The captivating region of Fort Kochi owes its charm to a blend of Malayali, Dutch, Portuguese and British culture which gives way to the soothing, laid-back vibe in the form of cosy cafes, art and architecture and its broad colonial-inspired streets.
You can spend sunny days here by the seaside, watch fishermen cast their nets or go cycling to explore the historic area. What better way to explore the place than by staying at a 300-year-old Portuguese restored mansion?
The Old Harbour comes from a place of history; located in the The Old Harbour Hotel comes from a place of history. Located in the heart of Fort Kochi, it was the first hotel in Old Cochin and has been owned by the Dutch, Portuguese and British since then.
The hotel was in disuse when owner Edgar Pinto decided to restore it to its former architectural glory to create a charming, vintage hotel that was then shortlisted for the UNESCO World Heritage Award.
The hotel follows the Dutch style of architecture with touches of Portuguese and is adorned with a wealth of art and antique furniture. The manor houses thirteen rooms which have high ceilings, a treasure trove of art and four-poster beds. The rooms look out to a courtyard with a gurgling fountain or Chinese fishing nets, which are fixed near the shore to catch fresh seafood for the kitchens in the Old Harbour Hotel.
There are special garden cottages for an authentic touch of Kerala where you can shower under the open sky.
There's a swimming pool amidst their tropical garden along with a large mango tree. In addition, there's an Ayurvedic spa, a large open-air terrace, yoga classes and city tours.
There's a special seafood menu based on the catch of the day and in prime season, guests can eat dinner outside in the garden accompanied by live musical performances.
Ideal for
The hotel mostly caters to couples, however, families can be accommodated too.
Things to do around the property
1. Go for a sunset cruise to watch leaping dolphins and billowing Chinese nets against the setting sun.
2. Visit the St Francis Church, the first European church in India where Vasco Da Gama was initially buried.
3. Rent a cycle to tour the streets of Fort Kochi and Mattencherry, a small town full of colonial buildings, to chance upon a cosy cafe for a cup of coffee.
Getting there
The nearest airport from the Old Harbour Hotel is Cochin International Airport, a 90-minute drive away. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam South, which is a 50-minute drive away.
Best time to go
The weather in the months of October to March is cool and pleasant which makes for a great trip.
Cost
From April 10 2020 till September 30 2020 (Off-season rates)
Superior Room – Rs 7600
Garden View Room – Rs 8,220
Garden Cottage – Rs 9,350
Suite – Rs 10,400
From October 1 2019 till April 10th 2020 (Seasonal rates)
Superior Room – Rs 12,450
Garden View Rooms – Rs 15,350
Garden Cottages – Rs 16,350
Suite – Rs 21,400
Fancy a visit to the luxurious and vintage Old Harbour Hotel? Book your stay here!
Contact: 9870284183
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