subject: Galle Face Green - Discover Sri Lankas Premier Beachside Promenade [print this page] Spread out across an expansive area of 5 hectares in the heart of Sri Lanka's business and touristic heartland lies what is perhaps the most iconic leisure hub in the entire island nation. Established during the colonial era by then Governor of Ceylon, Sir Henry Ward, this 500m long promenade is as popular today as it was when it first opened to the public, back in 1859. Dubbed the Colpetty Race Course, the Gall Face Green of yore served as a verdant playground for Colombo's colonial heads as the nation's premier horse racing track and golf course although in its present role the strip of green that lies between the Indian Ocean and Galle Road, serves as a Mecca for family fun and leisure activities.
Declared the largest open venue in the Sri Lankan commercial capital, this breathtaking strip of coastline is a frequent stopover for visitors and locals alike as it serves as a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan capital. Ranked as one of the most romantic venues in the island nation the Galle Face Green is abuzz with visitors all year long. From kite flyers who make the most of the windy conditions in the venue to frolicking teens, young lovers and families on picnic, the locale is also a hotbed for sports enthusiasts and day trippers who engage in the pastimes of their choice at the verdant space.
Surrounded by some of the country's most prestigious five star hotels, the Galle Face Green is also a popular joggers hub as one can also go for a brisk walk while taking in the ocean breeze and the open sky on any given morning or night. Ice cream vendors and snack stalls are open throughout the day alongside the promenade for added convenience, while food vendors serving delicious local treats such as Prawn Wade (Isso Wade) rotties, naan and curries are a common site during weekends.
As the host of many a red-letter event the Galle Face Green most recently played host to the Red Bull X Fighters, a motorcycle stunt event that attracted more than 100,000 spectators to the locale.
Travellers in search of a top-notch Colombo hotel within easy reach of Galle Face Green, can stay at Cinnamon Lakeside for the duration of their holiday. Ranked among the best luxury accommodation Colombo has to offer this breathtaking establishment by the water pulls out all the stops when it comes to vacationing in Sri Lanka's glittering commercial capital.
