GBP
Windermere Estate
PRICE: Punchy but doesn’t blow the budget
Nestled amongst the tea plantations of the Western Ghats, near the hill town of Munnar, sits Windermere Estate – a place to slow down, take a step back and discover the loveliness that surrounds it.
Perched on a cliff, in the cooler climes of the mountains, this intimate estate is made up of 18 authentically furnished rooms based around the original Planter’s bungalow, which remains the owner’s residence.
The rustic, chalet-style rooms were inspired by the original bungalow, all lovingly built with red cedar and large windows, and featuring locally-made furniture, hand-made soft linen and cotton sheets and hand polished terracotta and hardwood floors.
We recommend taking a dip in the pool – with its sweeping views of the surrounding hills – and heading out for slow, rambling walks around the plantation, which is full of life of all kinds, from exotic birds and giant Malabar squirrels to towering trees and cardamom plants.
Local scents and flavours are ever-present in the estate’s exclusive restaurant, which makes proud use of locally-sourced ingredients with a personal ‘Windermere Estate’ touch that you won’t find anywhere else. This is food straight from the heart.
And the dining experience is truly soul-soothing. The feel of the mountains and tea plantations runs through everything here and meals are served in the Barn. Inspired by traditional cardamom curing houses, it is light, airy and quaint, and we loved having breakfast on the balcony overlooking the tea gardens.
Stepping away from the busy, modern world to enjoy fresh coffee and sweet or savoury snacks in the gazebo or under the estate’s famous boulder for a barbecue and bonfire, is another real treat.
Yonder Insight
The dining experience at the Windermere Estate is exceptional. The mouthwatering curries change of a daily basis so stay longest to sample a few!
On your doorstep
Mile upon mile of wonderful plantation trails where you can walk for hours without seeing a soul
