Writer’s Lodge by Ishq – Quiet refuge in heart of Galle Fort

Wednesday, 19 February 2025 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A colonial hideaway for the inspired traveller

The most remarkable homes are those that offer more than just comfort – they evoke a sense of belonging. This is the philosophy behind Ishq Luxury Villas, a collection of some of Sri Lanka’s most exclusive private residences, where luxury is intimate, deeply personal, and seamlessly delivered.

Inspired by the Sufi concept of Ishq, meaning “divine love”, the brand was founded on the belief that true hospitality is felt in the smallest details, in the warmth of a home, and in experiences that linger long after departure. From the refined urban retreat of Ishq Colombo, designed by Channa Daswatta, to the five-suite beachfront sanctuary of Ishq Talpe, each villa is a distinct expression of place and character. Highgrove Estate by Ishq, a meticulously restored 19th-century bungalow in Nuwara Eliya, brings timeless elegance to the hills, while the latest addition – Writer’s Lodge by Ishq – introduces Ishq’s signature hospitality to the heart of Galle Fort.

Tucked away on a quiet street, Writer’s Lodge by Ishq is a lesson in considered simplicity. Carefully restored to preserve its colonial charm, the villa is a place where time slows—where books line the walls, the scent of aged teak lingers in the air, and mornings begin with the distant call of fishermen setting out to sea.

Designed for exclusivity, Writer’s Lodge by Ishq is as much a sanctuary as it is a gateway to the fort’s rich history. Landmarks like the Dutch Reformed Church and Galle Lighthouse are a short stroll away, while nearby cafés and galleries invite unhurried exploration. Yet within the villa’s quiet embrace, there is a sense of retreat – a place to pause, reflect, and, perhaps, put pen to paper.

The lodge’s design is a delicate balance of heritage and restraint. High ceilings and vintage furnishings echo the colonial past, while soft linen drapes and warm lighting lend a sense of intimacy. One suite is appointed with a queen-sized bed and an ensuite bathroom, while the other features a queen-sized bed with a detached bathroom, offering a quiet refuge after a day of discovery. A fully equipped kitchen allows guests the freedom to create their own meals, though the flavours of Galle’s culinary scene – from Sri Lankan seafood feasts to European-inspired fine dining – are never far away.

For those who wish to explore beyond the fort, the southern coast of Sri Lanka offers endless diversions. A short drive leads to Unawatuna Beach, where golden sands meet turquoise waters, or to Koggala Lake, where boat safaris wind past tiny islands and cinnamon plantations. Further afield, Mirissa beckons with its seasonal whale-watching excursions, while the lesser-known Dalawella Beach remains a haven for those seeking a quieter stretch of coast.

Yet it is within Galle Fort that the true magic remains. In the evenings, as the sky turns to amber and the fort’s ramparts glow under lantern light, Writer’s Lodge by Ishq becomes part of the town’s living history – a quiet refuge for those who appreciate the beauty of stillness in an ever-moving world.

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