Writer’s Lodge by Ishq.

A bijou villa at the heart of Galle Fort, Writer’s Lodge by Ishq is made for slow stays.

Scene.

Tucked away in a quiet laneway, Writer’s Lodge by Ishq offers the authentic Galle Fort experience. Neighbours are local households—think women in colourful saris shepherding children to and from school—and smart shops like 1873 Gallery, taking its name from the year the British built Main Gate, just minutes away.

A great spot to climb the ramparts, built by the Portuguese in the 1500s and added to by the Dutch from 1640s onwards. As evening falls, join young lovers, families and novice Buddhist monks for the evening promenade to Flag Rock Bastion, facing west for dazzling sunsets. The lodge is close but not too close to the action, with the Fort’s bevy of boutiques, restaurants and cafes a five-minute walk away.

Style.

This heritage bolthole in Dutch colonial style features whitewashed walls, timber ceilings and antique terracotta tiles, a palette that later inspired architect Geoffrey Bawa. A skylight punches natural light into the space, while darker, moodier corners offer welcome respite from the sun-drenched climate outside. Classic wooden furniture gives the interior a colonial feel, softened by indoor palms, vintage photographic prints in gilded frames, paisley cushions and soft, layered lighting.

Story.

The building’s character and setting suggest origins in the late 18th or early 19th century, typical of Dutch- and British-era properties within the fort. It was acquired by the Yusoof family, owners of Ishq Luxury Villas, in 2021. Entrepreneur Hanif Yusoof founded Expolanka Holdings, whose logistics arm is one of the world’s leading freight forwarding companies.

Ishq, derived from Sufism and translating as ‘divine love’, is more of a passion project—an expression of the family’s philosophy of hospitality and their belief in welcoming travellers as they would guests in their own home. Following a year-long, top-to-toe restoration, Writer’s Lodge opened in January 2025, joining Ishq’s portfolio of properties in Colombo and Talpe, as well as Highgrove Estate, near Nuwara Eliya.

Suites.

Carved-timber four-poster beds anchor the lodge’s two bedrooms, with colonial-style armoires and shapely plantation armchairs. The front bedroom (17m2) is en-suite, while the rear bedroom (15m2) accesses the main bathroom, nearby. Both rooms come with dreamy pillows and luxurious bed linen, bath robes, ceiling fans and air conditioning.

Spaces.

True to its name, Writer’s Lodge features a rolltop desk and wall of bookshelves in the living room, alongside a modern sofa and carved-timber armchairs. There’s a bluetooth speaker and great wifi throughout the house. The dining room is open plan to a contemporary kitchen, fully equipped with electric oven, gas hob, fridge, microwave, Nespresso machine, glassware, crockery and cutlery. Best of all—after three weeks on the road—the laundry lies just beyond.

While there’s no outdoor space, with Galle Fort as your backyard and the Indian Ocean a two-minute walk away, who needs it. Morning walks along Lighthouse Street deliver coffee and shopping, including Barefoot Gallery, founded by textile designer Barbara Sansoni, with its small but excellent selection of Sri Lanka-centric literature as well as the vibrant, handwoven fabrics favoured by Geoffrey Bawa. Drop into Galle Library (1832), the oldest public library in Sri Lanka, followed by lunch beneath frangipani and avocado trees in the courtyard of 1710 The Merchant. Or stroll along the ramparts to Galle Lighthouse, built by the British in the 1930’s. As the sun sets, score a table on Malu’s tiny balcony, for a cocktail, perfect seafood and panoramic views.

Sustainability.

All properties in the Ishq portfolio have eliminated single use plastic, reflecting a commitment to mindful, responsible hospitality.

Service.

A dedicated staff member meets you at the property upon arrival and departure, ensuring a seamless experience, and remains available on Whatsapp throughout the stay.

Spend.

USD450 per night for up to four guests, villa-only basis, including taxes.

To book your stay at Writer’s Lodge by Ishq, go to ishqvillas.com.

Photography: courtesy of Ishq Villas.