The Best Luxury Hotels in Kerala

Kottayam (Kerala)

Overlooking the picturesque Vembanad Lake this property enjoys an enviable position. Eighteen verdant acres are connected by shady walkways, gullies and streams whilst colourful cottages are decorated in a Portuguese style. Plus there's the JIVA spa, and Regional and International cuisine.

• Families - With plenty of on site activities, kids club, plus family villas this is a great place to take the little ones.
• Romantic Break - Secluded villas, some with private pools, make this a great stay for couples.
• Birdwatching - The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located just next door to the property.
• Lakeside - Overlooking Vembanad Lake.

Kottayam (Athikkalam, Kottayam, Kerala)

The Zuri is all about pampering yourself at the Maya spa. With an extensive wellness menu, fitness centre and detox packages - leave feeling completely rejuvenated. Surrounding a peaceful lagoon there are international dining options and on site activities. Modern rooms enjoy Vembanad Lake views.

• Spa breaks - The Maya spa is one of the largest in South India and includes Ayurvedic, Chinese and Western treatments.
• Romantic Break - Couples treatment room, pool villas and romantic private boat trips. Ideal for just the two of you.
• Fishing - Catch yourself a fish (lobster, shrimp or mussel) supper.
• Birdwatching - The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is just a short drive away.

Thekkady (Kerala)

An exotic gateway to the verdant Western Ghats Shalimar Spice Garden provides chic interiors to its discerning guests. Cottages are a blend of modern lines, traditional artworks and locally sourced materials and include private terraces with hammocks. There are two restaurants serving fusion dishes.

• Back to Nature - Surrounded by Thekkady's verdant spice plantations you are ensconced by nature.
• Great walks - Set off on a morning nature trek in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Spa
• Restaurant

Kerala (Mararikulam)

A luxurious oasis within its own grounds on a long stretch of beautiful beach. Guests (mostly couples) are given their own independent cottages with lots of private space indoors and out and treated to professional and discreet service.

• Birdwatching - Superb birdwatching in the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
• Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Vaikom Mahadeva Temple.
• On the beach
• Swimming Pool

Kerala (Northern Kerala)

The first of its kind in North Kerala, Neeleshwar is leading by example. Located on an isolated stretch of beach and comprising nineteen thatched cottages featuring private terraces, outdoor showers and local artwork. A wellness property, there is an Ayurvedic spa, yoga, meditation and a pool.

• Sights nearby - Bekal Fort makes for a historically interesting and architecturally impressive day out.
• Cooking classes - Learn the secrets of Kerala's famed cuisine.
• Spa
• Restaurant

Kochi (India)

Le Colonial is rich in history and strong on heritage. Packed with antiques and walls covered in original art, rooms are spacious with ornate four posters, bright silks and hand woven rugs. There is a small garden with inviting pool plus it is metres from Kochi's sights.

• Sailing - A day or overnight trip along Kerala's famous backwaters is a must.
• Sights nearby - Just 25m from the Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church.
• Restaurant
• Great walks

Kovalam (Kerala)

A fine offering from a firm Indian favourite. Opulent modern interiors with eye-ogling views, its own private beach and infinity pool. Rooms feature balconies and contemporary interiors. Choose from several romantic dining settings from grilled seafood at The Tides or poolside dining at The Terrace.

• Sailing - The hotel concierge will be happy to help arrange a day or overnight trip along the backwaters.
• Sights nearby - The nearby mosque, located on Samudra beach, is an atmospheric visit around sunset.
• Tennis - There are tennis courts on sight for guests to use free of charge.
• Great walks - Along your very own slice of private beach.

Kerala (Kerala)

Built in 2003 by Florentine architect Maria Fernhof this is a modern boutique hotel yet filled with antiques. Modern art covers the walls and relaxing verandahs benefit from garden and lake views. Fresh Keralan dishes are served al-fresco, weather permitting. There is a pleasant pool and spa.

• Birdwatching - The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary has a variety of local and migratory birds.
• Cooking classes - Pop in to the kitchen and get a lesson on Indian spices from the chef.
• Restaurant - Lunch and dinner available on request.
• Lakeside - Overlooking Lake Vembanad.

Kovalam (Kovalam )

Properties of such aesthetic delight are rare. Inspired by the Kettivallam houseboats this luxurious Taj hotel provides stunning interiors with a private terrace as standard and some with private pool. There is an indulgent Ayurvedic spa, huge pool and al fresco dining. A simply superb stay.

• Sights nearby - Ten minutes walk from Padmanabhapuram Palace, Kovalam.
• Fishing - Sea fishing trips can be organised by the hotel.
• Great walks - Kovalam Beach is just 500m walk away.
• Spa

Kochi (India)

All 26 rooms enjoy unobstructed harbour views and are decorated with capacious four posters, antique rattan furnishings and white bathroom suites with dark wood shutters. Excellent dining options include The History restaurant, The Terrace and The Armoury Bar as well as high tea at Quadrangle.

• Great walks - Speak to the team about joining one of the hotel's informative group walking tours, offering a real insight into life in Kochi
• City Style - Achingly smart interiors with a classic CGH Earth attention to detail and careful restoration make this a design haven
• Local exploring - Occupying a prime position in this historic town, the hotel is within walking distance from many of its sights.
• Learning - Dleve into Kerala's rich oral and dance tradition at the fascinating Keralan Folklore Museum

Kerala (Kerala)

In close proximity to Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary this property offers stylish and unusual treetop accommodation. All rooms are spacious with modern bathrooms, large windows with panoramic views. There is a pool and media room to keep the kids busy. The cosy restaurant serves fusion cuisine.

• Back to Nature - The treehouse rooms in particular feel as though you are the only people for miles around.
• Great walks - There are many beautiful walks leading directly from the hotel.
• Birdwatching - The Parambikulam Dam attracts a colourful crowd of birdlife.
• Hideaway - This tranquil abode is perfect for nestling and relaxing.

Kottayam (Kottayam)

A blissful Keralan resort sitting by a serene lake. Traditionally inspired villas are set beside a river-style swimming pool with doors opening directly onto the water. Teak wooden floors, beamed ceilings and local furniture gives a luxurious air, as do the outdoor bathrooms. A fabulous stay.

• Hideaway - A tranquil retreat set alongside a picturesque lake in sleepy Kerala.
• Cooking classes - Learn how to make traditional dishes with the hotel chef.
• Sailing - Cruise along the backwaters on a traditional rice boat.
• Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool

Kottayam (Kerala)

Accessible via a small canal this property is located right on the water. Cottages are scattered around the grounds of this former coconut plantation, each with private terraces, sitting rooms whilst the bungalows and villas have their own pools. There is an indulgent pool and Ayurvedic spa for all.

• Cooking classes - Coconut Lagoon is famed for its cuisine - learn their secrets with a private lesson from the chef.
• Kayaking - Right on the edge of the Vembanad Lake you can hop straight into a kayak and hit the water.
• Fishing - Head out on the hotel boat and catch a fish supper.
• Sights nearby - Cochin is a 45km drive but well worth a visit.