LET NIRAAMAYA RETREATS SURPRICE YOU

"Overlooking the Arabian Sea, and with its own secluded private beach, there's no doubt that Niraamaya Surya Samudra enjoys something of a paradisiacal location. And with its accommodation options limited to the 31 traditional Keralan cottages dotted amongst the greenery, the resort feels intimate and exclusive. Brightly-hued tropical blooms and polished wooden cottages with ornate carvings only add to the experience, while beautifully-appointed interiors with four-poster beds and vast open-air bathrooms are sure to please honeymooners.

With sweeping vistas over the ocean, the infinity pool, cocktail bar and two restaurants provide endless Instagram opportunities. There's a real sense of peace and calm to the Relais & Chateaux resort – partly because of the Niraamaya's location, and undoubtedly thanks to its diminutive scale. Neither the restaurant, pool nor spa felt crowded at all during our stay – it really seemed like we had the resort almost to ourselves. And no, we weren't staying in an off-season period either.

A few lost-in-translation moments aside, the Niraamaya's staff are an absolute asset to the resort – welcoming, attentive and unfailingly friendly without being intrusive. The resort is mainly frequented by well-heeled Brits, with a smattering of Americans and the occasional Indian here and there. We only encountered a handful of children during our stay – adults in search of unadulterated calm need have no concerns on that score."

(ALICE REVEL, THE TELEGRAPH)