Lighthouse Hotel & Spa

One of Geoffrey Bawa's earliest and most famous works of architecture. Designed to harmonise with the natural beauty of its surroundings, the Lighthouse combines luxury hotel with an ayurvedic spa. A most distinctive feature at the hotel entrance is a sculptured metal ballustrade enclosing a spiral staircase which sweeps to the roof top. It depicts a tale of the Dutch invaders, featuring the Sinhala king playing his flute and life- size horsemen in battle. The hotel sits on a rocky outcrop above the beach with terraces sweeping down to the golden sands and the Indian Ocean. The hotel sits alongside a natural reef and bay which is safe for swimming nearly all year round. The large pools and adjoining sundeck allow you to enjoy an unterrupted view of the blues and greens of sea and sky. Or stroll down through the gardens to the beach side and the Serena spa. The main body of the hotel has corridors dappled by shadows from tall slender pillars and colonial night lamps ( a further mark of Geoffrey Bawa). The 60 rooms lead off in somewhat regimented rows. Ideally located for Galle's fascinating historic Fort and the cosmopolitan restaurants but sufficiently far away to escape the noise and grime of the bustling City. The active may wish to venture on a fishing trip for whale and dolphin spotting, or challenge their partner to a game of tennis, squash or pool. The more serious athlete may wish to interrupt the sunbathing with a work-out in the gymnasium. For most, this is a perfect hotel for 1-3 nights stay whilst you explore the South coast, crafts and fishermen before heading further East, North or West for more adventure.