Boutique Sri Lanka
Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Galle, Balapitiya,
India has some of the most diverse coastline in the world. Whether you like powder-soft sandy beaches, lagoons teeming with wildlife, rocky and rugged cliff tops or remote tropical islands, India can provide your perfect seaside escape.
Goa is perhaps the most famed of all tropical getaways in India, a place of rejuvenation for temple-tired travellers. It has a pretty string of golden sand beaches rimmed by bendy coconut trees and a host of attractive accommodation, some based in the tropical jungle.
Further south in lush Kerala, the Malabar Coast has less visited but wild and beautiful beaches and stunning resorts, like Neeleshwar Hermitage, a traditional Keralan-style property tucked away on a quiet beach in northern Goa. The pace is tranquil and unspoilt, a place to unwind, indulge in Ayurvedic spa practices or take a boat trip on the peaceful lagoons of the backwaters.
A short flight away lie the islands of the Lakshadweep, tiny dots of lovely sand and coconut trees, encircled by azure waters punctuated by vivid corals and abundant fish. These rustic islands are an ideal retreat for those wanting to get away from it all. The Andaman Islands, off the east coast of India, also offer a secluded beach break with slightly more accommodation options.
Explore the pristine marine reserves on a thrilling scuba diving trip and catch sight of sharks, manta rays and the rare dugong turtle. Why not finish your Indian itinerary with a trip to the blazing white beaches of the Maldives for the perfect, dream-like end.
Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Galle, Balapitiya,
Colombo, Pinnawala, Thirippane, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Passikudah
Kotugoda, Hatton, Weligama, Galle
Bengaluru, Mysuru, Coorg, Neeleshwar, Hyderabad
Puducherry, Mahabalipuram, Chennai, Havelock Island, Kolkata
Pannala, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ambewela, Weerawila, Yalla, Galle
Itinerary available on request.
Colombo, Anuradhapura, Jaffna, Trincomalee, Madulkelle, Kotugoda
Whether you are looking for a beach holiday or just a little relaxation at the end of an epic journey, the Indian subcontinent has plenty to offer those looking for the slower pace of life found at the coast.
For a taste of true colonial history, stay at the charismatic Siolim House in Goa. This 350-year-old Goa-Portuguese Manor House is steeped in history and is located close to the area's quieter beaches of Morjim, Arambol and Mandrem. Recover from a packed schedule, filled with stunning sights and unforgettable experiences at Elsewhere, Beach House and Tents, where families can relax in one of Goa's best-kept secrets. Situated on an idyllic spit of land, the property offers pure escapism on a quiet area of beach. Head south to the quieter beaches where you will discover the larger luxury resorts such as The Leela, Goa and Alila Diwa, Goa.
Neeleshwar Hermitage, in the northern reaches of Kerala, offers the ultimate in low-key luxury. A quaint independent hotel, situated on a stretch of unexploited beach, guests can relax in stylish cottages, whilst choosing rejuvenating treatments before heading home. Further south just a few hours from Cochin International airport there is a beautiful wide stretch of beach where you can choose between the rustic family friendly Marari beach hotel, the simple three room beach fronted Marari Villas and the lavishness spa resort Carnoustie with its all villa accommodation, extensive ayurvedic spa, private house boat and exquisite fresh cuisine.
On the South East coast of India, Tamil Nadu has several little beach retreats that make for a perfect beginning or end to a whistle stop temple town tour of the state. The well-established Vivanta by Taj, Fishermans Cove just outside of Chennai has a lovely variety of accommodation, extensive Jiva spa and alfresco dining. On the outsides of the ex French colonial city of Pondicherry you will find the colourful and contemporary yoga beach retreat, Eco Dune Resort.
Why not travel to The Maldives for a taste of ultimate escapism. Retreat to Shangri-La's Villingilli Resort & Spa. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage and 17,000 coconut trees, the all-villa resort's two kilometres of sandy beaches offer guests endless space in which to relax. Similarly, guests who choose One & Only Maldives at Reethi Rah have a choice of 12 beaches spread around the resorts' private 109-acre island.
Water lovers should settle at Soneva Gili, The Maldives' first all water resort, or discover Cocoa Island, which includes 17 converted Dhoni boats, connected by wooden walkways. The resort boasts and award-winning Shambala Retreat Spa and an excellent house reef.