Privacy at Sanctuary Bay

Two stylish and fully-staffed backwater bungalow villas (sleeping 6) on the shore of Lake Vembanad in Kerala

Sister to the famed Malabar House in Cochin, Privacy is the ultimate stylish ‘backwater’ retreat. Lying on the palm-fringed shores of Lake Vembanad, just 1.5 hours south of Cochin, these are heavenly little villas. The original Waterfront Bungalow, which faces the lake across the swimming pool, is now a suite, with a dining room, sitting room and a long veranda offering views of the shimmering lake. The recently restored Heritage Bungalow is set further back in the lush garden and has 2 bedrooms on either side of a living/dining room. Like Malabar House, both are tastefully decked out with artworks, colourful fabrics and period furniture. Extra boutique touches include a chilled, rose-scented face towel on arrival.

This is a hidden gem to appreciate on your own, as a family or with friends. Every need is catered for and you can read, write, explore the coconut groves and villages by bicycle or take gentle boat rides on the huge lake and through the maze of backwater canals. Or you can simply lie back on the veranda, drinking in the panoramic lake views. If you’re looking to relax in glorious isolation and switch off for a few days, this is for you.

Highs

• This unique lakeside location has beautiful views, a verdant garden and total peace and quiet
• It’s small but perfectly formed, with most services a hotel would offer
• There’s an inviting lakeside swimming pool
• The fusion food on offer is deliciously different
• There’s a choice of speedboat, canoe or sailboat for messing about on the water

Lows

• The absence of other guests means it’s too peaceful for some and, though staff are charming and attentive, there's no resident ‘host’
• There are a few mosquitos due to the watery setting, though their numbers are reduced by 24-hour pest control and incense wafting throughout the property at night
• There are few signposts to help you find the villas under your own steam
• In the drier months the evaporated lotus ponds look a little sad and muddy