Marari Villas, Marari, Kerala, India - Explore & Book
"Before falling in love with this beautiful corner of Kerala, Rupert and Olga (an English-Russian couple) searched every inch of southwest India’s golden coast from Mumbai down to Trivandrum. They were looking for their dream beach: a mile or so of pristine white sands, fringed with cool shady coconut groves and more or less empty other than a few local fishermen working the surfy Arabian Sea. And Marari, they discovered, had it all. They currently offer three serviced villas here. The first, Orchid Pool Villa, is a contemporary recreation of an existing thatched bungalow, set beneath the shady palms, within a few minutes' walk of the dreamy beach. The second, Hibiscus Pool Villa, sits alongside Orchid - this they designed and built themselves (Rupert is a trained architect) using the reclaimed framework of a traditional Keralan wooden house. We can't wait to see Frangipani - the third villa - for ourselves. Rupert and Olga's mission is to keep it small but luxurious: with each villa offering a secluded haven - your own living space and your own garden with a pool - which is intimate, close to nature and local culture, and great value. Highs The villas have their own reserved area on Marari beach (300m walk away) All the privacy of a villa, plus room service and a chef to look after you All are homes from home with mod cons, kitchenettes and lots of space Dining by candlelight, on fresh, seasonal Keralan dishes, in your private garden The friendly staff (Olga and Rupert, villa hosts, chefs, housekeepers, and beach attendant) are very much part of the experience Lows Tucked away down narrow back roads, the villas are a little hard to find - an airport pick-up makes it easier Open-to-the-sky bathrooms tend to invite bugs and wildlife - if showering at dusk, use one of the mosquito coils Lunch and dinner aren't included in the rates, but are good value and made just for you!" - Lesley Gillilan
