OVERVIEW:
We selected Sitaram's Munnar Retreat after an extensive research on wellness retreats in South India (and there would be a 100+ of them across that part of the country) and we shortlisted Sitaram initially based on their Thrissur property - which seemed stunning. We then stumbled across their Munnar retreat and since it was summer (March), it was the latter one which got us locked-in.
As it was going to be our first such experience, we were a tad cautious and requested them for a shorter-than-regular stay (5-nights) and they were graceful in accepting this request. And we believe, it was a perfect starting point for first-timers and we'll hopefully be there again and for a longer stint this time around.
PROPERTY:
Set in the midst of stunning tea gardens and cardamom plantations, the 16-cottage property is a joy to be in.
Whilst only 800m away from the highway, the retreat is quiet and serene; that said accessing the main road can be a bit of an exercise with 180+m of altitude gain; the inclines are steep to say the least.
The rooms are spacious and well-maintained, that said they are basic (no televisions or frills), but the sitouts more than make up for any lack of electronic entertained (they do have good wifi however)..
FOOD:
The food is satvik, healthy, and measured. That said, the menu is innovative and anything but boring and the food more the most part is tasteful, wholesome and flavourful.
SERVICE & AMENITIES:
The property has limited walking space, so may be a few more avenues for recreation would help. That said, they did take us for a walk into the tea plantation and for a yoga session at Munnar's botanical gardens.
TO SUM UP:
Beautiful property with clean and spacious rooms. The food, despite been exceptionally healthy & nutritious is for the most part delicious & innovative. The service across all aspect - FO, massage, clinic, restaurant, cleaning, etc. is top-notch.
We'd like thank the below for making our stay so much more wholesome.
Massage: Arun, Defin, Nikhil, Reshma & Tushara
Doctors: Suraj & Alphonse
Restaurant: Ashish, Arjun, Preeti
Yoga: Siva Sai
Abin - front desk