If you are a coffee lover, these are the places you need to be

The Indian coffee movement has been on the rise for nearly half a decade. Not only have the Indian consumers learnt how to tell the difference between their bullet proof and chemax, medium and dark roast, they are also appreciating coffee produced on Indian estates now more than ever. If you are a coffee connoisseur who loves their cuppa and wishes to wake up on a plantation that promises a bean-to-cup experience, these coffee-driven hotel stays are just the place to be.

Serai, Chikmagalur 

About 30km from the highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri, this resort is situated around dense coffee plantations. Chikamanglur is home to one of the earliest coffee plantations in India, with the coffee in this region being quite superior and nuanced. It’s a perfect short weekend getaway from Bangalore and a picturesque long weekend for others travelling from afar. Besides luxury, single, and two-tiered villa accommodations, they also have a functional spa and varied dining experiences, like a meal in the forest.   

Evolve Back, Coorg 

Infinity and private pool villa-fitted bungalows make this luxury resort in Coorg a must stay. While some pay homage to Kodava-style wooden architecture, some provide endless views of coffee and spice plantations surrounding the property. Besides luxury stays, the resort also houses a coffee museum to take you through the history of coffee cultivation and its journey from seed to cup, traditional coracle rides that are used by local fishermen, birdwatching, and gourmet Coorgi meals.  

Halli Berry, Chikmagalur and Coorg 

With two properties, Halli Berri, a homegrown coffee label offers quaint cottage stays with “responsible luxury bed and breakfast”. One of their properties is situated in Baba Budan Hills and fitted with antique furniture, decorated with a blend of English country, Japanese Zen, and Athangudi style interior, while the other is set in Chembabelur, a family home that’s now the brand’s main robusta plantation. Halli Berri has a thorough culinary programme that features dishes such as bitter orange rind cheesecake made with oranges from their farms, tender bamboo shoot and fenugreek seed mango curry, plus, chicken curry with crushed bella (jaggery) and spices from their plant nursery.  

Woodway Estate, Chikamagalur

A quick 15-minute ride from the town of Chikamagalur, Woodway Estates are bungalows built in the 1900 by the British. They are housed around coffee bushes, on a high altitude that is blessed with great weather throughout the year. While at the bungalow, you can experience luxury accommodation, Malenadu cuisine meals made from local and seasonal produce and the area around offers many routes for trekking and cycling enthusiasts. The estate produces its own jams and pickles made from homegrown citrus, freshly-brewed, single origin, Arabica coffee. 

The Tamara, Coorg 

Walks through the neighboring peppercorn, cardamom and coffee plantations are routine for guests at the Tamara. One of the earliest properties to offer a stay around lush coffee farms, the Tamara is ideal for those who take their bean seriously. Besides plantation walks, they also offer guided bird watching tours, yoga sessions, forest therapy, and more.

 

Lead image: Halli Berry, Chikmaglur