing rattan lampshades hanging from high ceilings. There is also the appealing option of al-fresco dining in the courtyard under the shade of frangipani and avocado trees and serves both local and international dishes: an enticing spot for an early-evening drink. Signature specialities include the distinctive Galle Biryani which first came to Sri lanka from Arab settlers. The hotel offers guided tours of the Fort with a knowledgeable local resident.

Why we like it

The Merchant’s courtyard is a buzzy and tasteful place for a relaxing drink or a full-scale meal.

Location

Pedlar Street is in the heart of the Fort on one of the most sought-after streets.