If you consider Munnar hectic, try Chinnakanal. Fort Munnar Resort is a good option.
Fort Munnar Resort at Chinnakanal, Munnar
This boutique resort hides in the enormous greenery of the Western Ghats, above 6500 ft of sea level.The resort blends well with the surrounding nature, with aura of colonial touch to its architecture.
Sip your morning coffee from the the terrace surrounded by mist covered thicket, and the watch the sun rise from the mountains.
[#road x2] You'll have drive to Chinnakanal from Munnar Town (if you are driving from Tamilnadu side ).Take the Devikulam route. Munnar to Fort Munnar distance is about 35km ( 2 Hrs sneaking through the sprawling tea estates & plantations ).
From Cochin International airport to Fort Munnar Resort, the driving time is approximately 4-5 hours drive ( 140km).
If you are driving from Ernakulam city, take the Muvattupuzha road. Head towards Munnar direction. At Kallarkutty, leave the Munnar road anad take diversion to Vellathooval. Drive past Rajakkad and Rajakumari. The final diversion is at Poopara. Ernakulam to Fort Munnar Resort distance about 150km ( consider 5hrs drive).
Chinnakanal is more sought after location away from the cliche tourism around Munnar. Sterling Munnar Resorts & Hotels, Club Mahindra Mount Serene Resort Munnar are other upscale resort options in the Chinnakanal area.