Luxury Holidays in Mount Lavinia

Historic settlement on golden sands

Set on its famous “Golden Mile” of beach just 12km south of Colombo, Mount Lavinia offers a glimpse back to the colonial era.

The elegant Mount Lavinia Hotel, perched on a rocky outcrop, hides the secrets of one of Ceylon’s more enduring love stories. It was here that English governor Sir Thomas Maitland fell in love with a local girl, Lovina, and began seeing her in secret. Out of patriotic duty, he later left the enchanted island, returning to Europe to live out his days as a lonely bachelor.

Modern day lovers of all persuasions will find a more tolerant atmosphere, with some of the most laidback nightlife in the country. The sailing and watersports facilities here are excellent.