Planning a trip to the South? Don't miss these new hotels

The pandemic is not truly behind us. But, with the right precautions in place, it is safe enough head out for short stints of travel. If you are looking for a change of scene, but in safe environs, take a look at these brand new hospitality establishments in South India.

Experience Karnataka at Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall

Whether you travel for work or for leisure, hotels often remain functional rather than seamlessly becoming a part of your experience. But, at the Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, you get a subtle experience of Karnataka right from the entrance where notes from a Nadaswaram welcome you. As you enter the signature fragrance of Sandalwood and Vetiver developed for the hotel envelopes you. The décor is reminiscent of the Hoysala era and beginning at the tastefully done lobby, you have so many beautiful spots to stop for a photo. Across the hotel, exclusive digital prints of sights from around the state give you reason to pause. The monolith onyx centrepiece in the lobby, is something you should not miss. Nor the large mural of kitchen antiques that splashes across the wall leading to the all-day restaurant La Utsav. Here you can indulge in a meal representative of the varied cuisines of the state – soft raagi rotis, Mandya style Mutton sukka, Mangalore style chicken ghee roast, some indulgent Mysore pak and spiced buttermilk. The filter kaapi experience at the hotel, whether at the buffet breakfast table or at the lobby bar 1026AD is especially unique because of coffee beans sourced from an estate in Chikmagalur that otherwise only exports. The rooms are spacious, well-appointed and make your stay - work or leisure an extremely memorable one.

Grand Mercure Bengaluru

Take in the picturesque backdrop of the Nilgiris at SerendipityO

The colonial properties of SerendipityO come set against the majestic aura of Ooty. Lovingly restored by Junaid Ali Sait, these three scenic heritage properties offer a boutique experience that comes from the heart, art, nature and history. Soak in the colonial charm at Lymond House which dates back to 1855 and is the epitome of a bygone colonial era, set among a vista of flowering trees and sprawling lawns. One can enjoy the atmosphere that has been lovingly preserved for over 160 years. Connect with nature at Amberina, a tea planters’ bungalow, surrounded by trees and rolling hills covered in a blanket of tea estates. This is situated in the old gold mining hills of Devala. There is also 180 McIver, a 145-year-old colonial house that has the breath-taking 180-degree view of Coonoor and the surrounding hills.

SerendipityO

Escape from the city to Le Roma Gardenia

Just about an hour away from Bengaluru, Le Roma Gardenia is a perfect weekend getaway destination. The property has an abundance of greenery in and around it, along with well-decorated nooks and corners and pathways that lends a dreamy vibe. Each room and space in the property is tastefully decorated and is perfect for a destination wedding, intimate events and staycations. A snooker table, private cinema experiences, fragrant restrooms and customised culinary experiences are some of the tiny details which make us one of the best resorts in Bengaluru. Moreover, it’s a pet-friendly resort, so you never have to leave the furry ones behind.

Le Roma Gardenia

Kahani Paradise – a Beach-facing luxury villa at Gokarna

Placed on a hilltop overlooking the sea in the heart of southern Gokarna stands Kahani Paradise. Here is a 20-acre estate of gardens, forests and farms. Walk through the tropical garden to the orchards of coconut, betel-nut and banana trees. Watch the tides change with stunning views of the ocean that you are privy to. Stop and take in the tropical flowers you find at every corner around Kahani Paradise. The property offers a private villa for families and large groups - with 6 suites, a Drawing Room, a Swimming Pool, Spa and Dining Room that overlooks a teeming garden. The décor of the villa can take your breath away – from the red laterite rocks on the exteriors, to the artefacts around the house, to the infinity pool by which you can spend the day.

Kahani Paradise