Brunton Boatyard

Situated inside a beautifully renovated building that used to serve as a boatyard for the British navy, the colonial hotel blends Portuguese, British, and Dutch influences. It's surrounded by lush green lawns and interiors are decorated with terra-cotta floors, white walls, and high ceilings with exposed wooden beams. The seafaring influence here makes itself known in details like sweeping white blinds that are suspended by ropes, resembling the sails of a boat. There's also an antique anchor on the lawn outside, and framed shipping maps adorning the walls in the hallways. Historic artifacts are dotted around the hotel, including a turban given by Rani Laxmi Bai (a famous Indian fighting queen) that's displayed in the restaurant. The hotel prides itself on its eco-friendly principles, using harvested rain water that's been treated using reverse osmosis, a process that's done within the hotel. Communal areas have a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of spots to unwind and take in the views. Pre-dinner drinks on the lawn overlooking the lake are a must, while the outdoor pool is ready-made for tanning. The hotel is popular with tourists, particularly couples and families.

Brunton Boatyard is situated on the northern edge of Fort Cochin, overlooking the harbor. The area surrounding the hotel is quiet -- on land at least -- though the harbor is busy and noise from boats is not to be underestimated. There are plenty of attractions within walking distance, and the Fort Kochi to Vypin Ferry Terminal is only a two-minute walk from the hotel. Guests can also take a free sunset cruise around the harbor on the hotel's own private vessel. Bikes are free, and an ideal way to explore the area. Strolling is the name of the game in this part of Kochi. The 16th-century Paradesi Synagogue is a 30-minute walk from the hotel, while the Santa Cruz Cathedral and the Chinese Fishing Nets are a five-minute walk away. Numerous cafes and restaurants can be found a five- to 15-minute walk south of the hotel. Cochin International Airport is around an hour's drive from the hotel, depending on traffic. Trains can be found back on the mainland in Ernakulam, which can be reached from a ferry terminal that's a 10-minute walk east of the hotel.

The hotel has a total of 26 rooms and suites that are traditionally styled with terracotta floors, white walls, and chunky dark-wood antique furnishings. Ornate wooden poster beds take center stage in the bedrooms, while patio doors open out onto small furnished balconies. Most offer lovely sea views, while some overlook the gardens. Standard in-room amenities include air-conditioning, ceiling fans, flat-screen TVs, minibars, electric kettles, phones, and free Wi-Fi. Suites add extra living space and kitchenettes. Bathrooms are immaculately clean and decorated with simple blue and white tiles, and all include walk-in showers, deep-soaking bath tubs, hairdryers, bathrobes, and toiletries. The only downside is some noise from passing boats in the harbor, but ear plugs are provided.

Features are fairly numerous here when the hotel's small size is considered. For starters, the property has three excellent restaurants. The History offers an array dishes reflecting the area's cultural heritage, including Indian, British, Jewish, Portuguese, and Dutch traditions, while The Terrace Grill (which is closed in monsoon season) serves fresh local seafood that has been baked in a traditional clay oven. The Armoury overlooks the harbor and serves international and Indian fare, plus several vegan options. A breakfast buffet is available, and includes English and South Indian options, plus a generous selection of fresh teas and coffee. Room service is available, but hours are limited. Dining on the hotel's pier is also a highlight. The freebies are a great perk, and include a sunset cruise on the hotel's own boat, bikes, yoga classes, and cooking demonstrations. There are plenty of amenities for relaxing too, including a large outdoor pool with sun loungers and a full-service spa providing Ayurvedic massage treatments. There's also a fitness center, billiards table, and an on-site shop selling clothes, jewelry, and local handicrafts. Other services include babysitting (for a fee), luggage storage, laundry, free self-parking, and free Wi-Fi.