Luxury Holidays to Mount Lavinia Hotel

Mount Lavinia Hotel

The Mount Lavinia Hotel is close to the Sri Lankan capital city of Colombo, standing in a prominent position with superb views of the coast. With Colombo itself in the distance, it is easy to speculate why Sir Thomas Maitland the former British Governor chose the area for his weekend retreat and as a place to entertain. Originally a colonial house, the majestic Mount Lavinia Hotel stands above the spectacular Sri Lanka coast with its own secluded beach, taking full advantage of the balmy trade winds that sweep in off the Indian Ocean. Passing through the entrance one may be forgiven for feeling as though one has stepped back in time, yet the Mount Lavinia Hotel manages to combine elegance with many modern facilities.

Hotel History

The year was 1806 and Old Ceylon was under the rule of the British crown. Sir Thomas Maitland was leaving the shores of a country he had called home for over six years. He was also leaving behind the woman he loved. Social convention and duty to his King was taking him away from her. But what he did not know, was that he was leaving behind a legacy to their love that would be immortalised. The Mount Lavinia Hotel is built up around the original residence of Sir Thomas Maitland who was the Governor General of Ceylon from 1805-1811. It was at a welcoming party held in his honour on his arrival in the island that he set his eyes upon Lovina whose father was the Headman of the troupe. Sir Thomas was smitten by her smile and charms and soon found himself obsessed by her and taking any measures possible to see more of her. And thus was built, what is now, the Mount Lavinia Hotel. As it was highly unconventional for an unmarried British Officer to be seen associating with a local dancing girl Sir Thomas and his lover met in secret. She was smuggled into his mansion through a secret tunnel that led from her father's well into a wine cellar in the house. Thomas Maitland ultimately left the country (in 1811) for Malta where he lived and died a bachelor. The tunnel was eventually sealed up in 1920 and the Gypsy village that surrounded the mansion gradually became a busy city.

Dining Options at The Mount Lavinia Hotel

Step back in time at the Governor's Restaurant which serves both Western and Eastern dishes.

The Hut Night Club

Tucked away in a corner of the hotel is The Hut a chic nightclub where guests can dance the night away. The Club opens from 9 pm until late and from Wednesdays to Sundays inclusive. A great venue to meet and enjoy the company of fellow guests.