Having experienced the best of GRT’s hospitality at GRT Grand on a personal visit to Chennai a couple of years back, an invitation for a bloggers’ meet by GRT, Kodaikanal had me all excited. I am happy to say that brand GRT not only lived up to my expectations but pleasantly surpassed them, making my trip to Kodaikanal last weekend truly memorable for more reasons than one!
One of the most popular hill stations in South India, Kodaikanal, also known as the “Princess of Hill stations”, forms an ideal weekend getaway from any of the major cities like Chennai, Bangalore or Madurai. At 2000 feet above sea level, lush greenery, gorgeous valleys and panoramic views make Kodai, as it is also known, a favorite with many.
Here is my review of GReat Trails, Kodaikanal.
Accommodation
Tucked away in quaint Vilpatti, GReat Trails is just a 20 minute drive from Kodaikanal bus stand. As we climbed up the hills, the air seemed to get fresher and the views prettier with every turn. Colorful houses, idyllic sidewalks brimming with radiant flowers in myriad hues only accentuated the setting making it picture perfect!
As we entered the gates of the property, I could not help but stare in amazement at the incredible variety of ornamental flowers that included the exquisite peonies, cone flowers, roses and English lavender that dotted the impeccably maintained landscape.
Complimenting this English country side ambience are the aptly designed 40 rooms that are of two categories: the Timber Chalets and the Rock Cabins. Some pictures of the Timber Chalets below.
High on aesthetics and functional value, the rooms strike a perfect balance between class, luxury and comfort.
Add to this are some stunning views of the surrounding valley that seem to have a rather magical effect in helping you rejuvenate while soaking in the natural beauty all around.
All rooms are equipped with amenities that include a mini bar, a work desk, safe locker and Wifi among others.
Food
While at GReat Trails, you can treat yourself to some delectable meals at the Whistler cafe. With both indoor and outdoor seating and a capacity of about 84, the ambience is contemporary and elegant.
Breakfast is complimentary and the spread is exhaustive including several South Indian, English and continental options. Likewise, the fare at lunch and dinner is multi cuisine.
While the cafe offers uninterrupted views of surrounding greenery that you can enjoy while you savor your meals, there is also an open-air amphitheater amidst the lawns that is apt for bonfire nights, parties and casual get togethers.
Outdoor activities
If you are feeling adventurous on your holiday and game to get that adrenaline pumping, GReat Trails has facilities for some high rope activities. These include the zip line, Burma bridge, Earthquake and Charlie Chaplin walk. There are experts in-house to guide you, who make sure you stay safe while having fun!
There is a children’s zip line as well apart from a full fledged play area for kids.
There is also an indoor games room overlooking the valley where you can bond over a game of table tennis, Carrom or even foosball.
Other facilities
GReat Trails is also a suitable option for hosting corporate meetings, training sessions and official outings. There are two well-equipped conference halls – Kurinji 1 and Kurinji 2 replete with all the infrastructure and facilities that are required for business meetings.
What I loved about the place
GReat Trails forms for a ideal hillstation holiday given its location, facilities and overall experience. According to me, the place strikes a perfect balance between a boutique hotel and a super luxury resort and provides the best of both these worlds. The place is kid friendly, the size of the property is just right (neither too big nor too small) and the views are excellent for one to enjoy the essence of Kodai. It is just as amenable for family vacations as for official outings and even for a romantic getaway with only your spouse and you!
With some great food and even greater service, the staff go above and beyond to ensure that you have a great experience. They are helpful, courteous and truly value their guests. With multiple amenities and loads of things to do in and around the resort, Great Trails is a place I would recommend if you are heading to Kodai.
For more details and booking, visit their website here. You can even check out and like their FB page here.
Disclaimer: This post was made possible by GRT group of hotels and Firebrand labs. A big thank you to all the staff at GReat Trails, Kodai and Spoorthi Arun from Firebrands for organizing a wonderful bloggers meet. All views and opinions, as always, are solely mine.
Stay tuned for the next post coming up on some unusual things to see and do while in GReat Trails!
