Jan 162011
A 300 year-old building that has long been a heritage monument of Cochin, now reopened as a boutique hotel. Built in the Dutch style of architecture with hints of Portuguese influences, it was the first hotel of old Cochin. Later it became a residential home to employees of English tea-broking firms until it was left unused for a period of time. Now restored to its former glory, the Old Harbour Hotel is a stylish fusion of old and new and has an enviable location by Vasco De Gamma Square and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Rooms are large, airy and stylish, the garden is delightful and the fabulous swimming pool is a real attraction.
Location
Excellent central location in the heart of historic Fort Cochin, very close to the Chinese Fishing Nets. Some of the Suite rooms have views across to the sea and the fishing nets.
All major attractions in Fort Cochin are within easy walking distance.
Old Harbour Hotel is 45 km from Cochin airport and takes around 1 hour to transfer by car.
Facilities
Swimming Pool: The raised granite infinity pool is a real asset of the hotel. At 20m long, it is large enough for laps or refreshing dips. A terrace with sun loungers surround the pool, perfect for unwinding after a busy day sight seeing in Cochin.
Spa Treatments: There is a small Ayurvedic spa centre within the hotel where treatments and massages are available. In-room treatments can also be arranged on request.
Yoga: early morning sessions are often held on the rooftop for a revitalising start to the day.
Internet Access: is available at the hotel
Accommodation
A total of thirteen rooms located in either the main building or the garden annexe. Attention to detail is evident with the provision of organic soaps and lotions in the bathrooms, comfortable robes and slippers as well as plenty of bottled water. All rooms have been beautifully restored and decorated in a stylish, natural fashion with the addition of local antiques and artwork.
Rooms: each room is named after the various old streets of Fort Cochin and are plush with high ceilings and either look into a courtyard with a fountain or over the ancient Chinese Fishing nets.
Garden Cottages: have open-to-the-sky showers, a veranda and views of the lily pond and beautiful garden.
Suites: The 3 sprawling suites, complete with four-poster beds, are particularly luxurious; the Bastion Suite has a romantic swing chair for two, while the Princess Suite has a private balcony and is the only room with a bath.
Dining
Dining at Old Harbour Hotel is a delight, particularly at night when the garden is lit up to create a magical atmosphere. The restaurant has an indoor dining area that spills out onto a terrace with tables dotted around the garden and under the ancient mango tree. There is a good range of Western and local cuisine to suit most palettes but the speciality has to be the fish which is freshly caught just across the road! There is a special seafood menu and barbecue every night in the garden. We also enjoyed the duck curry – another Keralan speciality. All vegetables are organically grown and there is an emphasis on freshly squeezed juices.
Breakfasts are a leisurely affair with a good selection of buffet and cooked to order options. Local newspapers are at hand whilst you sip another another cup of spiced chai tea.
