Kochi – Places to Stay

When it comes to places to stay in Kochi, we like the following list because of their locations, services and amenities.

CGH Brunton Boatyard 

Brunton Boatyard is a short walk from Kochi’s Jew Town and the harbour’s fish markets. It wasn’t always here. The CGH (Clean, Green and Healthy) Earth Experience Group of Hotels took an old ship building yard and turned it into this understated white-walled landmark. Because of the architecture, it’s now a quiet refuge on Kochi’s harbour front.

Regarding that architecture, beyond the white-washed walls, you’ll find an interior with chocolate coloured teak beams and door frames. They lend fortitude to the architecture while red clay tiled floors add warmth.

With all that chocolate brown, things could get dark and heavy but the lobby backs onto an inner garden courtyard which brings a cascade of natural light throughout the building. And, as you walk the hallways, you’ll find green potted palms nestle between white archways to keep passages filled with life.

There’s also a delightful pool area. It tucks neatly into a corner of the manicured back lawn and sits adjacent to the ocean.  Also, hammocks and chaises are scattered across the lawn to offer guests a respite from the bustle of the city outside the walls of the resort.

The rooms themselves are airy and spacious with high ceilings and French doors opening onto decks. Furnishings are tasteful reproductions of antiques. One of our favourite pieces is the fully equipped tea and coffee sideboards. The bathrooms are also refreshing with cool white marble. And, guests enjoy organic soaps and lotions from the hotels’ own brand.

General Manager and Executive Chef Manoj Nair oversees the food program. It’s filled with organic seasonal local produce. So, the second floor dining room has an upscale menu featuring the best of that produce. Dining need not be so prim and proper though. If you’re craving something more casual, the ocean-side breakfast room also doubles as a bar with snacks in the evening.

Traveller’s Tip:

If you’re staying at Brunton Boatyard, we highly recommend attending the free daily yoga in the morning, cooking lesson in the afternoon and evening harbour cruise from the hotel’s own dock. These are great perks to take advantage of.

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The Malabar House

All of the Relais et Chateaux group of properties throughout the world, must have excellence in calm, character, charm, courtesy and cuisine. The Malabar House in old Fort Kochi is the first hotel in India to earn this designation.

A German and Spanish couple, completely renovated this old mansion. They fell in love with India and wanted to bring this brand of hospitality to the subcontinent. The hotel also features a very rare thing in India – an intimate wine bar with a great selection of vintages. Rooms are modern Indian meets European chic style and completely in sync with the owner’s vision.

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Fragrant Nature Hotel

Opened in 2016, this “built to look old” property features contemporary rooms decorated with plush fabrics and opulent fixtures. The pool on the roof has panoramic harbour views. And best of all, the staff are very devoted.

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Le Meridien

This hotel is completely updated and renovated since we first stayed here in 2012. It’s close to the airport and also only six kilometres from the city centre. With extensive grounds and a huge secluded outdoor swimming pool, it feels like a spa retreat.

Traveller’s Tip:

Take a yoga class here as the teacher is one of the best we know in South India. Ask for Pratheesh.

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We hope you enjoyed our list of places to stay in Kochi. Feel free to leave a comment with more ideas or any questions.

 Gratitude

Thanks to the KTM Society and Travel XS for sponsoring our travel throughout South India and CGH Brunton Boatyard for their gracious hospitality during our Faces, Places and Plates stay in Kochi in 2016.

All words and photos are our own and were not shared with the sponsors before publication.