The Old Courtyard Hotel

Facilities

• Dining: The menu is delicious and changes frequently, combining both Keralan and Western dishes. Meals are eaten at small tables in the cobbled, open-air courtyard or in the shade of the adjacent stable arches. Food and drinks are available in the hotel from 7am to 10.30pm and there are lots of alternative dining options nearby
• Communal areas: There are no communal rooms, but the central courtyard with its chairs, parasols and mango tree provides a convivial space for relaxing and meeting other guests
• Internet Access: The WiFi access works well in the courtyard and intermittently in the rooms
• Swimming Pool: There’s no pool, but guests can use the one at the next-door hotel for a small fee
• Spa Treatments: There’s no spa, but there are plenty of Ayurvedic centres nearby offering treatments and massages
• Recreational: There is a mini library at reception and regular live music in the courtyard. Snooker and squash facilities are available just down the road and tennis courts and lessons can be booked at the Cochin Club (5 minutes away)
• Weddings and Celebrations: The hotel can accommodate small parties in the courtyard, but only up until 10pm
• Disabled Access: None
• Pets: Not accepted
• Languages Spoken: English

Environmental Policy

The hotels draws most of its water straight from its own courtyard well. Solar power is used to heat the water and power some of the lights, though there is a reliable back-up for cloudy or rainy days.

When to go?

November to March is the peak time for visitors: the weather is dry rather than humid and not too hot. The much quieter monsoon season (December to February) is a good time for taking an Ayurvedic treatment course nearby, as you’re supposed to rest up between appointments anyway. October and April could offer the best of both worlds, if you’re lucky.

Author's tips

Be sure to catch the sun setting through the shapes of the famous Chinese fishing nets on the nearby northern shores - it’s a magical sight.

Features include:

• Restaurant
• Breakfast
• Walk to restaurants (offsite)
• Courtyard
• WIFI internet
• Concierge service
• Off street parking