Neeleshwar Hermitage Resort,
Northern Kerala

This is a serene hidden tropical beach retreat hotel set in 12 acres of palm groves on a quiet golden beach on the north Malabar coast, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Individual cottages are set amongst the palms just back from the beach, and a huge infinity pool overlooking the sea is a lovely place to cool off. At the chilled out Meenakshi beach restaurant, with its bright local table linens, you can enjoy long leisurely breakfasts, refreshing lunchtime salads and easy dinners – overlooking the golden beach, the sea and the lagoon. The fresh seafood dinner menu is just delicious. The Annapurna vegetarian restaurant set in a beautiful open air wooden Kerala style building serves the most amazing fare –and the okra curry is to die for.

The 18 spacious, comfortable and tastefully appointed private cottages, built in local laterite stone and palm leaf thatch, are modelled on traditional fishermen’s huts, with either pool, sea or garden views. They all have the same facilities yet possess their own unique character, with fan cooled raised verandahs, and bathrooms with a small garden courtyard and great showers.

Activities include bike riding, visiting the Bekal Fort, swimming in the sea, walks along the beach, yoga, cooking classes and the Ayurvedic Wellness Centre.

If you’re looking for a restorative, understated and serenely authentic stay, then look no further than Neeleshwar Hermitage.

To also experience the ultimate in relaxation, then book a night, or two if you can, on the elegant and stylish Lotus Houseboat, a converted Keralan ricebarge  – and discover the serenity of the vast peaceful backwaters and observe village life as you go.  There are 2 spacious and airy bedrooms (with airconditioning), each with a private sit out and modern ensuite bathrooms, a lovely sundeck with sun loungers and an alfresco dining area, and an indoor sitting room and dining area on the main deck.  The staff, the service and the houseboat itself are just amazing  – simply not to be missed.

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