The resort is a 'poem' in itself and do not be surprised if the 'dreamer' in you continues to hover with a reverie. The breath-taking view of the lake, the tranquility of the backwaters were all in harmony with the lush-green nature. This is one of the best locales that Club Mahindra has taken up and continues to maintain. Undoubtedly, the place is calm, far from the cacophonous noise of the cities, offers an excellent spa, and makes you linger in your holiday even after you have left the place. The staff: reception, restaurant, or the housekeeping were really efficient and quick. Food was tasty, that we could see emptied containers in a jiffy. Fun Dining used to be fun (not any more... i have written an elaborate review on the Kodagu Valley, Coorg: http://www.tripadvisor.in/ShowUserReviews-g641714-d1156207-r144911951-Club_Mahindra_Kodagu_Valley-Madikeri_Kodagu_District_Karnataka.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT). In short, it was a widespread buffet (breakfast+lunch+dinner) for a couple, which costed around 1350/-. Not anymore!! and that's sad and NO FUN!! Bring back FUN DINING!
A few things, which I noticed and provided feedback to the resort admins. I hope they have been taken care of. If someone here, who reads my review has a chance of going to the BackWater Retreat at Ashtamudi, please do take a look at the following aspects and let me know if the feedback has been implemented! - Thanks in advance.. :)
1. The restaurant needs to be expanded, it gets too crowded for lunch, especially.
2. The dishes at the restaurant were not clean. I mentioned this to the restaurant manager and at the reception also. The dishes have to be cleaned well and kept dry, so that the guests are not put off. We observed particles of food in the washed dishes when we went to pick up food.
3. Activities at the activity center are fewer when compared to the Munnar and Goa club Mahindra properties.
4. The food (desserts especially) can be of a wider spread. We missed the pastries and sweets that we got at the Poovar Resort. We moved to the Ashtamudi resort from the Poovar Island resort.
5. There was a slightly obnoxiuos smell in the bathroom in the floating cottage. This was seen from day one.
6. Finally, the staff (except for one or 2, such as the chef Rateesh. Rateesh was very receptive of our suggestions and always had a smiling face) can have a bright smile to welcome and serve the guests. :)
I think if these concerns are fixed, the Ashtamudi resort can soon be a number 1 resort. We would definitely want to go back to this resort again and soon!
Three-cheers to Club Mahindra!
