Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden Resort & Spa is celebrated for its tranquil setting, nestled within a lush cardamom plantation that offers guests an idyllic escape into nature. Surrounded by the serene ambiance of a jungle, the resort provides spacious and well-designed cottages where visitors can unwind while observing the vibrant jungle life. The eco-friendly environment facilitates relaxation and rejuvenation, complemented by excellent Ayurvedic massages and superb service, all without being too far removed from nearby amenities.
When it comes to dining, the resort offers a generally pleasing experience with its delicious breakfast and dinner selections. The meals, often prepared with ingredients sourced directly from the resort grounds, deliver a fresh culinary adventure in a cozy atmosphere. While breakfast receives mixed reviews, with some finding it limited for a four-star establishment, the attentiveness of the staff and the picturesque setting contribute positively to the experience. Dinner is frequently praised for its taste and quality, despite some desire for a more varied menu.
Accommodations at the resort are noted for their spaciousness and charming design, often complemented by bespoke wooden furniture that exudes old-style elegance. While some elements might seem slightly dated, the rooms remain clean and cozy, providing a restful haven surrounded by the melody of birds and the aroma of spices. Despite occasional issues with cleanliness in certain areas, the high level of service ensures guests feel well cared for during their stay.
The resort's staff are a highlight of the experience, known for their exceptional hospitality and dedication to meeting guests’ needs. Their helpfulness and warm demeanor enhance the overall appeal of the resort, from organizing leisure activities to providing insightful tours of the spice garden.
The spa and wellness facilities are another positive aspect, offering soothing Ayurvedic massages and yoga sessions that deliver relaxation and comfort to guests seeking tranquility. Additionally, the resort features a charming pool area that is praised for its cleanliness and the stunning views it provides, further enriching the serene atmosphere of the retreat.
Overall, Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden Resort & Spa delivers a delightful and peaceful getaway with its beautiful location and attentive service, making it an exceptional destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst nature.
Hills & Hues, nestled high in the Thekkady hills, offers an extraordinary escape characterized by tranquility and breathtaking natural vistas. The hotel is celebrated for its stunning location, which provides panoramic views of the valley and lush greenery, offering a dream-like and picturesque setting right from the accommodations. While reaching this idyllic retreat requires a steep climb, the mesmerizing quietude and spectacular views are worth the effort, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere perfect for those seeking peace away from city life.
Guests frequently praise the hotel for its spacious and tastefully decorated rooms infusing a blend of comfort and luxury, with many enjoying remarkable vistas directly from their accommodations. High cleanliness standards enhance the sense of luxury, with both rooms and the property described as well-maintained and spotless. The dedication to impeccable service is evident in the warm and attentive demeanor of the staff, led by manager Mr. Prabhu, who ensure each guest feels welcomed and valued.
The dining experience at Hills & Hues is another highlight, offering an exquisite combination of Indian and European cuisine. The restaurant is known for its high-standard meals, particularly the biryani, crafted with culinary expertise by Chef Ram. The charming ambience during dinner, complemented by excellent live music and unique cookery demonstrations, enriches every meal. Although the menu could benefit from more variety, the quality of the food and attentive service consistently meet high expectations.
Guests are further delighted by the delightful breakfast experience featuring a mix of Indian and Western options. While some suggest the menu could offer more variety, the breakfast is appreciated for its deliciousness and the beautiful setting in which it is served.
The hotel's infinity pool, offering stunning views and often described as legendary, adds to the overall impressive experience, even if its cool temperature can be less inviting for some. Despite this, the allure of the hotel's atmosphere, scenic beauty, and outstanding hospitality ensure that Hills & Hues leaves a lasting impression as a memorable destination for a peaceful and luxurious getaway.
Spice Village Thekkady - A CGH Earth Experience is renowned for its exceptional location and outstanding service. Nestled near the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the property offers an idyllic setting for nature lovers, seamlessly blending with the lush natural surroundings and featuring well-maintained gardens and an organic farm that underscore its eco-sustainability commitments. While conveniently situated close to the local market, the resort provides a peaceful retreat that combines stunning natural beauty with thoughtful design.
The culinary offerings at Spice Village are a highlight, with breakfast receiving consistent praise for its quality and delightful buffet, including local dishes and an olive menu. Dinner, particularly at the 50 Miles restaurant, offers a feast of flavors with a brilliant selection of Indian and local dishes, although some guests have noted minor inconsistencies in the buffet quality. Nonetheless, the overall dining experience remains memorable and satisfying.
Accommodations at Spice Village are celebrated for their spaciousness and eco-friendly design, with rooms that combine comfort with nature through the use of bamboo, coir, and jute decor. Cleanliness is commendable throughout the property, contributing to a serene and tranquil atmosphere despite minor humidity issues in some areas. The meticulous maintenance ensures a neat, green, and healthy environment.
The staff at Spice Village Thekkady set a high standard for hospitality, consistently leaving guests impressed with their charm, kindness, and friendliness. Their professional demeanor, coupled with extensive knowledge, particularly from the naturalists, enriches the stay. The staff's exceptional care and accommodating nature ensure visitors experience a warm and welcoming environment, making them a standout feature of the resort.
Overall, Spice Village Thekkady - A CGH Earth Experience offers a harmonious blend of stunning natural surroundings, thoughtful design, exceptional culinary choices, comfortable accommodations, and outstanding service, providing a memorable getaway for those seeking a peaceful retreat intertwined with nature.
Summary of reviews related to the '5 Star' category
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Thekkady, The Mountain Courtyard offers a welcoming retreat that stands out against other local options. Guests often highlight the dining experiences as a notable highlight; the culinary offerings are exceptional, promising a delightful taste journey. Despite being advertised as a five-star resort, some visitors feel that the accommodations and services align more closely with a four-star standard. Concerns such as room conditions not meeting pricing expectations and specific operational hours for dining slightly temper the overall experience. However, the resort's ambiance and quality of dining provide a memorable stay, appealing to those seeking tranquility and good food amidst picturesque surroundings.