The Charleston

Our family of four (with kids aged 7 and 12) just spent two wonderful nights at The Charleston, the perfect base in the Fort mixed with style, comfort, and views. Full disclosure, we are the design architects for this lovely hotel so I will focus on the experience over the design. From check-in onwards, the staff was respectfully attentive and welcoming which made us feel right at home. We tried both the terrace rooms ( the private garden decks were perfect for reading or afternoon naps) as well as one night in the larger suites which were very bright and sunny. Of course the stand out is the terrace and pool, although perhaps a bit too hot for breakfast, by early afternoon and evening it was the perfect spot for refreshing dip in the pool followed by sunset drinks and dinner into the evening. The ocean breezes in August makes it especially pleasant. Since it is a popular spot, the crowd gives it a vibrant social atmopshere, however the staff always ensure that the guests have a reserved table ( or sofa for drinks) in advance. As mentioned, the stay was particularly special for us because as the architects it was amazing to finally stay as guests and see it full of people enjoying themselves. After years of planning and design it was fulfilling to see this vision come to life.

After spending a few days inland, we moved on to Galle and stayed at the Charleston Hotel, and what a breath of fresh air it was. Everything about this hotel radiates design and style. It was spotless, smelled fresh, and felt light and welcoming. The bed was by far the most comfortable one I experienced during our entire trip. The reception staff were incredibly kind and always eager to help, and the same goes for the restaurant team. Breakfast was delicious and tailored to our wishes, fresh, made with high-quality ingredients. On top of that, the rooftop bar is fantastic, perfect for enjoying the views with a drink, and the swimming pool was a real highlight for our kids, who loved having the chance to cool down and play. All in all, staying here was a true delight and such a refreshing experience. Highly recommended!

We liked everything.

The breakfast was lovely, overall amazing service of the staff of Charlie’s Bar!

Le charleston est une vraie réussite. Tout d'abord son emplacement. À l'intérieur du fort de galle, on peut difficilement faire mieux. La terrasse du restaurant donne sur l'océan indien, ses vagues et sur les remparts. Le personnel est très attentionné. On ma rajouté une lampe sur la terrasse pour lire mon journal. Tout en teck, les chambres sont confortables et la salle de bain grandiose. Je vous recommande le petit déjeuner Sri Lankais. Le Daal, à la crémeuse sauce coco, vaut le détour tout comme le coconut rotti, l'un des meilleurs que nous ayons mangé au sri lanka, le hopper (exellentissime) ou le curry de thon, dont les morceaux étaient particulièrement frais. C'est remarquable même si on est, ici, très très proche de l'océan. La piscine est enfin une dernière raison pour se rendre à cet hôtel. Musique sur le roof top le samedi à partir de 17h. Un must. Ah oui, j'oubliais. L'une des entrées de l'hôtel donne sur les remparts avec, en contrebas, une magnifique petite plage. Le matin, je vous invite donc à quelques brasses dans l'océan indien, suivies d'un plongeon dessalant dans la piscine de l'hôtel. Un goût de paradis.

Le charleston est une vraie réussite. Tout d'abord son emplacement. À l'intérieur du fort de galle, Seul bémol, si on veut être tatillon, la nourriture du dejeuner et du diner qui est, à mon goût, trop occidentale. Le crispy chicken n'était, par exemple, pas fou-fou.

Wonderful decor, excellent rooms, swimming pool and lounge area superb, friendly and helpful staff, perfect location

The Charleston is a beautiful, small hotel in a great location in Galle Fort. It is a short walk to the lighthouse, and overlooks the west rampart of the fort and the ocean. The hotel is very comfortable and rooms are well appointed. Little extras like the evening Turn Down were appreciated. The staff. were exceptional. I highly recommend this hotel.

Can't think of one thing