Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa

Situated to the north of Kovalam beach, the Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa is a combination of beach resort, backwater escape, hill retreat, and spa. The property is set on a hillside and spreads over 10 acres of lush tropical landscape dotted with exotic flowers, sculptures and water features and enjoys views of palms, a backwater lagoon and the Indian Ocean beyond. The hillside cottages are thatched with elephant grass and have private balconies accessed via large French windows. The rooms are elegantly furnished with dark wood and splashes of colour from silk cushions and modern paintings.

The resort has a choice of restaurants — Jasmine Bay overlooks the infinity pool and offers multi-cuisine, with cultural programmes to entertain the diners; Curries, an Indian specialty restaurant with a walk-in wine cellar; and Bait, a seafood restaurant right on the beach. Private alfresco meals can be arranged on request. A golf buggy is available for the transfer to the beach from the main hotel area, which can otherwise be reached by a 15-minute stroll. There is also a small gym and Jacuzzi. The Jiva Spa proffers a soothing and restful ambience with single and double treatment rooms. Yoga retreat packages are also available — please ask your India Specialist if you are interested in more information.

Trivandrum airport is 12 km (7 miles) and a 30-minute drive away.

OUR RATING: First Class