The first-class location of this sprawling ‘hotel village’ is far from its only selling point. There’s awesome food, excellent staff and boutique charm and sensibilities that can be so rare in large hotels.

An hour and a half from Cochin, Marari Beach is a gem in Kerala’s coastline, a long, undeveloped stretch of white sand bordered by palm trees and sleepy fishing villages. Alleppey is just 2km away and is the boarding point for many houseboats, so it’s easy to combine a backwater cruise with a beach stay and see 2 fantastic sides to the state.

Though large ‘resorts’ are not really our thing, this place has Tripzuki written all over it, from the ‘eco’ ethos to the sparse, cool and tasteful rooms with no TV. If it was a tenth of the size we could happily call this place ‘boutique’.

62 thatched cottages are dotted around the resort’s 55 acres of sparse palm grove, ponds, winding paths and manicured lawns, the latter cunningly maintained by goats and cows just hanging out. Cast-iron chairs and tables, sun loungers, hammocks and benches are dotted around the property so guests can just wander off, find a place to enjoy a book or just have a nap in peace.

There’s lots to do here and it’s largely geared towards relaxation rather than activity: complimentary yoga, ayurvedic massage, a big pool, lovely beach and butterfly garden. Do also try a cookery class with a difference: you can pick veggies from the organic garden and then, overseen by the chef, cook your own meal.

Despite the self-contained nature of this place, don’t confine yourself to staying on-site. Instead, venture out to the sleepy village of Mararikulam, you can borrow a bicycle or just take a stroll to experience the sights and sounds of this friendly rural community.