Skip the Hills and Bag These Delightful Summer Experiences Instead!

The weather’s changing and it’s starting to warm up! Bored of the annual holiday in the hills? From going wild in Binsar to strawberry picking in Mahabaleshwar, do something unique for your summer break this time. Check out these exciting summer retreat options.

Coorg - The Ibnii for a Tour of Coffee Plantations

You know you’re in Coorg when your nose picks up the scent of coffee lingering in the air! Fondly referred to as the ‘Scotland of India’, this hill station situated in the jade forests of the Western Ghats is serene and sublime. While here, the Ibnii is an eco-luxury resort that promises to make your experience a unique one starting with it being spread across an impressive 120 acres and housing guest accommodations that exude extravagance. Feast on culinary delights at any of the four restaurants, rejuvenate with a spa treatment or go swimming. Take a guided coffee escapade with a plantation expert to learn more about the growing process, fish in the water harvesting lake and take long leisurely walks in the evergreen surroundings.

Location: 123 Ibnivalavadi Village, Boikeri, Madikeri, Madikeri, Karnataka 571201

Rate: From INR 18,700 a night*

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Binsar - Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor for a Date with Wildlife

Amidst the beauty of the Kumaon hills in Binsar is a gem called Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor. Once a mountain-top residence of officers from the British Raj, this 150-year-old mansion is a charming retreat with nine rooms compete with attached porches and balconies. Guests can enjoy a new menu everyday with the freshest Indian and Continental dishes made using organic produce grown on the property. Enjoy your morning tea at The Barn and cosy up in front of the fireplace at The Library in the evening. While here, enjoy the outdoors with a trek within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Set off on the trail that leads up to Zero Point for a view of India’s second highest peak, Nanda Devi. Along the way, expect to see barking deer, wild boar and abundant birdlife. Also take a village walk through picturesque forested coverage to Kathdara where locals will gleefully welcome you and show you around. There’s no better place to disconnect and detox!

Location: Binsar Estate, P.O. Ayarpani, Regariya, Uttarakhand 263628

Rate: From INR 5,648 a night*

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Read more: My Favourite Romantic Getaway: A Dinner by a Bonfire in the Wilderness of Coorg

Mahabaleshwar - Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa for a Strawberry Picking Experience

Laid out across 27 expansive acres, the Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa has an alluring appeal. Nestled in the forests of the Western Ghats, the property overlooks the valley and offers stunning panoramic vistas from every nook and corner. With 122 rooms and suites equipped with the choicest amenities, guests can relax amidst lush greenery with recreational options such as an infinity swimming pool and a lagoon-style leisure pool surrounded by flowering plants and exotic trees. The Explore Spa is also another great option! Feast on gourmet meals at any of the four dining outlets where award-winning chefs whip up the finest regional and international cuisines. Along with taking a local sightseeing tour to temples and waterfalls in the area, go strawberry picking in the fields for a truly unique experience. After all, Mahabaleshwar is where almost 85% of India’s strawberries are grown!

Location: 211/212 Mahabaleshwar-Medha Road, Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra 412806
Rate: From INR 12,825 a night*

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Read more: Strawberry Picking and Paragliding at Mahabaleshwar: My Fairytale Weekend Done Right!

Kovalam - Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra for a Clifftop Stay 

With its stunning façade, the Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra is a coastal paradise complete with swaying palms and spectacular views of the Arabian Sea. Recognised as one of the country’s best Ayurveda resorts, wellness is on top of the list here. Stay in cliff-facing cottages designed using local building material and typical Kerala-style architecture, and savour the best of regional cuisines at the restaurants. Take a Backwater cruise through the intricate canals and lagoons that Kovalam is famous for, indulge in an elaborate tea by the sea, bicycle through a fishing village and picnic with elephants.

Location: P.O. Pulinkudi Road, Mullur, Kerala 695521
Rate: From INR 8,962 a night*

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Munnar - Spice Tree for a Pool Villa Stay

If luxury is what your soul seeks then Spice Tree is where you’ll definitely find it! Nestled in the forests of the Kannan Devan Hills and Bison Valley Hills, with 16 chalet-style guest accommodations on offer, choose to stay at an exclusive Private Pool Villa at this boutique property. Feast on expansive views of the valley 24x7 as you enjoy your private sanctuary complete with an outdoor deck and inner living space that boasts of the absolute finest in furnishings and amenities. Enjoy bespoke experiences like tea tasting sessions, ethnic cooking classes, nature walks and yoga retreats. Also visit spice plantations in the area, bicycle through the beautiful surroundings and head out on a photography tour for some great shots. Choose to stay in and indulge in spa treatments at The Bliss, play a board game at the Book Bar and swim in the outdoor heated pool.

Location: Muttukad-Periakanal Road, Nadukkurissu, Chinnakkanal P.O. Idukki, Munnar, Kerala 685618
Rate: From INR 9,700 a night*

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