Charming and elegant, the Vivanta by Taj - Kumarakom, Kerala is the place to stay to explore the Keralan backwaters. Take a river cruise (organised by staff on request), try night fishing, or simply relax; this is a romantic, somewhat undiscovered retreat that blends colonial charm and unspoilt landscape beautifully.

The facilities

The restaurant, housed in a 120-year old bungalow, serves a range of International favourites. There's an Ayurveda Centre that employs highly-trained specialists, plus an outdoor pool and fitness centre.

The rooms

Each of Vivanta by Taj - Kumarakom, Kerala's 28 guestrooms is classic in style, in keeping with its communal areas. All have satellite televisions, private safes and minibars as standard. Our top tip? Plump for a Private Pool Villa, whose splash pools are set amid lush gardens and sweeping views of Vembanad Lake.