With spectacular Indian Ocean views, diverse onsite dining and a stylish rooftop bar, this seaside sanctuary offers the perfect blend of culture and comfort.
When I arrive at Radisson Blu Resort Galle, after a scenic yet sweaty train journey from Colombo, I’m ready for a little luxury. I’m welcomed by some of the biggest smiles I’ve ever seen, as well as a much-needed cold towel and fresh apple juice, served in a coconut cup – island life has begun!
What’s the neighbourhood like?
Sri Lanka’s southwestern coastline is renowned for its palm-fringed, white-sand beaches and the serene patch of shore occupied by Radisson Blu Resort Galle is no exception. Nestled between surf beaches, Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa, this modern seaside resort is just 10 minutes' drive from the historic town of Galle. Its slightly secluded location makes for a truly serene escape – I quickly discover it’s the perfect place to unwind after days exploring bustling markets, hilltop temples and historic forts.
Where am I sleeping?
My Deluxe Sea View room lives up to its name. A glass-fronted balcony offers breathtaking views over the resort pool and Indian Ocean beyond. It’s the perfect place to sip a morning coffee and soak up the sights, sounds and smells of the ocean, albeit with a little pool noise in the foreground. Inside, the room is calm, cool (a must in this climate) and quiet, with a heavenly king bed for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Arguably, the real star of this room is the rain shower, whose pressure can only be likened to that of a waterfall after torrential rain. In other words, absolute perfection! The spacious ensuite also includes a wardrobe with plenty of hanging space and a baggage storage area, which allows me to spread out while keeping the room tidy.
Those who prefer a higher floor can upgrade to a Premium Sea View room or Junior Suite, both offering comfortable designs and superior ocean views. At 95m2, the Sea View Suite is a jewel in the resort’s crown, boasting a sun-soaked terrace, separate lounge area and deep-soaking bathtub for total relaxation.
Both Deluxe and Premium Sea View Rooms are available as interconnecting rooms, while up to two children (11 years and under) can stay free of charge in both Junior and Sea View Suites.
What's on the menu?
With four onsite restaurants, the dining options here are varied and delicious. Each morning, the poolside bistro Fusion hosts an impressive buffet spread of local and international favourites. I will admit, a little ‘wow’ slips out of my mouth as the maître d guides me through each section of the buffet. As a coeliac, I have to pull myself away from flaky croissants, loaves of sourdough and the doughnut wall (yes, there is a doughnut wall) and stick to freshly cooked eggs on gluten-free toast, cheese, meats, tropical fruit and yoghurt. It’s always a concern travelling with a food intolerance, but the resort breakfast certainly puts my mind at ease. Classic Sri Lankan dishes, including egg hoppers (rice flour and coconut milk crepes cooked in a bowl shape with a fried egg in the bottom), are also available and cooked to order should you wish to start your day the local way.
Throughout the day, an a la carte lunch menu is available at Fusion, while light meals are served in poolside cabanas or lounges at The Bay. If you’re after a break from local flavours, Sforno Poolside Trattoria offers a small selection of pizzas and flatbreads while ORU Seafood Restaurant serves up the local catch from an enviable spot by the beach.
And how about drinks?
The resort’s sparkling pool, often warm from the sun, surrounds a small bar that offers a selection of local beer, spirits and cocktails. ‘Sip, dip, repeat’ is the right approach here! As dusk falls, head to Bommu Rooftop Bar for a cocktail while you watch the sunset light up the sky in a blaze of colour. Of course, if you’re having trouble leaving the comfort of your room, an extensive in-room dining menu is available around the clock.
What are the facilities like?
It doesn’t take long for the outdoor pool to become my go-to spot. Surrounded by plush poolside cabanas draped in sheer white curtains, these are the ultimate place to laze by the sun-drenched pool. The best part? There are 10 available, and you never have to wait for one.
The poolside area opens onto a lush, ocean-facing garden. A combination of strong currents and big rocks means swimming isn’t possible here, but a walk along the beach is an invigorating way to start or finish your day. Daily resort activities, including beach volleyball, are also held. And speaking of invigoration, the resort offers a full-service day spa with treatments to pamper you from head to toe – literally.
What sets the resort apart?
Radisson Blue Resort Galle offers a comfortable stay, but what really sets it apart is the staff. Almost every member of the team I encountered during my three-day stay greeted me with a big smile, and often an enquiry about whether I was enjoying my stay. Discreet housekeeping service kept my room fresh and clean, while pool towels were delivered to my cabana by friendly staff members before I could even drop my bag. It’s first-class service like this that would see me return to the resort.
Who will love Radisson Blu Resort Galle?
If you’re looking for a well-located sanctuary from which to explore the gems of southwest Sri Lanka, Radisson Blu Resort Galle is an excellent option. Daily dining fuels you for days of adventure and nightly cocktails are perfect for toasting new memories, while poolside cabanas are a luxe choice during days spent by the pool.
Families will also love the resort, with interconnecting rooms allowing just the right amount of privacy, a stimulating kids' club to keep the little ones engaged throughout the day and a dedicated children’s menu served in a decorated kid-friendly dining area at Fusion.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Explore The Six Best Beaches in Sri Lanka.
The writer was a guest of Radisson Blu Resort Galle.
