Mahabalipuram is a quaint city blessed with magnificent beaches, beautiful plantations, gorgeous temples, vivid scenic beauty, friendly people and much more. The last year was a blessed one as we got to experience this beautiful city courtesy the Grande bay Resort. The luxury hotel comprises of efficient service coupled with amenities that make the experience worth remembering.
Location
The hotel is the definition of modern, luxury functionality but the location rules out everything. If you are hungry for some beach fun, this place should be the one to book. It is literally a 5 minute walk to the main beachside.
How to reach there
The hotel is about 2 hours away from Chennai. The hotel is strategically located in the heart of Mahabalipuram so tourists can visit the sightseeing places conveniently.
There is nothing quite like a hotel that offers high end service, has an amazing location, crisp bed-linen you want to curl up in and has all the luxury benefits. The Grande Bay Resort deserves the crown for the most luxurious hotel in Mahabalipuram. Luxury and Sustainability have never been so compatible.
The welcome experience at Grande Bay Resort
After being picked up, we reached the hotel in the afternoon. As the cab moved towards the hotel, huge swaying coconut trees welcomed us. The weather was perfect and the moment dreamy. As we checked in, we were immensely impressed with the stunning décor and style. Huge spaces with comfortable seating, subtle color and marble flooring bagged ten stars immediately, while the warm welcome by the Manager made us feel at home instantly. We were offered welcome drinks and were ushered to the room.
Our room @ Grande Bay Resort
The rooms are divided into Grande Studio, Chalet, Duplex, Sea View
After a speedy, friendly check in we were shown to our room: Grande Studio, located near the poolside. As you wander the corridors it’s fascinating to look at the manicured lawns and spotless clean passage towards the rooms.
Our room was incredibly spacious and came with the perfect view of the pool. It was spacious with very stylish décor, had high ceilings, large sash windows that opened up to a private sit out area with sprawling greenery. The highlight of the room was the color red, which instantly caught our attention. The spacious wardrobes, kettle with tea coffee added to the extra touches of hospitality. It was all about the little details that make the stay comfortable.
The Dining experience @ Grand Bay Resort
L’attitude 49
We were on a half board basis, which meant we had lunch and dinner at the hotel during our one night stay in Grande Bay. We were in the main dining room where a grand buffet with Indian and continental dishes are served. The chef of the hotel ensures guests are served with an interesting mélange of flavors through a wide selection of dishes from the South and other provinces.
Their breakfast buffets are simply amazing. A wide array of choices coupled with fresh fruit juices, concoctions, tea and coffee completes the breakfast feast. The freshness of each dish is evident in their preparation and serving. It shows the consistency and ardent dedication of the chef who loves creating masterpieces and serving guests.
After a nice lunch at the restaurant, I took a walk towards the beach. Barely few minutes away from the hotel, the clean beach simply washes away traces of tiredness. As I watched the soft sand being caressed by the waves, my soul felt satiated. I moved back to the hotel after some time as it was nearly time for my pre-booked spa treatment.
Spa
I had opted for an aromatherapy massage at their spa. I decided to take a dip in their chlorine free pool – which is an experience of being totally immersed in bright turquoise blue.
The spa is a paradise for relaxation and rejuvenation. The serene atmosphere with a divine aroma instantly calms the nerves while the soothing vibe of the place engulfs your senses. The spa rooms are spacious with jaccuzzi, steam and shower facilities.
For my aromatherapy massage, organic oils (which smelled divine) are used. After a gentle foot reflexology session, my therapist began the aromatherapy session. As I lay on the bed, my therapist happily told me that I have a lot of tightness on my shoulders. I was feeling at ease as she gradually eased off the tension with soft gentle strokes and adding pressure points. The tension was gradually wearing off and I was already feeling relaxed. I was ushered to the steam room for a ten minute session to help the oil seep inside the skin. I have to admit the entire session was blissful.
Tea corner
A very interesting concept following the chai stall makes the tea drinking experience worth cherishing. They have a wide variety of tea for guests to make to add a twist to the beverage. They also have innovative snacks, cakes and biscuits to add to the tea drinking experience.
Activities
The hotel takes care of taking the guests for sightseeing and enjoying the beauty of Mahabalipuram. The cabs are always clean and well equipped with towels, water to ensure the journey is enjoyable and hassle free. Night safari, boat rides, cycling tours and heritage walks are some of the activities that guests and enjoy. We had a great time as they took us on an early morning visit to the two towered Shore temple symbolizing Pallava architecture, Arjuna’s penance – a masterpiece of stone work and Five Rathas – buildings carved from single large rocks.
What we loved the most
What we loved most about Grande Bay was the spacious rooms, the amazing food, their spa & pool area and access to the beach. This hotel has really taken its commitment to luxury and sustainability more seriously than I have seen anywhere.
Address
ECR, Kovalam Road
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 104
India
