Highly Recommended

Serenity, Kanam

Serenity is situated midway between Cochin and Thekkady, in the foothills of the Western Gats, making it the ideal stopover en route or a destination in its own right.

This wonderful 1920's Heritage estate house has been beautifully restored and is decorated entirely in keeping with its colonial past. The incredibly friendly and accommodating staff will make your stay effortless and extremely comfortable. The timber and panelling through the property are exquisite and the warm peach and turquoise colours that dominate the interiors blend perfectly with the profusion of colonial furniture. Sitting on a hilltop, the views over the Blue Mountains of the Western Ghats are breathtaking and the surrounding rubber plantation provides a very tropical feel.

With just 5 rooms, 3 doubles and 2 twins each each with private shower, it is always peaceful and there is little to disturb you except for the sounds of nature. The hotel has a lovely swimming-pool set in the peaceful gardens with pleasant decking and comfortable chairs for lolling and reading. The food is delicious and the resident chef will discuss and design the menu around your personal preferences using fresh local produce. Of particular note are the house curries and delicious Indian style breakfasts. The estate grows its own vegetables and the tropical environment produces delicious variety of fresh fruits.

Activities:
Activities on the estate and nearby spice plantations include walking with and riding an elephant or trips in Ox carts The encounter with the world's biggest land mammal is relaxed and totally noncommercial as is a mornings guided walk through the rubber, cocoa, coffee, pepper,cardamom, pineapple, tapioca, papaya and banana plantations. Sometimes this may be done on Lakshimi's, the elephants, back, followed by a picnic and return via one of the logging trails to the river where you can help the Mahout bath his charge. Birdwatching and mountain bikes are available as are private cultural and historical day trips which might include a visit to the Shiva Temple to see the frescoes or the nearby orchid nurseries. Finally you can also enjoy massages in the small Ayurvedic treatment spa and gym on the property.

This boutique hotel has excellent food, service and is a very relaxing and comfortable place to stay.