Hills & Hues, nestled high in the Thekkady hills, offers an extraordinary escape characterized by tranquility and breathtaking natural vistas. The hotel is celebrated for its stunning location, which provides panoramic views of the valley and lush greenery, offering a dream-like and picturesque setting right from the accommodations. While reaching this idyllic retreat requires a steep climb, the mesmerizing quietude and spectacular views are worth the effort, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere perfect for those seeking peace away from city life.
Guests frequently praise the hotel for its spacious and tastefully decorated rooms infusing a blend of comfort and luxury, with many enjoying remarkable vistas directly from their accommodations. High cleanliness standards enhance the sense of luxury, with both rooms and the property described as well-maintained and spotless. The dedication to impeccable service is evident in the warm and attentive demeanor of the staff, led by manager Mr. Prabhu, who ensure each guest feels welcomed and valued.
The dining experience at Hills & Hues is another highlight, offering an exquisite combination of Indian and European cuisine. The restaurant is known for its high-standard meals, particularly the biryani, crafted with culinary expertise by Chef Ram. The charming ambience during dinner, complemented by excellent live music and unique cookery demonstrations, enriches every meal. Although the menu could benefit from more variety, the quality of the food and attentive service consistently meet high expectations.
Guests are further delighted by the delightful breakfast experience featuring a mix of Indian and Western options. While some suggest the menu could offer more variety, the breakfast is appreciated for its deliciousness and the beautiful setting in which it is served.
The hotel's infinity pool, offering stunning views and often described as legendary, adds to the overall impressive experience, even if its cool temperature can be less inviting for some. Despite this, the allure of the hotel's atmosphere, scenic beauty, and outstanding hospitality ensure that Hills & Hues leaves a lasting impression as a memorable destination for a peaceful and luxurious getaway.
Elephant Passage stands out as a remarkable destination, set atop a hill in the heart of Munnar, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Guests consistently praise its prime location, tranquil ambiance and the immersive experience it offers in nature. The hotel is well-integrated into the lush green environment and visitors love the peaceful retreat it provides, complemented by stunning sunsets and high-quality, well-maintained facilities.
The breakfast experience at Elephant Passage is highly appreciated, offering a diverse and delicious selection that caters to different tastes with a mix of Indian and continental options. The complimentary buffet, in particular, receives commendations for its variety and quality, making it a pleasant start to the day.
Dining at the hotel, particularly the dinner options, receives mixed reviews but is generally praised for its tasty and varied offerings. Whether opting for buffet or à la carte, guests find the meals visually appealing and flavorful. Although there are occasional notes about the limited non-vegetarian choices and the slightly basic nature of the dinner buffet, the overall dining experience is positive. The rooftop terrace adds a charming dining ambiance, further enhancing the guest experience.
The rooms at Elephant Passage are frequently lauded for their cleanliness, comfort, spaciousness and modern amenities. Guests enjoy the stylish, contemporary design and the breathtaking views from their balconies. However, there are occasional mentions of minor issues such as a lack of soundproofing and damp smells, but these do not significantly detract from the overall positive experience.
Cleanliness throughout the property is another strong point with guests commending the well-maintained rooms and common areas. The lush, green surroundings and modern architecture contribute to a fresh and pleasant atmosphere. Despite some occasional shortcomings, such as dust and occasional maintenance issues, the overall standard of cleanliness is high.
The staff at Elephant Passage are a notable highlight, consistently described as warm, professional and exceptionally helpful. Guests frequently commend the friendly and courteous service they receive, which significantly enhances the overall experience. Notable staff members like Raja, Suresh and Victor are often praised for their dedication and efficiency.
The hotel's pool area is another standout feature with its magnificent infinity design offering breathtaking views of the mountains and sunsets. While some guests mention that the pool can be cold and occasionally crowded, its overall appeal is undeniable.
The beds at Elephant Passage receive high praise for their comfort and coziness, contributing to a restful stay. While there are a few isolated mentions of less comfortable extra beds and occasional stained bedding, these issues are rare and do not overshadow the general positive assessments.
Although the WiFi service at Elephant Passage receives considerable criticism for its slow and inefficient connectivity, this is mostly seen as a minor drawback in an otherwise delightful stay.
In summary, Elephant Passage offers a serene and luxurious retreat with stunning natural views, modern amenities and exceptional service. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding WiFi and occasional maintenance, the overall guest experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure in the heart of nature.