Want Vintage Luxury in Coonoor? Stay at Neemrana Wallwood Garden

Homely and comfortable, this Neemrana property is great for some quiet down time in the hills, with stunning tea gardens every direction you look.

If you have a long weekend, or even a week to spare, head to the sleepy town of Conoor; this charming British bungalow there is the perfect one if you’re looking to escape. With over 100 years of history {it was originally built by a Scottish Major General, and is now with a tea company}, it really takes you back in time.

From the stately porch and the wooden flooring, to the fireplace and common room, the entire set-up is vintage. But don’t go thinking that it’s old-school. This place has modern amenities {don’t we all love those power showers?}, some level of cell reception and TVs.

The spacious and quaint rooms {10 in total}, are what we fell in love with, and suspect you might too. The best one, in terms of the view, is named Eucalyptus, which directly looks onto the property’s prized pomological garden. For luxury, check into the Pine or Gulmohar rooms, complete with fireplaces, writing desks and massive double beds.

Meanwhile, Acacia’s trump card is that it has a door opening straight onto the garden. Looking for cosy? Make the Camphor room your home for the holiday.

Having tea in the gardens is always a relaxing action. But if that’s too much sunbathing for you, sneak into their atrium and restaurant, Feast, which doubles up as an amazing viewpoint. Serving homely food, it’s a limited menu with Indian khana reigning supreme.

Once you’ve settled in at Neemrana Wallwood, Downton Abbey style, make sure to take a walk in the large gardens. And if you’re wondering what this pomological garden is, then here’s your answer: One of only three experimental fruit gardens for the State Agricultural Department, you’ll see research being done on fruits of all kinds here, ranging from pomegranate and apples to plums and apricots.

Elegant, fuss-free and inspiring even, we’d go back for the tranquil set-up and non-intrusive but helpful staff. Privacy is what you should go here for, because it’s exactly what you’ll get.