Ever fancied a home where the constant chirping of birds keeps you company, where you can lie down on a hammock in the lawns overlooking a vast lake while watching the locals commute by boats? Well, this was 1/3rd of the experiences we had at Lovedale lakeside homestay in Alleppey. Why 1/3rd you ask? Because we experienced so much more than just this. Read on to discover the delight of living with a warm, Keralite family.
Anshad, the owner of Lovedale Lakeside homestay, is a retired professional who has worked in the gulf for many years. He started this homestay almost a decade back in his own ancestral property. His aim is to provide the most authentic experience to people visiting Kerala. Right from the way the cottages are styled to the way the food is made, you will see and experience the touch of Kerala. His wife accompanies him in this quest by doling out lip-smacking goodness for all the visitors!
ACCOMMODATION
The place has five rooms in all. Each room comes with an ensuite bathroom and basic toiletries are provided. The rooms are air-conditioned and complete with amenities like a TV, a wardrobe, and a dressing table.
Cottage
The cottage comprises two separate rooms and each can accommodate two (sometimes +1) Anshad narrated an interesting story behind the cottage. This whole cottage was an old Kerala home once, dating back to around 100 years. At the point when he was establishing the homestay, he purchased this and had the whole cottage transported to his place. He further renovated it to make it into two rooms. Quite interesting, right?
Rooms on the 1st floor of the main home
The rest of the three rooms are on the 1st floor of their main house. One of these rooms is slightly bigger than the rest and can accommodate four people, good for a family, but you need to book prior.
COMMON AREAS
Guests are welcome to meander around the property and spend time in any nook and corner they please. Common sitting areas include the restaurant space which is by the vast Vembanad lake, hammocks, an open balcony on the 1st floor overlooking the lake, and an internal dining area also on the 1st floor. There is also a pleasant, lawned garden space to simply take a stroll and enjoy the flora.
FOOD
Food is a highlight here, hands-down. We would go back just for the food.
Breakfast
Breakfast is included in your room tariff. What you get is an unlimited spread of authentic Kerala dishes. Idiyappam, Appam, Omelette, some vegetable preparation like Green Peas or Grams, are served.
Fresh Lake Fish
Also, no one should miss the fish preparations from here. Order Karimeen fry, Tiger Prawns fry, Fish curry Kerala style and eat like never before. We were left asking for more. We even requested that they make us fish to carry back so we could savor the taste one final time on our train journey while returning home. Very sweetly they obliged and made us some super amazing Prawns Masala and Chapatis.
Others
You could also enjoy the authentic Kerala Parotha and Chicken Masala which were to die for. They also cater to requests like salads, teas, fruits, etc. as per the availability. You will have absolutely no issues with food here whatsoever.
EXPERIENCES
Anshad is lovely to talk to. He will help you plan your entire stay and suggest to you how to go about your activities.
Relax
Really, relax, read a book, keep staring at the lake, repeat. The surrounding is so calm and quiet, you would fall asleep on the hammocks. Take it slow and just be. You deserve it and this place allows you to.
Shikara ride
Hire a Shikara on an hourly basis to take you around the Vembanad lake towards the Kumarakom bird sanctuary and Pathiramanal Island. The boat picks you right at the homestay and drops you back. How cool, right?
Hire Bicycles
One can hire bicycles and traverse around the narrow village lanes at their own pace. What better way to enjoy the countryside!
Ayurveda Massage
Indulge in a relaxing and rejuvenating Ayurveda massage at their sister property Shanthitheeram Lakeside Heritage Resort. The masseuse lady Asha who attended me was amazing at the craft and had over 27 years of experience. I was thoroughly relaxed post my hour-long deep tissue massage.
Visit Nearby attractions
There are many places one can head to from here. Marari beach, Alleppey Beach, The Arthunkal Church, Coir Museum, Alleppey lighthouse, Kumarakom bird sanctuary and much more.
We would say, our Kerala trip was complete only after staying at this cosy homestay. Living with the locals, hearing stories of their childhood, and eating with them gives us pure joy. We were happy to stumble upon this gem. If you have any queries please feel free to comment below or DM us on Insta, we are quite active there. Do let us know whether you liked this recommendation.
