Windermere River House, River Periyar, Kerala, India - Explore & Book
"In 1989, Kerala gained the nickname 'God’s Own Country', and it is places like Windermere River House and its surrounds that make it incredibly clear why. Located just over an hour from Kochi airport, you take long, winding roads through towering forests which eventually lead to what feels like a secret hideout. This hideout is the second outpost from the family behind famed Windermere Estate in Munnar, but no less special. What's perhaps most striking though is not the grand house and its five, spacious rooms, but the tropical forests, jungle, and flora in which its situated; verdant greens of every shade, in every direction. Days here are peaceful, with meals taken in the riverside restaurant offering tasty, homely and unfussy food, punctuated with either a nature walk nearby, a visit to a bird sanctuary just a little further away, or a short wander from your room via a majestic walkway of shading banana leaves to the pool and back. It’s wilderness and nature in comfy surrounds. This is an essential stop for anyone looking for a serene break on the long road to Munnar, or in search of somewhere different for a few days languishing beside a beautiful pool. Highs The scenery is stunning; with just the river in front of you and sweeping hills in the distance behind, ensconced in jungle and forests. There's little like it in the area The pool is divine; you can easily (and we did) spend hours there The staff are wonderful; attentive to every need with only five rooms to cater to, and very flexible depending on your interests The food was delicious: unfussy and full of flavour Lows There’s no bar on site, but you’re more than welcome to bring your own alcohol There are a tricky set of steps and a long, uneven pathway between the buildings and pool; challenging for those with mobility issues Although comfortable, the property isn’t lavish; we found luxury in the surroundings and serenity, rather than in its fixtures and fittings You’re well and truly in nature, so expect bugs and insects" - Donal Anand Shaw
