The Dunnottar Bungalow

Six of us stayed in the South Bungalow for a reunion, and the location was hard to beat - Kodaikanal Lake is literally just outside the gate, so we could step out for a walk whenever we felt like it. Breakfast in the garden was the highlight: genuinely magical idlis, dosas, chutney, and sambar, with the six of us sitting outside and letting a long catch-up stretch well into the morning. In the evening, the bungalow team set up a complimentary bonfire for us, which was the perfect setting to sit together and carry on talking into the night. The bungalow and grounds are beautifully kept, the staff took care of everything without ever being intrusive, and it felt like exactly the kind of place you want for a few days with old friends.

The hospitality, food and luxurious property. Travelling with small children can be hectic, lots of logistics! But none of that here. A high chair and a crib were set up before we arrived, and the staff were warm with us and genuinely warm with the kids. The food was the highlight (home-cooked South Indian tiffin breakfasts in the garden). They arranged a horse to come to the bungalow for a private half-hour ride for the kids. An acre of lawn for them to run on! And Kodaikanal Lake straight outside the gate for walks. Wood-fired pizza and a bonfire once they were asleep. Spotless throughout.