Brits feeling the chill might be daydreaming of sunnier spots, and Galle in Sri Lanka is a perfect winter escape with its balmy 30C average temperature.
This coastal gem not only offers abundant sunshine but also a wealth of attractions for visitors. The crowning glory is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, complemented by tranquil tropical scenery and a charming old town. Known as Gimhathiththa before the Portuguese arrived in the 16th century, Galle was the island’s main port.
Travel experts from Salt in our Hair say: “Galle Fort is the most beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka. Here, life slows down as locals play cricket alongside the beach, travellers walk on the ancient fort walls, and street vendors sell fresh tropical fruit under the palm trees.
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“Its history makes it a melting pot of culture, with a unique fusion of European and Asian influences, as seen in the whitewashed Dutch-style buildings that line the cobbled streets.”
Mollie, the adventurous soul behind We are Global Travellers, has shared her vibrant experience: “Turns out Galle is an incredibly vibrant cultural hub with a history dating back to the late 16th Century when Galle Fort was first conquered by the Portuguese. Galle was then taken over by the Dutch in the 17th century and for over 200 years, it was Sri Lanka’s main spice trading port.”
She followed up with: “Yes there are lots of cool spice shops here – the perfect souvenir. Oblivious to a lot of the details we now know of Galles history, we wandered around, totally charmed and with huge curiosity. We could feel the depths of the history and the richness of the stories that lived here.”
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Online reviewers on Tripadvisor are raving about Dalawella Beach, with one enthusiast branding it “an amazing place”, reports the Express. They outlined their experience: “Take snorkelling gear with you when visiting. Beware of strong currents on the west side of the beach. The eastern area is calm and great for snorkel.”
It’s not just the history that’s drawing travellers in – Galle’s beaches also earned praise. They have been described as the ultimate winter getaway since they’re blissfully quiet during the off-season, coined as the “perfect place” to unwind.
Echoing the sentiment, another cheerful visitor added: “Beautiful beach, with a large protected lagoon at the Galle end of the beach, where we had regular close encounters with turtles.”
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