Check Into Serenity And The 1900s At 180° McIver In Coonoor

Old-world charm meets modern day amenities at 180° McIver, a gorgeous colonial bungalow with spectacular views, in Coonoor.

A smart and almost regimented little army town in the Blue Hills, Coonoor is quickly gaining on big sister Ooty. And if you, like us, pick 180° McIver, as your home for the holiday, then it’s likely you’ll never want to come back. A colonial house, with delightful wrought-iron tables and chairs dotting the well-manicured lawns, the hotel goes back in time to the early 1900s, when the house was built.

A little way from the cantonment area, the resort is set close to town, but just enough to stay away from the hustle-bustle. Luckily that means the views are spectacular. There’s six rooms to choose from, and it’s a tough call as they all exude a certain charm that the others don’t replicate.

Take for instance Creswel: This one is cosy and has a lovely fireplace to set the mood, in addition to a four-poster bed, and merry yellow walls. Then there are the smaller ones like Cranley, Cromwell, Montecute and Balfour, all well-appointed rooms with wooden furniture — from the beds to the regal arm chairs, dominating the space.

Feeling particularly self-indulgent and generous {towards ourselves, naturally}, we checked into the grand suite — the Blackwood. It even sounds regal, doesn’t it? Four-poster bed, a parlour area, powder room and a bathroom large enough to throw a cosy party, we’re feeling right at home here. And then we drew open the curtains to find our favourite spot — the private sit-out that overlooks the lawn and then the entire valley beyond!

Most wonderful to curl up with a strong cup of tea, a good book and the sunset.

La Belle Vie — the multi-cuisine restaurant, is another feather in their caps here. The veggies are mostly organic, handpicked from their own garden; you can pick the verandah or even the lawn to soak in the cool breeze.

But what is absolutely essential is a nap under the majestic eucalyptus tree that finds a place of pride in the garden. Or make it a picnic, order snacks, tea and just relax under its shade, the balmy sunshine trickling through for drama. Needless to say, the whole lawn area is a vantage point for the best views. Dinner is best had inside for the typical hill-station feel, especially in the winter with the fire crackling away.

Where: 1-4, Orange Grove Road, Near SIM’s Park, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Price: Starting at INR 3,750 per night

Contact: +91 9715033066