We holiday in Kerala nearly every year for at least 6 weeks and this was our 4th visit to Varkala, Going for a month this time we wanted to try somewhere new. We don't look for high end, luxurious accommodation, just somewhere comfortable, friendly and with a pool... and that's what we got.
After a few initial issues we ended up in a very nice room thanks to the concern and help from Anandhu and his staff. Suffice to say that we had a long relaxing holiday despite damaging my foot badly at the beginning, eased considerably by the support from the staff and our auto rickshaw driver.
The food at the hotel was good; however, unfortunately on the first night the manager introduced us to the nearby JaiRam Cafe on the cliff and we almost never left!
We understand people may have there reservations about such hotels and probably higher standards (or are just fussy) but for us this was almost perfect and we intend to return next year.

Like others on here I am loathe to give a poor review but given the amazing holiday we had overall wanted to give an honest picture of our stay over Xmas. Firstly some pro's
1. The hotel is in a really good location and is a lovely building (outside)
2. Its near to the black beach and the aquarium but is only two minutes from the north cliff
3. Air con worked a treat
Cons
1. We had the breakfast on the first day and didn't go back - really poor. The 'eating area' was under construction and not set up at all for catering in any way. Basically it was table and chairs under a cover outside the hotel. Floors were being put down and walls painted during our stay.
2. The pool whilst a fair size was murky and looked odd - the kids used it a couple of times but I didn't trust it
3. We had a deluxe room but it was really spartan - towels were really stained, shower didn't work, no hot water - no pictures on the wall etc
4. Ambience - none. We seemed to be the only guests there in December. On our last night another family arrived at short notice they had been travelling and were looking for accommodation.
5. Assistance - almost none. No offer to bring (already paid for) breakfast to room when the dining area was clearly non existent, asked for help to buy train tickets "just go and buy them".Barely said hello and goodbye.Most of the staff were on their phones.
We tried to find other places to stay after a couple of nights but couldn't find one as it was December 25th by this point.
Would we go again ? No.
Not sure who is writing these amazing reviews.

To sum up could be amazing due to its location and the building but desperately needs to up its game