Exotic Hideaway

Twenty-two acres of sun, sea and sand beckon Susan George to Fisherman’s Cove, one of Chennai’s icons of indulgence

Perched on the stump of a palm tree, under the canopy of stars, the sea an animated backdrop to the setting, you think things can’t get more exotic. Complement the scene with authentic Mediterranean cuisine, and the rustic-meter notches up further. If you’re a firm believer in ‘food maketh the vacation’ dictum, the al fresco dining experience at Upper Deck in Fisherman’s Cove comes highly recommended. Says Executive Chef Fabian, “People enjoy the rustic atmosphere. The cuisine, I would say, is easygoing - Mediterranean, with an accent on Italian and Lebanese. Many people from the city drive out here just to come to the restaurant.”

Lying languidly off the East Coast Road, with the Bay of Bengal quietly hugging it, is Taj Fisherman’s Cove - a landmark for leisure in Chennai since 1974. When it comes to indulgence in the city, there’s no place quite like it. Steering clear of the ostentatious, the resort allows the picturesque setting to speak for itself. The open-air lobby, scattered with elegant wicker sofas, is refreshingly different. Dappled sunlight streams into the lobby and one can catch glimpses of the 10,000 square feet aquamarine pool, complete with a sunken bar.

The resort offers up a range of options for the gourmand. True to its reputation as a beach resort, Bay View Point, the thatched eat-out by the beach, is the perfect place to tuck in - especially if you enjoy just-caught seafood. You can watch your favourite dishes cooked right before your eyes at the special show kitchen at Seagull, the resort’s multicuisine restaurant.

Your frazzled nerves can get adequate therapy at the sea-facing villas, with the wind whipping your face as you lounge on the hammock suspended in the private garden. A traditional wooden Chettinadu swing in the verandah beckons you to put your feet up, while watching the waves dance ashore. And for the wickedly exotic touch, how about open-air garden shower attached to the cottage? Spa Vyana at the resort is a beckoning option for those who want to wrap themselves in garments of blissful sloth. Tastefully designed, the spa, run by Biotique, comprises a gymnasium, parlour, a couple’s suite, and exclusive men’s and women’s sections. Cosset yourself with a one-hour massage in the couple’s suite, with your significant other. The masseurs discreetly make their exit, leaving you two to enjoy the luxurious soak tub, and the outdoor garden shower.

For the more adventurous, a catamaran ride with the local fisherman would be just the thing. Haul in the catch of the day, while nature gets your adrenaline quotient pumping. Volleyball games, dune buggy rides and hiking ensure the perfect compass of choices for those on the go. While its heart is set on leisure, Fisherman’s Cove is also a prime convention destination for corporate executives. The sandy stretch on the beach can accommodate about 3,000 people, while an indoor 4,000 sq ft convention centre holds about 300. However, the work hard, party harder mandate holds good - from rustic south Indian to the wild pirates, theme parties hold sway, creating unforgettable memories.