Mount Lavinia Hotel Celebrates 220 Years of Love.

Mount Lavinia Hotel, Sri Lanka’s most iconic destination for romance, hosted an interactive briefing on December 30, 2024, to mark a significant milestone in its history, “220 years of Love.” This year-long celebration commemorates the hotel’s deep roots in Sri Lanka’s romantic heritage, beginning with the legendary love story of Sir Thomas Maitland and Lovina in 1805. The event featured insights from three esteemed panellists: Sanath Ukwatte, Chairman of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group; Anura Dewapura, Chief Operating Officer of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group; and Ranga de Fonseka, Assistant Vice President of Merchant Business & Promotions at Nations Trust Bank. The discussion provided a platform for both historical reflection and contemporary perspectives on the hotel’s ongoing legacy as a romantic destination.

Sanath Ukwatte, Chairman of Mount Lavinia Hotel Group, captivated the audience with the tale of Sir Thomas Maitland, the British Governor of Ceylon, who fell in love with Lovina, a local beauty, upon his arrival in 1805. Their love story and the eventual conversion of the Governor’s Mansion into a hotel have cemented Mount Lavinia Hotel as a premier destination for couples seeking romance. Over the decades, it has become an iconic location for weddings, romantic getaways, and anniversary celebrations, attracting couples from across Sri Lanka and around the world.

Anura Dewapura, COO of Mount Lavinia Hotel, shared the hotel’s vision for creating exceptional romantic experiences. “Unlike any other hotel, Mount Lavinia Hotel offers not only the Paradise Beach but also a rich history and unique character that sets us apart as a true symbol of romance. Celebrating 220 years of love is about cherishing our legacy while also looking forward to creating unforgettable memories for future generations of couples,” Dewapura stated.

To mark this special anniversary, the hotel is offering a 20% discount on wedding bookings made in 2025. Mount Lavinia Hotel also unveiled new wedding menus designed to provide exceptional value while maintaining the highest standards of quality and elegance. These offerings include specialized Hindu and Islamic wedding packages, ensuring inclusivity for diverse cultural and culinary preferences. Led by Shamal Weerabahu, Director of Catering, Events, and Banquet Operations, and Hareendra Hangawatte, Assistant Director of Catering, the catering team is committed to making every couple’s wedding vision a reality.

To make the dream wedding more accessible, Mount Lavinia Hotel has partnered with NTB Amex Cards. Ranga de Fonseka explained, “We are thrilled to partner with Mount Lavinia Hotel to provide a 0% interest, easy instalment payment facility for weddings booked at the hotel. With the ability to pay in 12-month instalments, we hope to ease the financial planning for couples and allow them to focus on enjoying their special day.” This collaboration ensures couples can enjoy Mount Lavinia’s exceptional offerings without financial strain, enhancing convenience and affordability.

The 220th anniversary celebrations will continue throughout 2025, featuring romantic experiences and promotions designed to create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a wedding, anniversary, or special date night, Mount Lavinia Hotel remains a cherished landmark in Sri Lanka’s romantic history.

In 1805, Sir Thomas Maitland, the British Governor of Ceylon, arrived on the island and quickly fell in love with Lovina Aponsuwa, a mestizo dancer of Portuguese and Sinhalese descent. Lovina’s beauty and grace enchanted Maitland, and their romance blossomed in secret within the mansion he constructed. Despite their love, societal norms and colonial expectations forced them to part ways. Maitland’s departure marked the end of their affair, but he immortalized Lovina by naming his mansion “Mount Lavinia” in her honour. Today, the mansion stands as Mount Lavinia Hotel, a tribute to their love and a symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural history.

After Maitland’s departure, the mansion evolved under subsequent British Governors:

• Sir Robert Brownrigg (1812–1820): Enhanced the mansion’s gardens and living spaces, making it a centre for formal gatherings.
• Sir Edward Paget (1822–1828): Added architectural features, including a grand staircase and improved accessibility.
• Sir Edward Barnes (1828–1835): Oversaw significant expansions, transforming the mansion into a grand colonial estate with sweeping views of the coastline.

By the 20th century, the mansion had become a hotel, blending colonial heritage with modern hospitality. Mount Lavinia Hotel continues to stand as a testament to love, history, and elegance, offering guests a timeless escape filled with romance and charm.