Heritage
Day Tripping to the Historic Galle Fort
Melissa Hart | Travel WriterFebruary 22, 20247 min read
UNESCO
Architecture
Day Trips
Galle Fort is an easy 45-minute coastal drive south of Ambalangoda, yet it feels like a different century. The ramparts, first laid by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch, now cradle a lattice of boutiques, cafes, and art studios behind honey-hued granite walls.
Start at the lighthouse where sea breezes keep the morning cool. Wander towards Peddlar Street to browse handloom sarongs and curated design stores, then pause for a passionfruit gelato from the iconic Pedlar's Inn cafe.
Suggested Itinerary
- Climb the lighthouse and visit the National Maritime Museum.
- Pause for fusion tapas in the Dutch Hospital courtyard.
- Browse Church Street galleries filled with art and antiques.
- Join locals on the ramparts as the sky shifts through pastel hues.
Return to Villa Kelly's with handcrafted souvenirs, a camera roll of ochre alleyways, and the salty breeze still lingering in your hair.
