There is a villa in Lavinia where lemongrass perfumes the air and the atmosphere is always intimate and relaxing.
Words Nawya Ponnamperuma Photographs Isuru Upeksha
During festive days, the road to The Villa In Lavinia glimmers with millions of tiny lights, seemingly in competiton with the tropical starry sky. Strands of fairy lights are pulled across the road throughout the month of May, creating a breathtaking spectacle for any one who walks down the street, especially the guests at The Villa.
Homeliness, friendly staff and an informal atmosphere, along with modern amenities, are trademarks of The Villa In Lavinia.
Granite floor tiles, pure white walls and white ceilings present an air of modernity, while fresh flowers keep things cozy. Pictures of old Ceylon hang in hallways and on staircases, and books scattered across coffee tables invite guests to unwind and rewind into history.
Once a home, now a hotel, The Villa’s two family rooms and eight doubles boast televisions, air conditioning, mini fridges and en suite bathrooms. All rooms come with a private balcony or terrace – perfect for relaxing with friends and family, and creating memories.
The pool shimmers under the shady trees by day and is lit up by night. Music is often heard echoing through the halls and terraces of the hotel, ensuring that guests in search of entertainment need not wander far from the premises. For those who seek more varied diversions, Mount Lavinia Beach, Sri Lanka’s city beach, is just a few steps away. With watersports on offer and plenty of restaurants, the area thumps with energy from twilight till after dark.
Medicinal trees are planted all around The Villa, keeping it cool on even the warmest of days. The Villa’s temple tree, laden with pink blossoms, adds instant colour and character to the gardens, making this affordable establishment a favourite amongst visitors on all budgets.
The Villa operates on a bed and breakfast basis but the accommodating staff will cook up scrumptious meals at guests’ request. The management will arrange tours of the Island too, and The Villa can be rented in its entirety for special occasions.
Initially, the concept of The Villa In Lavinia was to open a property that offered stylish décor, quality service and an affordable stay. They’ve achieved all this in less than two years after opening thanks to a straightforward system of management – it’s all run by just one person, meaning that plans can be put into action and problems are solved very efficiently. Furthermore, the convenient booking system – either online, on the phone or on the spot – lets guests organise a stress-free holiday.
Although the road to The Villa In Lavinia may be a bumpy one, once you’ve arrived, it is a soothing experience. Staying true to itself, a stay at the hotel is a hands-on experience, which lets its guests encounter real-life in its truest setting.
26/3 Sri Dharmapala Mawatha,
Mount Lavinia
Tel: (+94 11) 273 7879
thevillainlavinia@gmail.com
thevillainlavinia.com
