Amritara A Beach Symphony

We're big believers in the magic of a brilliant boutique hotel. Small enough to ensure plenty of privacy, personalised service and stacks of character, our pick of Kerala's best boutique boltholes for romantics is a wonderful starting point for planning your next couples' holiday. You might choose to stay at one of these unique spots — or you could plot a trip beginning at the beach, heading inland and finishing in fabulous Fort Kochi, where you'll find the most boutiques to fill your bags with art and textiles before heading home. Whatever you decide to do, Kerala is a magical destination, and one well worth taking the time to savour slowly, and ideally to return to, again and again. 

For Historic Fort Kochi

Le Colonial, Fort Kochi

  • Le Colonial has just eight individually designed rooms and suites which feature original artwork, antique pieces, bright textiles and woven rugs. A heritage building in the heart of Fort Kochi, the hotel sits within a small garden with a swimming pool, just metres from the iconic St. Francis Church. 
  • Malabar House, a long-standing Fort Kochi favourite, was originally built as a Dutch residence in 1755. Now, the property offers 17 eclectic guest rooms set around a pretty courtyard with a pool. Sip a glass or two of wine at the upstairs bar before tucking in to Keralan cuisine by candlelight. The spa is a wonderful addition, and the location ideal for exploring shops, churches and galleries on foot. 

For Waterfront Bliss

Vismaya, Kerala

  • Vismaya, hidden on a peninsula studded with swaying coconut palms, has space for up to four guests. Whilst families or a group of friends are welcome, this bolthole is also brilliant for honeymooners. Expect discreet service from the warm, welcoming team, a refreshing swimming pool, delicious cuisine and dazzling views of Lake Vembanad from the 400-year-old heritage house. A gem. 
  • Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, a Relais & Châteaux favourite, comprises 31 elegant guest rooms and suites with antique four-poster beds and private terraces. Facing golden sands and the glittering sea, this is a wonderful option for honeymooners seeking classic opulence. Two eateries and an award-winning spa add to the appeal. 
  • Amritara A Beach Symphony will delight fans of bohemian style, with four individually designed cottages, complete with antique furnishings, luxe touches and private pools. Two-bedroom cottages are great for families, but couples can also enjoy hiding away in characterful spaces with big shaded terraces. A coastal escape with a friendly team, yoga classes and fabulous cuisine. 

For a Rural Hideaway

Pepper Trail

  • Pepper Trail offers unique guest cottages within 200 acres of working spice and coffee plantations. Couples dreaming of seclusion will adore cottages with plunge pools, free-standing tubs and furniture hewn by local craftsmen. With fresh ingredients from the kitchen garden and restorative Ayurvedic massages, this is a restful idyll for romantics. 
  • Rainforest Boutique Resort, close to the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, is perfect for nature lovers. The collection of 10 cottages and treehouses promises fabulous forest and waterfall views — from generously proportioned modern bedrooms as well as balconies. Gather at the open-sided restaurants for delicious cuisine on tranquil evenings. 

For Simple Charm

Seclude Karthika Nivas

  • Seclude Karthika Nivas is an intimate five-bedroom hideaway with characterful, understated interiors. A 150-year-old former residence tucked in leafy gardens with a shaded courtyard and raised circular swimming pool, this small hotel boasts beamed ceilings, big beds, block printed textiles and soft lighting. Simple and romantic.  

STILL NOT SURE?

8 Boutique Boltholes for Couples in Kerala

The Malabar House

Kochi (India)

This 18th century former Dutch residence has a reputation in town for all the right reasons. Boasting colonial architecture and works of art, rooms are decorated in comforting palettes of yellows and turquoise. The restaurant is famed for its fusion cuisine and the spa for its excellent treatments.

  • Cycling - Hop aboard the hotel's bicycels to explore the old town on two wheels - this is a lovely way to get around
  • Romantic Break - An enormously romantic hotel, with individually designed guest rooms set around a candlelit courtyard
  • Foodies - Malabar Junction, the hotel's restaurant, is widely considered to be one of the best in town
  • Yoga - Private or group yoga classes can be arranged in the peaceful surroundings of the hotel
from $247 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Le Colonial

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.

  • Sights nearby - Just 25m from the Chinese fishing nets and historic St. Francis Church, the hotel is perfectly placed for discovering the Fort
  • Romantic Break - Romantics will adore the intimate nature of the hotel, along with the spacious suites, big breakfasts & refreshing pool
  • Local exploring - Brilliantly placed for exploring the wonders of historic Fort Kochi on foot, and experiencing a heritage home
  • Museums - Discover Kerala's rich folk traditions with a visit to the fantastic Folklore Museum
from $223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Rainforest Boutique Resort

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.

  • Sights nearby - Speak to the team about packing a picnic to visit the awe-inspiring Athirapally Falls as part of a wonderful rainforest walk.
  • Back to Nature - Hidden in the rainforest, the treehouse is perfect for those looking to escape to the magical tranquility of the rainforest.
  • Learning - Visit a local village and learn about the culture and practices of the tribesmen of the Sholayar range.
  • Views - Expect marvellous waterfall and rainforest views from expansive guest rooms & the restaurant
from $351 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Pepper Trail

Kerala (Kerala, Sultan Bathery)

Quirky, chic and surrounded by nature is how we'd describe this three bedroomed, tree-top property. Uniquely decorated suites use local craftsmanship and pop colour with divine intent. No pokey bathrooms here. Dishes plucked from the kitchen garden are served and Ayurvedic massages are on offer.

  • Back to Nature - Sleep up in the trees amidst 200 acres of working coffee & spice plantations, this is a fabulous chance to reconnect to nature
  • Learning - Learn about traditional methods of cultivation and how coffee, tea and pepper are grown & processed on fantastic estate tours
  • Romantic Break - Sprawling tree top accommodation with colourful interiors and charming bathrooms make this a magical couples' retreat
  • Cooking classes - Pick fresh ingredients in the herb garden before delving into Keralan cuisine with the friendly team of chefs
from $141 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Amritara A Beach Symphony

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.

  • Families - Laid-back families will love the two-bedroom cottages, perfect for unwinding together after days of adventure
  • Honeymoons - With sublime private cottages and a gorgeous beachfront, it's an idyllic setting for a bohemian honeymoon.
  • Other Activities - Discover the village by tuk-tuk, touring fishing spots, the basilica, papadam manufacturing & more
  • Birdwatching - Expect superb birdwatching with expert guides at the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
from $152 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra

Kerala (Mullur PO)

One of Kerala's finest hotels, this 30-year-old Relais & Chateaux hideaway boasts a sublime location, ocean views, access to a quiet beach, innovative food and an award winning spa. A hot destination for couples and retreat enthusiasts seeking sophisticated chic in unbeatable surroundings.

  • Romantic Break - Unwind in style at this romantic seaside resort, with spacious guest rooms, candlelit dining & soothing massages await
  • Yoga - Rise early for energising yoga classes, or ease into the evening with restorative yoga and meditation
  • Spa breaks - A wonderful choice for those seeking a rejuvenating yoga, meditation and ayurvedic spa retreat
  • Great walks - Take romantic sunset strolls along the golden sands of the nearby beach
from $261 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Vismaya

Kerala (India)

Lakeside retreat in a beautiful old building recently renovated with stunning views, discreet personal service catering for sublime relaxation. For couples and families with older children.

  • Hotel boats for hire - Speak to the team about beautiful boat trips on Lake Vembanad, spotting wildlife & meeting community members
  • Great walks - Strolls along the shores of Lake Vembanad are wonderful - particularly in the early mornings & evenings.
  • Local exploring - Ideal for exploring the beautiful Keralan countryside surrounding Lake Vembanad on foot or by bicycle.
  • Romantic Break - With a heavenly location on Lake Vembanad, it's perfect for a romantic break.
from $141 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Seclude Karthika Nivas

Kerala (Kerala, India)

An intimate five-bedroom hotel housed in a restored, 150-year-old heritage residence, Karthika Nivas brims with charm. Bedrooms with beamed ceilings, big beds & soft lighting are set around a quiet courtyard, the sitting room features local artwork & the gardens include a refreshing pool. Lovely.

  • Total relaxation - The intimate feel of this heritage house, with its dedicated wellness space & refreshing swimming pool make it hugely relaxing
  • Romantic Break - Romantic couples will adore the characterful bedrooms, cosy nooks and tranquil atmosphere of this hideaway
  • Sights nearby - Fascinating temples & cultural sights abound in this area — two of the top spots include Guruvayur Temple and Bible Tower
  • Great walks - Take long strolls through the village for a sense of traditional community life in rural, riverside Kerala
from $72 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Saskia Walker

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