Tucked away in the mist-kissed hills of Coorg, where coffee blossoms perfume the air and the world slows to a tranquil rhythm, stand two storied estates: Old Kent and The Hallery. These elegant homesteads are more than just places to stay; they are a living legacy, a shared story of nature, nostalgia, and tranquility, lovingly preserved by the Buhari family. Once the private residences of pioneering British planters, they have been carefully restored since the 1960s to offer a rare and immersive glimpse into a genteel, bygone era. While each property has its own distinct personality, they are united by a deep commitment to authenticity, aesthetic beauty, and sustainable living.
Old Kent Estates & Spa: A Retreat in Refined Luxury
Founded in 1864 by Lt. Colonel W.R. Wright, a distinguished British officer and a founding member of the Coorg Planters Association, Old Kent spans 200 acres of flourishing coffee and spice plantations. It is here that history feels most palpable. The main lodge, a renovated British-era bungalow, is perched at a vantage point, offering sweeping verandahs and panoramic views of the valley below. Inside, the lodge is a tribute to its past, featuring Col. Wright’s Study -a curated library where time seems to stand still -alongside a cozy children’s room, Leslie’s Lounge, a home theater, and Gordon’s Saloon, a formal dining room perfect for an intimate meal.
Guests are invited to choose from eight English-style cottages, each a private sanctuary with a suite, a sky-lit bathroom, and a private garden. For a touch of romantic indulgence, some cottages even include open-air jacuzzis. For larger families, the eleven vintage suites, replete with handpicked period furnishings, offer breathtaking vistas of Coorg’s famous rolling hills and misty mornings.
A stay at Old Kent is a journey in itself. Days are spent exploring the estate’s plantation trails or participating in a “crop-to-cup” experience that traces coffee’s journey from a humble bean to a brewed masterpiece. After a day of exploration, the estate’s signature spa offers a haven of rejuvenation with a range of Ayurvedic and Western therapies. The culinary experience is a highlight, too, with local and seasonal cuisines, alongside a variety of Indian and continental delicacies, all prepared with a homemade warmth using the freshest ingredients sourced from the estate itself. Old Kent is the perfect escape for honeymooners, wellness seekers, or anyone in search of solitude and old-world elegance.
The Hallery: Nature-Immersive and Homely
Just a short drive away lies The Hallery, nestled in the historic village of Haleri, once the seat of the Haleri Kings, Coorg’s last sovereigns. It was here, in 1863, that Frank Mangles introduced European coffee cultivation, a legacy that continues to thrive. Today, The Hallery offers a more intimate and hands-on alternative to its sister property.
The heart of The Hallery is the Mangles Bungalow, where timeless tradition meets quiet sophistication. Its four interconnected suites, each painted in seasonal hues, are characterized by high ceilings, antique furnishings, and grand four-poster beds. The two charming manager’s cottages -named Rosarium and Cinnamon -exude rustic elegance with their sun-drenched verandahs and vaulted wood ceilings. With only eight rooms in total, the estate has a wonderfully personal atmosphere, where every guest is welcomed as part of the family.
The Hallery invites guests to step into a more playful, hands-on experience. Activities include visiting a working dairy farm, feeding animals at the petting zoo, discovering a private waterfall, or learning about apiculture. Guided walks through the plantation reveal the vibrant stories of the land and its rich biodiversity.
Culinary offerings here are a heartfelt tribute to Coorgi and South Indian cuisine – fresh, nourishing, and soul-warming. Meals, often made with ingredients from the estate, are enjoyed al fresco at “The English Rosarium,” a tranquil garden dedicated to the cultivation of roses. Historically, a rosarium was a sanctuary – a place for poets, lovers, and nature to thrive – and this one is no exception. The Hallery reflects a lifestyle that is both poetic and grounded, ideal for families, nature lovers, and experiential travelers.
Two Estates, One Living Legacy
Though unique in character, Old Kent and The Hallery are bound by a singular purpose: to offer immersive, heritage-rich stays that honor their past while embracing the needs of today’s conscious traveler. Guests are invited to do more than just sip the estates’ award-winning coffee; they are encouraged to understand its journey from blossom to brew, connecting them deeply with Coorg’s agricultural and cultural heritage.
As Mr. Sadat Sathak, the fourth-generation owner and CEO, shares, “My great-grandfather purchased these estates after our Independence. For five decades, they were our cherished family holiday home, a treasure trove of nostalgic memories. We invite you to walk their trails, share our stories, and savor Coorg’s timeless charm. Come as guests, and leave as friends!”
This sentiment is echoed by Mr. Abraham Philip, the General Manager, who explains, “We offer something rare – a true estate stay, an immersive experience in nature rooted in legacy and refined hospitality. Every detail is thoughtfully curated, every experience personal. It’s this blend of agri-tourism, heritage, and exclusivity that creates lifelong memories and makes every stay truly unforgettable.”
Whether you seek a romantic retreat, a wellness escape, or a nature-rich family holiday, the Heritage Estates of Coorg invite you to step into another time – a world of misty mornings, meaningful moments, and the quiet luxury of nature, nostalgia, and tranquility.
