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Photos: K. Ananthan

For a family outing Ridgeway cottage

The setting is a vintage bungalow atop a tea estate in Kotagiri. Not just the lovely exterior, inside there is enough to make you feel warm and comfortable. Be it the seating, the huge kitchen with enough vessels to feed a bunch of hungry kids, or the well in which pretty white flowers.

The caretaker is the affable Donald Rodrigues, who has a tale to tell you every other minute. He works overtime to ensure you go back with nothing but fond memories.

By itself, Kotagiri is a great bet. It is not as crowded as Ooty or Connoor, and yet offers the discerning tourist a peek at what life in the hills is all about. So what if there are not many touristy shops selling China-made stuff? Life moves at a languorous pace here and you’ll learn to appreciate it.

That is one of the reasons the Century-old house does not resemble a five-star hotel. “This is our family home and we let it out to people who want to spend time with their families. It is not a fully operational guest house. The idea is that people get to enjoy the place. There is no point in keeping such a lovely home locked up; with people, it comes alive,” says Arjun Rebelo, the owner. You have to agree with Arjun. The huge windows in the sitting room provide a ringside view of the hills beyond and the valley below.

The property overlooks a tea garden, and there’s as much greenery as you want to take in. A bird bath made of stone is just the thing to attract birds native to the hills. Sit on the lawn and take in the sights. On really chilly nights, ask for a bonfire. The idea here is that you are comfortable, without the intimidating ambience of a luxury hotel.

There is pleasure in doing your own thing, and this home celebrates that. The cottage has two suites, each with a double and single bedroom with attached bath. The house can comfortably accommodate eight people. More members can make themselves comfortable on the carpets. There is a washing machine for your laundry. A vehicle is available, and Mr. Rodrigues can drive you around for a charge. The best time to visit between February and June and September and November.

Rs. 3,000 for the full house during peak season. Off-season rates vary. Package deals can be worked out. For details, call 093261-41000, e-mail arjunrebelo@yahoo.co.uk, or check out http://www. indiainvites.com/ridgewaycottages/accommodation.htm

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