Fodor's Expert Review Punnamada Resort

Drive 15 or 20 minutes out of the bustling, less appealing Alleppey and you hit the quiet green backwoods of Punnamada Lake, on the backwaters. Small design details and attentive maintenance make this large backwater resort sparkle; its four lakeview rooms with private patios are just steps from the water and set in spacious grounds. The traditional tile-roof buildings have ornate wooden carvings on the facades. Rooms have high ceilings, exposed wooden rafters, and decoratively tiled floors. The furnishings, done in antique style, include canopied beds and planter's chairs. Cushions provide the bright accents. The garden bathrooms are spacious and modern, with elegant wood cabinets and bright-colored glass windows.