A kiwi fruit induced neon green drink welcomes us into the plush, spanking new interiors of Ramada Alleppey on the banks of the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. Nothing about its glitzy interiors suggests the gorgeous lake, which like liquid glass, reflects everything it sees.
The resort, a couple of months old, offers a ringside view of the Nehru Trophy Boat race. Of the 121 rooms, 71 premium rooms face the lake and offer a direct view of the race. The finishing point is adjacent to the property. Looking at the lake punctuated by rows of gently swaying coconut palms on strips of land is a balm to weary eyes.
The suites and rooms are luxurious. Be it the completely wood-panelled Presidential Suite, which has two rooms, the Royal Suite or even the smaller Standard rooms. A few of the Standard rooms have a breathtaking view of the Vembanad and Punnamada lakes. Some have interconnecting doors to accommodate families travelling together or those with children accompanying them.
The highpoint, literally, of the hotel is Venice, the lounge and grill on its terrace. Possibly the highest point in Alappuzha, according to Anup Pillai (General Manager), it offers a breathtaking view of the lakes. At night the lake shimmers and the lights from bobbing houseboats seem like glimmering fireflies in the velvety darkness. Heaven’s Cake, the café, boasts a variety of cakes and bakes. For those who fancy nursing a drink and watching life on the waters there is the bar, Pegs n’ Pints. Apart from Venice, there is the multi-cuisine restaurant World in the Pot. The restaurant overlooks a stunning swimming pool.
In cooler times sitting in the garden near the pool and looking at the houseboats float by while sipping a cup of tea seems idyllic. The pool deck is ideal for barbecues. A corridor leads right up to the water’s edge for those who want a closer experience of the lake. The open corridor, which abuts into the water, has openings making it easier for guests to board houseboats.
What hotel experience in Kerala is complete without spas and Ayurveda treatment? At Essence (the spa and beauty parlour) Ayurveda treatments such as massages are supervised by trained doctors. Apart from the traditional treatments other spa therapies too are offered. The hotel’s two indoor banquet halls, Vembanad and Punnamada, and the outdoor banquet area provide ample space to conduct functions and conferences. For those who want to indulge in some retail therapy there is the ubiquitous Kashmiri curio shop too.
Published - April 03, 2014 07:05 pm IST
