A plush, jungle- and plantation-fringed boutique property in gorgeous northern Kerala that promises an uncluttered view of low hills stacked one after the other, carpeted by clumpy tea bushes. Think stunning sunsets, the best brew in your hands and a million shades of green all around.

When travelling through a destination as well-trodden as Kerala (especially Wayanad), it is almost forgivable to lazily choose the most familiar and ‘top-rated’ accommodation amongst the hundreds of options available. Ironically, Chateau Woods is in fact the best-rated boutique offering but keeps its charming aloofness intact. No wonder it has slipped effortlessly into our listings.

The access and time taken to reach Chateau Woods is good enough reason for Bangalorean weekend travellers to make it their preferred choice. It lies just across the border for self-drivers who come past Sultan Battery and into Kalpetta. The other, most significant hook, lies in the fact that the handful of superb modern cottages, propped on gradual inclines, present a pleasantly lethargic set-up, perfect for a ‘do nothing’ trip.

For those who like to crack knuckles, pull up their socks and explore, there’s plenty to do. An exclusive waterfall, a 4-wheel, bone-rattling ride, rubbing shoulders with hundreds of tourists to get a peek at the famous Soochipara Falls, sitting patiently for a fish to bite at the property’s own pond or shooting pool with a view, the list goes on.

A jacuzzi overlooking the sprawling tea gardens versus a cottage that hangs over a gorgeous valley may pose some trouble in selection, but then you already know where you want to stay on your next holiday.