Hidden away in the lush greenery of Coorg in Karnataka, Timbertales is a luxury eco-retreat that offers a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and sustainability. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a family vacation, this serene hideaway immerses guests in the beauty of the Western Ghats while providing world-class hospitality.
Imagine waking up to the calls of exotic birds, and the gentle rustling of leaves while the misty warm morning air of Coorg envelopes your balcony. Timbertales transports you to a world of serenity and natural beauty.
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The resort is designed to harmonise with its surroundings, offering guests a true escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you prefer sipping coffee while admiring panoramic views, taking a nature walk, being pampered with a soothing massage or exploring the rich biodiversity of the area, Timbertales sets the perfect stage for relaxation and adventure.
A special thank you to the team at the Karnataka Tourism Society and Timbertales for hosting me during my stay at Timbertales. All opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
In this post, we’ll explore everything that makes Timbertales a must-visit destination – from its prime location and unique accommodations to its exceptional amenities and sustainability initiatives.
Welcome to Timbertales
Opened in January 2025, Timbertales eco-resort blends seamlessly into the landscape. Surrounded by 100 acres of lush tropical forest and coffee plantations, it is the ultimate retreat where you feel immersed in nature.
Just outside Madikeri, enter the magical serenity of Timbertales. The long driveway twists its way through the forest, taking you further and further away from the noise and stresses of everyday life into the tranquillity of the resort.
Under the sweeping roof of the impressive bamboo reception area, refresh with a welcome drink and cool towel, while you check-in. The reception area is stunning, simple and elegant with seating areas and a viewing point at the back overlooking the forest and jungle below.
As the resort is quite spread out, buggies take you to your villa. The buggies are also used between the restaurants, spa or pools. You can walk, of course, but I must admit I did get lost a couple of times.
Why Timbertales Stands Out
Timbertales is strategically located in Coorg, one of Karnataka’s most scenic regions, renowned for its coffee plantations, rolling hills, and waterfalls. Situated away from the crowded tourist spots, this retreat provides guests with an exclusive and intimate experience while still being close enough to explore the area’s main attractions.
Coorg is often referred to as the “Scotland of India” due to its breathtaking landscapes and cool climate. Timbertales enhances this experience by offering accommodations that blend seamlessly with nature, giving you a front-row seat to some of the most stunning views in the region.
Timbertales nestles in 100 acres of lush jungle forest with lakes, winding trails and an exceptional amount of birds and wildlife. Using my Merlin bird identification app, I pinpointed over 12 different bird songs. Seeing them was a bit more of a challenge, but I heard White-Cheeked Barbet, Red-Whiskered Bulbul, White-Throated Kingfisher and the ever-present Indian Peafowl.
Accommodation Options: Suites and Villas
Timbertales offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences, from luxurious suites to villas with pools, all designed with an emphasis on comfort, aesthetics and cradling you in nature. The architecture incorporates locally sourced materials, creating a rustic yet elegant feel.
All the rooms are more than generous with sitting rooms, elegant four-poster beds and large bathrooms. The baths have whirlpools and jets for extra luxury and the showers have the option of a hand-held or large overhead showers. In the Forestlight Luxury Villa there is even the option of having an open-air shower, connecting you with nature in a unique way.
The floor to ceiling windows in all the villas give you beautiful views over the forest and jungle. There is an inner mosquito screen if, like me, you want to sleep with your doors open. Otherwise, there is air-conditioning to keep you cool or warm you up.
The rooms have USB sockets and several 2 plug sockets by the bed which take normal UK plugs. In the sitting room area, there is a kettle and a range of teas and coffees, while on the coffee table, there are a selection of nuts in jars and a delicious pot of fruit in jelly.
Riverstone Family Villa
During my two-night stay at Timbertales, I stayed in a Riverstone Family Villa. Entering the villa, I was impressed with the spacious layout of the rooms.
With a comfy sofa and chairs in the sitting room, pull back the curtains and step out onto the balcony to take in the scenery.
The bedroom has a large four-poster bed with luxurious white bedlinen and a deep comfortable mattress, you definitely have a good night’s sleep. There is plenty of storage for clothes with hanging space and chest of drawers.
The Riverstone Villa is single storey, but it has a connecting door and staircase to the villa above/below, which is handy for families or friends staying together, but still wanting their own space.
Windchimes Duplex Villa
Similar to the Riverstone Family Villa, the Windchimes Duplex is on two levels. With a large airy sitting room on the upper floor with floor to ceiling windows leading to the balcony.
Below is the sumptuous bedroom and bathroom with double sinks and jacuzzi bath.
Mistwood Pool Villa
Step into your serene Mistwood villa. The cosy sitting room leads directly onto your balcony and into your private, outdoor infinity pool. Laze in your pool while you are surrounded by nature. The Mistwood Villas are discreet, romantic and merge seamlessly into the woodland.
The balcony connects the sitting room and the bedroom. With its large four-poster bed and and ensuite terracotta coloured bathroom, the bedroom is a cocoon of luxury.
Forestlight Luxury Villa
The turquoise front door of the Forestlight Villa opens into a tranquil private covered courtyard with comfy seating and outdoor eating area. There is even a hammock to snooze in the heat of the day.
The luxurious bedroom faces the floor to ceiling glass doors which open out to the infinity pool and plunge pool and the glorious view of the jungle beyond. Chill out on the wicker leaf shaped loungers in the pool and let the world pass by.
The bathroom is hidden behind the bedroom area. With large walk-in shower and double sink area with large mirrors. A few steps take you out to the outdoor shower, a wonderful way to shower in nature.
The eight Forestlight villas are largest of the villas and are ideal if you want a private hideaway.
Sunbeam Presidential Villa
Currently being constructed, the top tier suite is the Sunbeam Presidential Villa. Completely private and the ultimate in luxury.
Dining Delights: Restaurants, Bars and Coffee Hangouts
Timbertales takes pride in its culinary offerings, serving delicious meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Madikeri and Mysore. Plans to set up their own farm and grow as much as possible in-house are being put in place.
Bamboo Buzz – Coorgi delicacies and more
Under the undulating bamboo roof, Bamboo Buzz is open for breakfast, lunch or dinner. From local Coorgi cuisine, international dishes to just a coffee or chai with a delicious biscuit, Bamboo Buzz is the perfect place to sit and take in the views.
Overlooking the lake, Bamboo Buzz has three seating areas, two covered and one open patio area if you want to warm yourself in the sun.
Bamboo Buzz offers a menu of global cuisines including Asian, Oriental and Italian and daily chef’s specials.
For breakfast try a delicious plate of fruits, granola, curry or indulge is some melt-in-the-mouth pastries – all freshly made in the kitchens. Sip on a freshly brewed cup of coffee from local growers, a cup of tea or fresh juices.
With over 250 custom-prepared dishes, dinner is a delight. All the dishes are tempting and you can mix and match your food to your mood.
Twisted Basil – green gastronomy
Push open the door of Twisted Basil and enter a serene and unique restaurant. The seating is arranged around a pool with a tinkling water fountain and tropical vegetation.
Tables are set in one of the private booths around the pool, making it a romantic rendezvous for lunch or dinner or a fun place to eat. Each booth has a bamboo roof and is surrounded by lush foliage to give you ultimate privacy, while still giving you stunning views into the surrounding jungle.
The gourmet seven course meal experience at the Twisted Basil entirely vegetarian There is a choice of four menus to choose from: Continental, Pan Asian, Make your Own Menu or Chef’s Special.
Modur Kaapi
Sit back, absorb your surroundings, while you enjoy your coffee (and maybe a bit of cake) under the bamboo canopy of Modur Kaapi. Select a book from the library and lose yourself in its pages.
With no walls, you immerse yourself in the nature around. The birds, the scents, the gentle swaying of the jungle all lull you into a peaceful state.
The name Modur comes from one of the oldest coffee plantations in Coorg which is nearby.
The Cellar Lounge
With a well-stocked bar and a curated selection of wines, craft cocktails, and fresh fruit juices, the Cellar Lounge is the perfect place to chill out before or after dinner.
The cosy leather seating gives and elegant high stools around the bar make it the ideal place to watch the sun and carry on into the night.
Relaxation and Recreation: Spa, Pool, Yoga and Fitness Centre
At Timbertales, relaxation is just as important as adventure. Guests can indulge in a variety of wellness and recreational activities. Included in the packages that Timbertales offers is one 60-min therapy per day.
Viyoma – Nurturing Wellness
Viyoma is the dedicated wellness centre offering Ayurvedic massages, aromatherapy treatments, and rejuvenating facials. Lie back and let the world disappear as you indulge in a spa treatment. Professional therapists ensure a deeply relaxing experience.
Experience an exquisite Turkish Hammam with a traditional steam bath. Gentle scrubs will exfoliate your skin while a relaxing massage will rejuvenate and refresh your skin.
Fitness Centre
For those who want to maintain their fitness regime, the fitness centre offers a range of activities.
With panoramic views over the forest, the running machines, exercise bikes and rowing machines make your exercising more pleasurable. There are also free weights, kettle bells and a range of mats and accessories for yoga or Pilates sessions.
Within the changing rooms are a steam room, sauna with heated back massagers and a small jacuzzi to cool off in. On the on the balcony there are swing seats to relax in and watch the world go by.
Outdoor Pools
Open from 7 am to 7 pm, the infinity pool is an excellent spot for a morning swim or a peaceful evening dip. Just down from the Bamboo Buzz restaurant, the pools look out over the lake which makes you feel as if you are one with nature.
Surrounded by lush greenery, the pool has changing rooms and seating areas to relax after your swim.
Yoga Deck & Meditation Spaces
Slip your shoes of and step onto the yoga deck. The calming space looks out over the lake and is the ideal place for morning yoga while the sun rises or breathe in the scents of the day during an evening session.
Adventure & Activities
Timbertales is not just about beautiful accommodations — it’s all about the experience. The retreat offers a range of amenities that cater to every type of traveller. There are no extra charges for nature walks, kayaking, or any other activity. It’s all inclusive in the stay package.
Guided Nature Walks & Wildlife Spotting
Take a trek, hike or gentle stroll to explore the surrounding forests and coffee plantations. Led by an expert guide offering insights into the region’s rich flora and fauna. Coorg is home to a diverse range of bird species.
Cycling Trails
Enjoy a cycle ride through scenic paths surrounding the retreat. You can borrow a bike and take a guided tour through the resort.
Take to the Water
Set out in a kayak to explore the lake. Maybe take a fishing rod and try your luck with the fish, or just paddle gently absorbing the sounds of nature around you. Look out for the flashes of turquoise of the White-Throated Kingfisher while they hunt for small fish from the banks.
Sustainability Initiatives: How This Hotel Supports the Environment
Timbertales is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and has the following initiatives:
- Eco-Friendly Construction: Built using laterite stone, local materials and bamboo.
- Solar Energy: Utilizes solar panels to reduce its carbon footprint.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Ensures efficient water usage.
- Waste Management: Implements composting and recycling programs.
- Supporting Local Communities: Partners with local farmers and artisans for sourcing food and decor and many of the people who work at Timbertales are local.
- Caring for wildlife: around the resort, efforts have been made to encourage wildlife in a natural way, including insect hotels.
Tips for Booking: Best Times to Visit, Deals, and Packages
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
- Monsoon Magic: June to September offers lush landscapes and misty mornings, ideal for nature lovers.
- Exclusive Offers: Look out for seasonal discounts and packages that include guided tours and spa treatments.
Personal Experience: Highlights from My Stay
I was fortunate enough to have two nights stay at Timbertales. I stayed in a Riverstone Family Villa, which was perfect for me.
I was truly captivated by the tranquil surroundings and impeccable service. Waking up to the chorus of birds and sipping my coffee on the balcony while overlooking misty hills was an unforgettable experience.
I love exploring just after dawn, when no-one else is about and the birds are just waking up. Walking around Timbertales with the mist over the lake and the stunning colours of the jungle being revealed was magical.
The food was exceptional – each meal was a delightful blend of local flavours and fresh ingredients with international cuisine available too.
If you’re seeking a place that combines luxury with nature, Timbertales is the perfect retreat.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Timbertales in Coorg is more than just a place to stay, it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, an adventure-filled holiday, or a cultural immersion, this retreat has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Coorg, I highly recommend adding Timbertales to your itinerary. Book early to secure the best rates and enjoy a slice of paradise in Karnataka’s coffee country.
Important Information about Timbertales
Timbertales Contact
Address: 94/2 Kedakal Post, Modur, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka 571237
Tel: +91 98459 11234
Check-in from: 14:00 to 23:00
Check-out: until 12:00
Click To book: Timbertales
How to get to Timbertales
By road – whether you travel by car, tuk-tuk or coach, you come of Modhur Road and drive down the long track to the reception. Note that some of the bends are quite sharp and may be unsuitable for long coaches or vehicles.
There is parking and an EV charging station if needed during your stay.
Helicopter – with a helipad on site, the ultimate way to arrive in style is by helicopter. Please contact the hotel for details
Use these India Travel Tips to plan your adventure!
- Plan your trip with these India Travel Guides.
- Take a guided tour with one of G Adventures India trips
- Get the best deals on flights with Skyscanner.
- Find the perfect place to stay in India on Booking.com.
- Buy your e-sim before you go with Airalo.
- Explore more about India with local experiences.
- Don’t forget to arrange your travel insurance.
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Gorgeous photos. Love the look of the views – and the food! Sounds like a peaceful place to stay.
It was a stunning place to stay and the food was amazing!