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Misty mountainside and cup of hot coffee—that is the charm of Coorg, Karnataka’s favourite hill station. Home to the Kodava community, the region is a literal breath of fresh air from the hustle bustle of city life.
To best enjoy Coorg, here are eight hotels and homestays that you must consider
1. Ayatana
One of Coorg’s newest luxury retreats, Ayatana allows you to reconnect with nature. Spread over 100 acres, the genesis of this resort was a collaboration between Ayatana studios and landscape architect and biologist, Paul Blanchflower. The key objective was to reduce the impact on the natural landscape. The heartbeat of this resort is a dramatic waterfall; not many resorts in India can boast of a waterfall within the extent of their property. You can hear this thunderous waterfall from most of the rooms and gaze at it from the all-day diner and the bar.
You might be tempted to lounge in the large private balconies – a distinct feature in most suites and cottages, with sweeping views of the lush green foliage. The Glasshouse, the resort’s all-day diner showcases local signatures while The Bar offers local-inspired cocktails and an array of sharing plates.
2. Ama Stays and Trails
Tata Coffee has transformed eight of its colonial-era plantation bungalows into exquisite luxury accommodation options. Once homes of British coffee estate managers these well-appointed bungalows also come with efficient service crews that take you back in time and allow you to experience the planter’s lifestyle. From high ceilings, large bathrooms and four-poster beds all the remnants of the British Raj live on in these bungalows. The bean to cup coffee tours and the birdwatching tours set this experience apart.
3. The Bungalow 1934
A hill-top with a view, a heritage bungalow decorated in traditional Kodagu-style architecture. This bungalow typifies Coorg’s multiple homestay options that offer an intimate local experience. Traditional artefacts and the owner’s effects lend a personal warmth to this homestay. The Bungalow 1934 organises local-themed meals, local trails and sightseeing
4. Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa
The temperature-controlled pool at the Taj Madikeri is one of the most ‘Instagrammed’ spots in Coorg. Located in the midst of a rainforest, the resort is home to more than 200 species of plants including rudraksha trees, wild jasmine and eucalyptus. Local architectural elements like tall pillars and sloping roofs dominate the design language while the 30,000 sq. ft Jiva Spa is probably the most decadent in Coorg. The 130-sq metre large premium villas with 360-degree views are our favourite accommodation option here.
5. The Tamara Coorg
The Tamara Coorg merges almost seamlessly with the sloping lush terrain with stunning views from most of its luxurious cottages. Two waterfall streams cut through the resort adding another element of drama. The resort’s steep gradient makes it off limits for children under twelve ensuring more privacy and calm. The 180-acre resort features 56 cottage-style villas built on stilts on the face of the hills to provide a majestic view of the Coorg valley.
6. Saffron Stays Calamondinn Bungalow
This 6000 sq. ft. heritage villa dates back to the 1890s. You can book the entire cottage – perfect for a group travelling in a bubble, or just pick one of the four rooms. The villa is a throwback to the colonial plantation days with landscaped gardens and a well-stocked library. Experience a slice of Coorg as you walk through a working plantation or the thriving local industry of beekeeping – Coorg honey is legendary.
7. Forestvalley Tree House
One of Coorg’s most charming Airbnb listings, this cottage is just 2.5km away from Madikeri town. The structure is built completely with Red Cedar Wood and is 32ft above the ground level, in the lap of nature. You’re surrounded by coffee plants and a calming stream.
8. Evolve Back Chikkana Halli Estate
The Heritage Pool Villa at Evolve Back is one of Coorg’s most romantic hideouts. There’s an en-suite bedroom, personal swimming pool with deck chairs and two cosy sit-outs. This property is spread over 300 acres in a coffee and spice plantation with Kodava architectural elements.
Photo: The Tamara, Coorg; Respective brands