If you’re looking for a private and stylish sanctuary within the Galle Fort this is our pick for you.

Forty One Lighthouse Street is located just a few seconds from the fort’s fabulous restaurants, shops and bars, and a few minutes by tuk-tuk from the golden and palm fringed beaches and it offers everything you need to unwind in heritage terrain.

This quiet little hideaway is a fabulous house that feels lived in and loved. Shelves bulge with amazing books, stunning art adorning the walls and pictures scattered all over.

The billiards table and pink-lit bar adds in a youthful appeal whilst the many lounging areas offer scope for both sociable and solitary occasions. You thought right. It was time to catch up on some reading.

Three gorgeous double bedrooms complete with air conditioning, soft Egyptian cotton sheets, ensuite terrazzo bathrooms and private balconies over the courtyard. The Master Suite is furnished with ‘cuddle up’ sofas, private sun lounging balcony, flat screen TV and iPod compatible surround sound.

The Master Suite’s bathroom boasts an enormous copper bath tub. “Forty One” is all about living space, and there is plenty to choose from – a private bar complete with drinks fridge and cocktail books for hosting a party; a reading ambalama in the deep lawn looking back over the vast pool that keeps you cool during the heat of the day; the library, fitted with wireless broadband if you need to stay in touch; a sitting room complete with DVD collection and Satellite TV and, of course, a pool table. “Forty One” kitchen has been designed with food lovers in mind, either get your hands dirty or let the  staff do all the work for you.

The two staff members, Prageeth and Roshan ensured the service was impeccable. According to Prageeth, one of them can stay in the house at night if requested; otherwise you’re left to your own devices.

You can either choose meals from the extended menu – which lists a fabulous array of dishes adapted by the manager/cook from the many cookery books lining the kitchen shelves – or self cater.

Considering most of us enjoy our own personal space with our friends or family, when we’re on vacation, the house is a great place for entertaining while the bar alone warrants company.

The enclosed back garden really enhances 41 Lighthouse Street’s appeal, and the experienced staff make the house is a good choice for those wishing to celebrate or socialise with friends.

Lighthouse Street is located in the middle of Galle Fort so all the main attractions are within walking distance: the owner’s two dogs, Cricket and Polo, love nothing better than joining guests on afternoon strolls atop the ramparts. 

41 Lighthouse Street Indulgences

Prageeth, an excellent chef, prepared the simplest yet delectable meals we’ve had in ages. The scrumptious Seafood Salad and Cinnamon/Banana Milkshake along with a rustic Sri Lankan Breakfast (String Hoppers and Egg Hoppers)

No surprise that this spot is used for literary lunches and famed for its dinner parties; the house has all the things you need for modern living in a fabulous Dutch colonial setting.

The Villa adds that holiday ‘oomph’ factor from the moment you walk through the entrance and look through a series of arches out onto the deep emerald-coloured pool, complete with magical lighting and a fountain. This is Galle Fort's 'shabby chic' at its best.

Verdict

Accommodation: 9/10

Service: 10/10

Ambiance: 10/10

Food: 9/10

How to Book:

T: +94 77 363 8381

E: [email protected]

W: http://www.lighthousestreet.com/

By Keshiya Leitch