We refer to Kerala’s spice belt as the rural expanse which lies between the backwaters and the Western Ghats. This is a broadly-defined area of tropical vegetation, lush working plantations and attractive temples, dotted with heritage estates and homestays. These small rural retreats are excellent stop off points between coastal and highland Kerala. Each plantation house is slightly different in character, but all are ideal locations for spending a day or two relaxing and enjoying the verdant Keralan countryside.