Taj Fisherman's Cove
Mahabalipuram

Built amongst the ruins of an 18th century Dutch Fortress just south of Chennai, Vivanta by Taj - Fisherman's Cove is set above a beautiful stretch of pristine beach with panoramic views over the glittering Bay of Bengal.

To complement its historical setting, this modern and luxurious beachfront hotel offers a quiet retreat surrounded by 22 acres of lush tropical gardens, which are beautifully maintained. The 88 rooms and cottages are dotted throughout the grounds and the top category rooms are spacious sea facing cottages. They are sleek and minimalist in their design with spacious living rooms, and gorgeous en-suite bathrooms, some with outdoor showers. They also have their own private gardens and decking, with hammocks to provide the ultimate spot to relax, listening to the sounds of the waves crashing against the shore.

Taj’s expected excellent service is accompanied by fresh sea food and a relaxed atmosphere at the hotel’s two restaurants, both mixing traditional Indian flavours and modern cuisine. The Seagull serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers a popular international menu with a mixture of European gastronomy. The slightly more formal Bay View Point equally presents an exquisite alfresco dining experience overlooking the beach with incredible views and a light sea breeze. It specialises in freshly caught seafood and the seafood barbecue nights are not to be missed.

Fisherman’s Cove has an array of activities to choose from, including turtle watching (which is seasonal), catamaran rides, beach volleyball and a variety of water sports. Guests can also try their hand at the traditional sea fishing methods practised by the local fishermen. There are plenty of spots for relaxation as well, including the shaded swimming pool, set in lush tropical gardens at the centre of the hotel grounds, and access to the private library to enjoy one’s holiday reading. For cultural trips, it is also an hour south of the city of Chennai which has excellent shopping and sightseeing, and a twenty-minute drive from the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram – a must visit!

The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling