Cardamom House, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

Situated outside the small village of Athoor, Cardamom House is off the beaten track and offers a true rural experience. Owned and run by the exuberant Chris Lucas, a retired British physician, the atmosphere in this eight bedroomed property is wonderfully relaxed and peaceful. The simple bedrooms each have a private sit out overlooking the garden, which is abundant with flowers and birdlife and leads down to the small lake. There are a variety of activities such as walking, bird-watching and painting, though without doubt the most popular is enjoying sundowners on the bougainvillea-covered roof terrace, watching the sun retreat behind the surrounding hills. The latest welcome addition is the swimming pool. The food is delicious and the set menus alternate between Indian and continental cuisine. Athoor Village is only 5 kms away from Cardamom House and it is possible to simply stroll there at your own pace. The villagers are very friendly and you can shop for local produce at the market, visit local schools and take chai with the postmaster in the local post office.