Serene Pavilions, a new venture in luxury hospitality located in Wadduwa on Sri Lanka’s west coast, has joined the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand.

Opened at a cost of $US5.5 million in November 2009, Serene Pavilions is a beachside retreat offering 12 lavishly appointed Pavilions with private Butler service set in a seven acre coconut grove facing the Indian Ocean, just a 45-minute drive from Colombo. According to the Chairman of Serene Pavilions, Clive Leach CBE: “The hotel offers an ideal Sri Lankan holiday experience for those seeking luxury, seclusion, tranquillity and exceptional service.”

Serene Pavilions Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive, Anura Lokuhetty, said: “Becoming a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World will provide Serene Pavilions and Sri Lanka with added worldwide exposure to independent travellers who enjoy highly personalised service, combined with accommodation designed to exacting international standards which also reflects the local history and culture.”

The luxurious Pavilions, each with individual private plunge pools, have been designed with an emphasis on space and tranquillity using Balinese and Sri Lankan influences and architecture. The 12 pavilions are interlaced with walkways and water features and have spacious decked outside living areas.

Serene Pavilions’ signature centrepiece is The Pavilions’ Restaurant, and The Amritha Bar, which links the garden and pool areas to the beachfront gardens and quiet beach. Within the gardens there is a large swimming pool with four sunken Jacuzzi beds, and a clay tennis court. Also available is the Serenity Spa, the well-equipped Asana Gym and a large Reception Lounge with an exclusive Gem Boutique. The Dhaarana Reading Room is home to the library which can also accommodate small meetings or private events.

Paul Kerr, Chief Executive Officer of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Serene Pavilions into the Small Luxury Hotels of the World family. I know that our discerning guests will enjoy the peace and tranquility at the resort – as well as the high levels of privacy. Each hotel applying to become part of SLH undergoes a rigorous inspection and selection process and only five percent of the hotels which apply to join are accepted. This is testament to the high standards of excellence to be found at Serene Pavilions. It is the perfect complement to Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s properties in Sri Lanka.”