5 resorts in south India that you need to check-in

Sanctuary Bay
It&rsquos not far from Kochi, and not far at all from Kumarakom, but you won&rsquot want to go there&mdashnot if you&rsquore staying at Privacy at Sanctuary Bay. This is a stunning little two-bedroom house set at the edge of the Vembanad Lake with nothing around to disturb your quietude but the sound of the lapping waters and the odd birdcall. It&rsquos so private, it&rsquos rented out to only one guest at a time. Location On the shore of the Vembanad Lake, opp. Kumarakom. Contact 0484- 2216666, www.malabarescapes.com

Rain Country Resort
The hills of Wayanad are thick with rainforest and teeming with secret hideaways. A spectacular one is the Rain Country Resort, spread over 20 acres of land at a height of 1,300m. The resort offers only eight cottages, all constructed in traditional style, and set in between natural ponds and streams that run through the grounds. At this place steeped in natural beauty, activities centre on walks of every kind. Location 60km from Kozhikode via Koduvalli, Thamarasseri and Lakkidi/300km from Bangalore. Contact 04936-255286, www.raincountryresort.com

Emerald Isle
Seemingly remote from civilisation and its discontents&mdashin reality, less than 10 kilometres from the bustling town of Alleppey&mdashis an island called Emerald Isle. Arrive at the 150-yearold Heritage Home by boat and immerse yourself in its many charms. The &lsquohotel&rsquo has only four rooms to offer (and only one air-conditioned), but all are special, retaining the perfectly balanced ancient aesthetic of deep red floors and glowing teak walls, doors and furniture. En suite bathrooms are all open-to-sky. Location 8km from Alleppey access to the hotel is by boat from the landing point opp. the Nazareth Church. Contact 0477-2703899, www.emeraldislekerala.com

Devbagh Beach Resort
When that eco-tourism pioneer Jungle Lodges & Resorts set up the Devbagh Beach Resort on a quiet island off the Karwar coast, they virtually invented a destination. With miles of nothing around but sea and beach, this resort is a simple exercise in tranquillity. Accommodation is in basic but comfortable log huts on stilts and activities are swimming, watersports and visits to the mainland (but why would you want to). Location 3km from Karwar/2hr30min from Goa/night bus from Bangalore. Contact 080-25597021, www.junglelodges.com

The Retreat
As laid back, paradisal holidays go, you could do worse than cart yourself off to The Retreat, nestled in Kerala&rsquos Wagamon Hills. Situated 1,100m above sea level, the Retreat is a two-bedroom cottage that overlooks the valley and just below the pilgrimage rock of Kurishmala. Relax in 15 acres of green and pleasant country, swim leisurely laps in the pool, or go trekking. There are no phones or TVs to disturb you and no electricity (though the generator is switched on in the evenings). Location 70km from Kottayam. Contact 0484-2216302, www.oldcourtyard.com