The headiest brew in the hills
The Charming City of Coorg is a hidden gem in Karnataka with its many marvels for every nature lover
BY NAMITA GUPTA
A trip to the Scotland of India is synonymous with the lush green coffee plantations that are in abundance here. As the British established their domain in India and moved to the South, they chanced upon South India’s coffee culture and commercialised it. Coffee plantations are ubiquitous throughout the stunning hills of Coorg that lend it a picturesque view, making it a treat for sore eyes. With easy access to all the four Southern states of India, it makes for perfect holiday destination for couples as well as entire families. This Kodagu district panning the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka is also a great place to relax and take a break from the humdrum of city life. With many resort options one can be spoilt for choice. Here’s what we recommend you try on your next visit to Coorg…
Who wouldn’t want a holiday where you wake up in a spick and span palatial bedroom (the rooms are spacious, comfortable and equipped with all the possible modern amenities) to the soothing melodies of nature, overlooking tall trees uninterrupted by the humdrum of daily life? Explore the picture-perfect beauty of Coorg as you stroll through the meandering greens, to a flavoursome breakfast spread and sip on some filter coffee. Nothing wakes you up like a full-bodied fresh morning brew. Nestled on a tucked away 25 acres of pristine coffee estate, The Windflower Coorg is embraced by one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots. Stroll into coffee plantations through serpentine pathways and inhale the crisp air. You also have the option of taking a guided tour of these lush coffee plantations or the jade hills around with a trained expert. No wonder this resort is considered a go to for every nature lover purist.
Once you’ve filled your lungs with the freshest of air around and built an appetite, you can regale your taste buds and immerse yourself in local flavours. After all you’re in an epicurean haven. The buffet spread that’s laid out every morning, afternoon and evening at The Bistro, with a stunning view of the greens also offers low calorie wellness cuisine. While you’re in Coorg it’s only right that you sample some of the local cuisine too. This restaurant whips up authentic Kodava delicacies unmatched among this area in Coorg. The buffet spread is as lavish as it can get, with a smorgasbord of flavours. The evenings come alive in the restaurant area with a live singer singing some classic melodies of the era gone by. There’s always a feeling of joie de vivre in this side of the town. You can also request for a private candle-light dinner, customised platters and fun food for kids.
Activity rooms are equipped with a pool table, table tennis, carrom board, chess and other board games. There’s also a huge chess board at the entrance reception area, which is a signature landmark of all the Windflower properties across the South and makes for a great backdrop for pictures. If you’re upto it then go ahead and indulge your adventurous spirit at the rope challenge course, target shooting, archery, the paintball field, zorbing and all terrain quad biking. There’s enough to keep your interest occupied during your short escape. Even if you’re not in mood for any of these, then it is the perfect place to get away from the crowds and enjoy some solitude and bliss in the midst of nature. Lounge around with a good book anywhere in the resort surrounded by a green canopy cover or revel in the pool against the backdrop of lush greens, followed by a rejuvenating spa treatment as you surrender to the caring, skilful hands of the expert therapists at the award-winning Emerge spa.
Where: The Windflower Resorts and spa Coorg, No. 201/P1, Kedakal Village, Suntikoppa Hobli, Somwarpet Taluk, Madikeri, Karnataka. Call: 099014 46666.
