Call it the design haven. Call it the architectural marvel. The Jetwing lighthouse Galle is beyond an adjective. A marvelous artistic expression, right on the banks of Indian Ocean. This property is a living manifestation of tropical modern architecture. A property that lives and breathes and has a character of its own. It won’t be an exaggeration to describe this masterpiece by legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa as the hottest destination in Srilanka.
You feel to have been transported to a place that is an iconic reflection of light, space and art. The long endless corridors, expansive open spaces inter wine with earthy rustic hues creating the most magnificent scenes. One of the last greatest works of design by Bawa and also built under his personal supervision, it boasts his trademark touches of saffron, brass and bronze. The wide open spaces graciously connect to the sprawling outdoors.
Located just beyond the city limits, Jetwing Lighthouse is easily accessible from all parts of the tropical isle. From the capital city of Colombo, you can reach the hotel via the scenic coastal drive of 3-4 hours along the road that runs right outside the property.
One of the most iconic Galle hotels, Jetwing Lighthouse rests atop a beautiful hillock overlooking the vast Indian Ocean, at the edge of Southern coast of Srilanka. It is serene to see the wave’s crash over giant boulders in front of the hotel.
Hotels heritage interiors are a luxurious blend of ancient, tropical and modernist influences – like the staircase depicting a historic Dutch & Sinhalese battle in 1905 by Bawa’s friend and late artist Laki Senanayake. His life –sized dramatic brass characters curl up two floors of stairs to evoke the rich, local stories of the land.
Accommodation that brings in the outdoors
Sprawled over 7 acres of tropical heritage luxury, the hotel features 85 light filled, spacious rooms and themed suites that come with a personalised butler service and features Bawa’s signature tropical modern aesthetic.
Each suite is a doorway into another time and place, creating a unique ambience on its own. For instance, the Fa-Hsien Suite pays tribute to imperial China, the Ibn-Batuta Suite resembles the vibrant Morocco, and the Spilbergen Suite carries on the legacy of Dutch heritage in our southern capital.
The other Superior Suites — the Maharaja Suite, features design influences that resemble a regal India while the John Davy Suite, resembles the grandeur of an old English manor.
Experiences for the soul
Jetwing Lighthouse’s strategic location serves as a perfect base to explore the southern region of the island. The resort is in close proximity to several tourist attractions like Galle’s 17th century fort (home to restaurants, boutiques and cafes), Galle International Cricket Stadium and Galle Fort National Museum, making it the ideal spot to explore the city of Galle.
Guests can indulge in many local activities like rainforest trek or learn about the renowned cinnamon cultivation in the region, or even take a boat with the resident naturalist and say hello to the blue whales and dolphins, known to make their home in the Srilankan seas.
The resort also features an excellent Ayurveda and wellness Spa – not just for adults but kids as well – that offers a range of curated signature treatments to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul.
A culinary sojourn
Jetwing Lighhouse masterfully crafts exquisite dining experiences. You can enjoy private dinners with candlelit tables for a perfect date night on the beach with your own chef and server or indulge in a champagne breakfast overlooking the Indian Ocean.
The resort also features an exquisite selection of fine dining spaces. While the Cinnamon Room, specialising in sea food is a dinner-only restaurant, the Cardamom Café is a stand out among Galle restaurants operating 24 hours a day. A meal at Nihal’s, named after its world –renowned executive chef, Nihal Senanayake, at Jetwing is something one can’t miss. The chef has carefully crafted each dish to lend a global appeal with a signature Sri Lankan touch.
This gastronomic experience is enhanced by selection of a range of cocktails and mocktails and everything in between with its old world bar – the Coats of Arms Bar , a nostalgic old-world space with rustic charms to keep the spirits high all the while you stay here.
To discover more about the services offered by Jetwing Lighthouse Galle, visit www.jetwinghotels.com.
