Neeleshwar Hermitage

This is not our first visit to Neeleshwar, but normally we travel to India in January, the high season for Kerala, so a stay in October was a step into the unknown. October would probably class as shoulder season, and the hotel was not fully occupied, but the weather was still more than acceptable, day time temperatures around 28 – 30deg, and it was possible to eat outside in the evening in shirtsleeves. Everything else was as you would expect from what is an excellent hotel. The rooms are large villas, either facing the sea or in the gardens, well equipped, a very comfortable bed, tea/coffee making equipment, and an open air bathroom with high pressure shower and sunken bath. We were in Santosh, newly upgraded to a Pool Villa, having a small plunge pool in an expanded bathroom area, with loungers and high pressure water jets. With two restaurants one serving Indian food, the other freshly caught fish, there was no lack of choice, and the quality was excellent. The name of the hotel gives away its philosophy, Neeleshwar Hermitage, and it is just that, calm and quiet, with yoga, meditation and ayaverdic treatments available, and aimed at people who look for that, a Goan beach hotel it isn’t, no TV’s, no smoking in the hotel area, no activity areas for kids etc., and a request to all guests to respect others, so ideal for a wind-down after a frenetic couple of weeks exploring India. Even the beach is largely deserted! The staff are superb, senior management who have been there certainly all the time we have been going, and staff and trainees from the local area combine to provide an exceptional level of service, whilst at the same time remaining unobtrusive, not an easy task. All in all, an exceptional hotel, which is reflected in the very high rate of return guests they enjoy. Highly recommended

This is the most wonderful place for a relaxing vacation. Kerala has lush greenery, gorgeous people and is very clean compared to north India. Everything at Neeleshwar is superb: the spacious comfortable villas with private open-air bathrooms, the consistently delicious food at every meal and the attentive chef and waiting staff, the gorgeous beach and pool (swimming at the beach is not always available due to the ocean swell), the fabulous excursions (don't miss the Theyyam temple ceremony and a day on the back waters in the resort boat - you'll be pampered) and the excellent yoga, meditation and spa packages (note that some of the hair treatments contain henna, but the staff are happy to advise you on the best package if you wish to avoid henna). Thank you to all of the amazing staff - you made us feel at home. We miss you and Neeleshwar already.

I recently had the good fortune of an 8-day stay at the stunning Neeleswhar Hermitage. This is a truly magical place: the environment radiates peace, ease, and joy. The facilities are state of the art and top of the line: every detail receives careful attention, from the turndown service to the spa, the restaurant to the pool--everything is maintained beautifully to maximize comfort and ease. I was truly impressed, and I've traveled widely throughout South and Southeast Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and North America! The staff are attentive without being overbearing, polished and professional without being distant or off-putting, friendly and open without being assertive or intrusive. I was deeply impressed by their professionalism and warmth. The environment is peaceful and soothing. I was able to meditate without interruption five times a day, and went for twice daily walks ***** the very long stretch of private beach abutting the hotel grounds. The beach is truly a marvel: pristinely clean, stretching for kilometers in either direction with very few other people, it was truly an oasis of peace and calm. I was blown away by its beauty and tranquility. The food at the restaurant was delicious and timely. I took advantage of a cooking class, which was as fun as it was informative! They have a rotating fresh menu every day, and the afternoon high tea was a real treat. The management was also incredibly thoughtful and attentive. Since I was staying for so long during the low season, they offered me a free upgrade to an ocean-view cabin, which completely transformed my experience. They were on hand to make sure I received whatever I needed or hoped for, but they weren't pushy trying to get me to go on excursions or spend money on things I didn't want to. They truly struck the totally perfect chord. I was deeply, deeply impressed by my time at Neeleswhar Hermitage, and you will be, too. If you're looking for a time to retreat away from the hectic frenzy of busy urban life, look no further. Treat yourself to a trip to Neeleswhar Hermitage; you won't regret it.

It’s not your typical hotel or resort thankfully. It’s a beautiful hermitage for those who enjoy peace, nature, simple comforts and an authentic experience. It’s a place for the discerning, not for those seeking out typical boisterous hotels. The spa is fantastic. They have a fresh menu every day of limited choices but all of excellent quality. I’d highly recommend this spot - but only if you can appreciate the finer pleasures of life.

Paradise in Kerala! One of the most relaxing and beautiful seaside places we have ever stayed. We enjoyed four days & three nights at this peaceful eco-friendly, sustainable, health-wellness retreat and definitely we’ll be back! Deep gratitude to Jeese Peter and his courteous, friendly, devoted staff. We were delighted by how clean & well maintained, beautifully designed and well appointed all the spaces were - from our private ocean cottage with thatched roof to the spacious, open dining hut (with library). We enjoyed the yoga class, had fun watching a movie in the cool club house, and I received a powerful Ayurvedic massage! We loved early morning walks on the beach watching the fisherman bring in their nets and getting to know other guests from the region. Our only recommendation would be to have more food & drink options in the restaurant, especially during off-season. The food variety was limited and while we enjoyed the weekend buffet, it might be helpful to provide a list of area restaurants where guests can try a broader range of choices, snd drink some alcohol & soft drinks. What about opening the sea side restaurant and offering cocktails & light music during the monsoon? A few more huts and maybe some shaded chairs on the beach? Best of all we loved the beautiful swimming pool overlooking the ocean beach (10 out of 10!!) and sitting on our porch listening to the rain, sipping tea and reading. Thank you for going above & beyond to make my birthday very special indeed! ❣️We loved our time at the Hermitage.

Wonderful. From the moment we arrived with our three kids (8,14,16) everything was incredible. Worth a mention is the pool, great length and view of the beach. The food, two restaurants (an indulgence for only 18 rooms) served up brilliant food, loads of choice. The beach, endless, clean and on your doorstep. However the staff deserve a special mention. Helpful, happy, always there when you need them, but never in your face. This place goes into our top 10 best in the world, beating hotels we have stayed in at similar times of year in the Caribbean and South Africa. Thanks