Neeleshwar Hermitage

Relax and luxuriate at the Priya Spa, which offers a range of Ayurvedic and western treatments. Soak in the tranquil pool surrounded by comfy loungers and with a sea view to boot. Lunchtime at Neeleshwar can be enjoyed at Meenakshi, a beachside spot that serves freshly-caught seafood and dinner at Annapurna is an elegant, candlelit affair with dishes inspired by Ayurvedic teaching. It's also where you'll find the first bar and the second is Varuna, where you can sip on a cocktail overlooking the pool.

Each named after a unique yogic virtue, Neeleshwar's 18 cottages come with laterite stone and wooden walls under a thatched roof. With original artwork and antique decor, the cottages have a private veranda, minimalist lounge and double bed dotted with jewel-bright cushions. The views range from garden to sea and some rooms also come with a private pool. The rustic en-suite bathrooms quite soothing with an open-air courtyard and rain shower - plus, the pool cottage has a sunken bath.

Apart from enjoying the spoils of Neeleshwar's lovely beach (kept clean by the staff), enjoy a cruise through Kerala's backwaters on the Lotus Houseboat or a spot of birdwatching - with a tasty picnic in hand! Pass ornate temples on a cycle through the lanes (plus a drink of fresh toddy) or head out on a plantation tour where you'll stroll through fields of pepper vines, visit man-made caves built in the hillside and see the glorious monsoon waterfalls.