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Top Monsoon Spots To Unwind At With Your Loved Ones!

7th June 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged family get together, family holidays, family vacation, farm house near Mumbai, farmstay, Getawayas near Pune, homestay, homestays near Pune, Indian hospitality, Matheran, Monsoon getaway, monsoon getaways, Monsoon getaways near Mumbai, Villas in Ooty, villas in Panvel, villas near Mumbai, Villas near Pune, Weekend Getaway, weekend getaway near MumbaiLeave a comment

Monsoons are round the corner. Enjoy a cup of hot tea lounging atop a hill station. Take a stroll among trees in a light drizzle, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful weather. SaffronStays presents you some monsoon getaway options; in and around Maharashtra.

SaffronStays Fragrant Sun, Mulshi

Perched on a hillside, this earthy home provides a view of the expansive Mulshi lake. This 5-bedroom home is made out of all natural materials. One can take a dip in the lake. Savour the lip-smacking food and unwind in the serenity, the surroundings provide.

SaffronStays River Rock, Panvel

This home boasts of an outdoor Jacuzzi and an amazing view of a bubbling river. And the best part? Its practically 2 hours away from Mumbai! This 2.5 bedroom house is an amalgamation of modern and traditional architecture. Furnished with all modern amenities, this villa gives a homely vibe to the guests.

SaffronStays Verandah By the Valley, Panchgani

Perched on a cliff edge, this home looks over the expanse of the valley in Panchgani. Watch the sun dip low in the horizon. Smell the petrichor and a splash of light drizzle on your face. One can go strawberry or gooseberry picking. Guests can also see beautiful view of the Nagewadi Dam waters from the open deck built at the house.

SaffronStays Calamondinn Bunglow, Coorg

The ambience of a colonial cottage, SaffronStays Calamondinn Bunglow, Ooty is a 6000 square feet heritage bungalow set amidst a coffee plantation. Sit back and relax with a book. Take a walk among the plantations, or just spend time with your loved one. As this home borders the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, guests have a lot of flora and fauna to explore around the home.

SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate, Ooty

Located in one of the very well known destinations for a monsoon getaway, SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate transports guests to another world with its heritage charm. This home has 4 gorgeous suites where guests experience the regal charm of the colonial era. Sit around a bonfire and savour this monsoon weather with your family and friends.

So what are you waiting for? Come, explore these beautiful villas and enjoy monsoon rains to the fullest!

Green Homes, Greener Earth

5th June 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Alibaug, eco friendly, Eco-farmstay, environment day, family, family holidays, farm house near Mumbai, garden view, greenvillas, homestay, Homestays, homestays near Mumbai, Indian hospitality, Pool Villa, saffronstays, Things to do in Coastal Maharashtra, villas, Villas in Alibaug, villas in kamshet, villas in mulshi, villas in vikramgad, Weekend GetawayLeave a comment

Man and nature have coexisted for millions of years now, and over time have developed a unique relationship. As the concrete forests developed rapidly, the green cover of Earth decreased at an alarming rate. It is often seen that man returns to greener pastures to seek solace that’s lost in the hustle bustle of the concrete jungles. This World Environment Day, we at SaffronStays have curated a perfect list of ‘green’ homes featuring landscapes and orchards to reinvent vacations for relaxation.

SaffronStays Ananta, Kamshet

Hidden in the interiors of Kamshet, Maharashtra, spend a weekend amidst mango, jamun and chikoo trees. Enjoy a cup of tea on the breezy bank of Indrayani river, or simply sit underneath the canopies of trees and take in the essence of nature.

SaffronStays Kenwoods and SaffronStays Elfreda, Vikramgad

Two chic homes in the middle of dense groves is the best way to reconnect with nature. Spend the day outdoors among the trees. Or stay in surrounded by handmade artifacts that dot the home. Or take a long romantic walk with your loved one. Every feature about this home makes you leave your phone indoors and help be one with nature.

SaffronStays Fragrant Sun, Mulshi

Experience nature with a bit of a twist. SaffronStays Fragrant Sun is decorated with eco friendly artifacts. Rustic and cozy, these cottages give you a sense of living in a forest cabin. Enjoy your breakfast under vines that form a natural canopy over the concrete community table, ergonomically designed to perfectly blend with its surroundings. A picturesque view of the hills only adds up to the serene beauty of this place. All this made the home win the Eco-friendly Award- SaffronStays Select 2018.

SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal

A picturesque cottage set in the verdant hills of Kodaikanal, SaffronStays Kurinji Estate gives an experience of living in nature’s lap; complete with maintained gardens, stunning views and a 9 acre estate. This home is also the proud winner of SaffronStays Select 2018- Forest Category.

SaffronStays Prana, Alibaug

Encompassed by trees, it gives a rain-forest ambiance to the villa. The canopy over the pool ensures anyone can take a cool dip at any time of the day. Perfectly manicured lawns surround the home. The indoors of the home, too are decorated with plants and succulents.

Additional to these homes, SaffronStays has a wide variety of homes that too fall under ‘green’ homes. What are you waiting for? This World Environment Day, gift yourself a peaceful and relaxing stay-cation amidst nature!

5 Ways Your Vacations Can Benefit The Environment

5th June 2017Posted in Community tourism, Goa, Hosts, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Weekend getawaysTagged Alibaug, farm house near Mumbai, Goa, Goa, homestay, homestay review, homestays in Coastal Maharashtra, Matheran, travelogues, Weekend getaways, Weekend Getaways from MumbaiLeave a comment

Are you a nature lover? Wish to contribute to environment protection? Well, there is an exciting way to do that – make your holiday eco-friendly. How? On World Environment Day we show you how to contribute to the environment while enjoying the abundance of nature.

Plant Saplings: One Seed Bears Many Fruits

Whether by a beach or in the mountains, everyone loves to rest and relax amidst abundant flora. For those escaping the crowded metros of our country, a dash of green is always more soothing than the dull greys that surround us. So, while armchair activism about fewer trees in the vicinity may provide temporary respite to the weary mind, planting saplings, especially of indigenous plants, would be a perfect long-term answer for the greater good. Take Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal for example: This lovely heritage property sits nestled in the midst of an award-winning garden, a percentage of which is the fruit of all its guests. How, you ask? Every guest SaffronStays hosts is gifted a sapling before check-out and can place it anywhere they like on the 9-acre property. Inclusion at its best, innit?

Harvest Water: Each Drop Counts

The fact that our country has to face water scarcity every summer is no news. Interior Maharashtra, the Himalayan region and Central India are some of the worst hit. But you can do your bit by saving your usage of water, and recycling what you can. While lush lawns may look visually appealing, sometimes less is more, and in case of water scarcity, absence can be sweet. The charming owner of L’attitude, Kamshet forfeit the traditional water-guzzling, ecologically disruptive short-grass lawn and planted 108 drought-tolerant trees around the home. Practicality and presentation can always go hand-in-hand. After all, 8^th Grade Environmental Studies was taught for a reason, right?

Create Indoor Gardens: True Beauty Is On The Inside

Remember when your mother said ‘Looks don’t matter till you are actually beautiful from the inside’? While an acne-ridden face could not digest this statement, there is no truer line for a home. Imagine waking up to a stunning garden inside your home, rather than just around it? Fresh air, cool ambiance, branching shade and gorgeous flowers, literally at your doorstep is a perfect setting to grab your morning cuppa. While Master’s Coutryard, Gholvad has a central aangan with bed of trees, the various indoor plants sprouting within Cabo de Goa make both these holiday destinations

Source Locally: Nobody Likes A Foreign Body

Being different and trying to push an exotic concept, be it through architecture, materials or plants may not be the best approach to creating a home. Villa 270°, Dapoli is the epitome of inclusive creation: terracotta tiled roofs, structures made of local laterite stone, vernacular architecture that make the cottages charming, yet conserve the environment.

Ventilate Organically: Natural Is Normal

Summers in India are nothing short of harsh. Imagine planning a getaway and then facing the horrid heat, where even an Air-Conditioner is a mere tool against the forces of nature? But, there is a way to beat the blues organically: Create using the natural pattern of wind to maximise the breeze through windows, and curate using natural plant-based materials like Vetiver (Khas) that can provide a day’s cooling on a few drops of water. Simple and easy, right? The owner and the architect at Maya, Khadakvasla got this formula absolutely bang-on.

So get going, and let’s save the environment!

Gharwale-Baharwale: Families That You Did Not Know Existed

15th May 2017Posted in Community tourism, Maharashtra, Weekend getawaysTagged Anniversary getaway ideas India, family, farm house near Mumbai, father, friends, homestay, homestay review, Homestays, homestays in Coastal Maharashtra, Homestays in India, homestays near Mumbai, international day for families, international family day, Kitty Party, Matheran, mother, old age home, seniors, Things to do in Coastal Maharashtra, train, travelogues, Weekend getaways, Weekend Getaways from MumbaiLeave a comment

Have you ever seen someone’s name flash on your phone and wondered how that person became such an integral part of your life? We all have these friends who walked into our lives unexpectedly and stayed on to become much more. On this International Day of Families, we want to shout out to those ‘families’ who may not be related by blood or name, but those groups whom we cannot imagine our lives without.

Bridge-playing buddies

seniors playing cards bridge — *Friends get better with age.*

Those Sunday afternoons seem so boring without the gang, eh? Ask your parents or your grandparents who their closest pals are and they’ll most likely mention the gang they play cards with at the neighbourhood club. In fact, why limit it to only a gymkhana? This International Day for Families calls for an outing with this bunch, and don’t the weekday prices at most our properties sound lucrative too?

Social Work Club

social workers take a break — *A little breather from work can work wonders.*

So you and a bunch of mates rally together to produce some socially relevant difference to the world? Why not get together today and chill out over a drink. For all the work you guys have done, ya’ll deserve a little break, no? So meet up, discuss the week that was and just unwind after that last piece of activism.

MBA group

If you’ve spent 2 gruelling years with a bunch of individuals who were equally intent on finding themselves and building up their careers, you will know that you all know match on that same wavelength. They say friends made during an MBA course are friends for life. Here’s your chance to put that saying to test: Make sure you and your entire gang land up at a designated bar tonight. Drinks on the last one to arrive!

Co-Teachers

*Nobody gets teachers the way teachers get each other.*

Squabbling kids, botched education systems and immense knowledge are such a great link to connect with others. If you’ve ever been a teacher, you know exactly how important your colleagues from work are. Gather up your co-teachers and head for a relaxing weekend (sans the noise and stress) at Parsi Manor, Matheran. Consider it as a vacation for those who truly deserve it.

Train travellers

*Who said train journeys have to be bad and boring?*

Always catch that 9:14 local, do you? You’ll surely have a train gang then. Given this new age digital boom has left very few people getting their heads out of their devices, but when they do, you’ll see how friendly your train buddies can be. Try exchanging numbers and meeting up outside, and you now have a new group to hang out with!

Hobby class gang

Have you and your significant other signed up for a hobby or health class together? High chance is that you’ll have already formed a clique within the class. Why not plan a trip around the said hobby or health fad? Like practicing some yoga out on the porch at Verandah by the Valley on an early monsoon morning?

Kid’s friend’s parents

This gang of people is one you definitely will not be able to do without. If you’re a kid reading this, you’ll know how close your parents have become. If you’re in your mid-20s, it’s quite possible that you have been out of touch with your school pals, but your parents still get together like a house on fire. And if you’re a parent, the fact that your respective kids spend some 8 hours together, get along perfectly and won’t trouble you while on vacation makes these co-parents just the best travel buddies. Right?

Kitty Party

*Head out of the city for your next kitty party!*

From husband-bashing to ranting against your ma-in-law to discussing the kid’s college and your world tours. Your gang of gal pals is extremely critical for your monthly gossip sesh, and none may deny that. So after all the home and hotel kitty parties you have hosted and attended, it’s time you stepped up your game and stepped out of the city. That’s right! Host a party in a hill station or just take a vacation together. And in case you are looking at ideas for fun games and activities at your do, look no further. We’ve got you, girl.

Neighbourhood Pals

You know those familiar faces in your galli that don’t have names yet whose smiles prove to be just the best pick-me-ups after a long day at work? Next time stop and have a chat with them. Who knows you’ll probably make a new BFF and that smile could mean so much more then!

Here’s to all the small families we build outside our etched ones. Here’s to those who matter too!

ADVENTURES GALORE!!! Beat the #SummerHeat by Stepping Out!

10th May 2017Posted in Coastal Maharashtra, Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, Weekend getawaysTagged farm house near Mumbai, homestay, homestay review, homestay reviews, Homestays, Homestays in India, homestays near Mumbai, Indian hospitality, Kerala homestays, Things to do in Coastal Maharashtra, Travel Ninja, travelogues, Weekend getaways, Weekend Getaways from MumbaiLeave a comment

Hot Water Springs, Dolphins and Tandem Paragliding… sound like some exotic vacation? Guess what? These activities and some more, are right around Maharashtra. If you’re feeling the summer blues, fret not, because we’ve got a list of activities to kiss these feelings a sweet goodbye!

So what are you waiting for? Head out NOW!

Soak yourself in the Hot Springs of Dapoli

Did you know you could step into healing hot water springs so close to home? Well, now you do! Head over to Unhavare for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend of peace and quiet. Our quaint little Villa 270 promises to be the best bet for your Dapoli stay. Cheggit out!

Set Sail in the Seas around Mumbai

*Sailing by the shores of Mumbai is a great way to destress.*

Discover the amazing coastline Mumbai boasts of with a quick sailing trip around the shore. Many clubs around the bay provide extensive sailing classes from introduction level to advance stages. If you are even a day over 15 year, join one of the special summer courses where you can learn to be a pro sailor in just a day!

Contact: Mumbai Sailing Club

Go Up, Up and Away in a Balloon near Lonavala

Always dreamt of going to Bristol or Cappadocia for a scenic Hot Air Balloon ride? Why look so far away when your neighbourhood has an equally eye-catching ride for you? The lush hills of Lonavala are a delight to see from 1200 ft and you must see it to believe it. Go and book your family a trip right now!

Contact: Adventure Nation

Two’s a Company at Kamshet’s Tandem Paragliding

*Go solo or fly tandem! Paraglide away the summer heat.*

Want to fly like a bird, but don’t have the courage to go alone? Don’t worry! Tandem paragliding is an amazing way to get some wind under your wings, quite literally. Head out to Kamshet, the less boisterous version of Lonavala, to enjoy a ride. Or sign up for a certificate course and stay at the gorgeous L’attitude Villa while you grab the ropes of this daring activity.

Contact: Indus Paragliding

Beat the Heat with White Water Rafting in Kolad

Getting into a pool of water is probably the best feeling during the summers. But why stop at that? Jump into a nasty river while you go white water rafting and it shall be one guaranteed great weekend. So gather all your friends and head over to Kolad for a gala time!

Contact: Wild River Kolad

Picture Credit: White Water Mag Ltd,

BONUS!!!

Spot a Beautiful Dolphin off the coast of Mumbai

Dolphins — *Catch a glimpse of these beautiful dolphins right around Mumbai.*

Want another example of how ecologically diverse and rich Mumbai is? Hire a boat and head out just a few nautical miles off the coast of Maximum City and spot bottleneck dolphins with your own eyes! Does sound splendid right? Here’s another summer afternoon planned for you and your family.

Contact: Pelican Sailing School

5 Pure Vegetarian Weekend Stays around Mumbai!

9th September 2015Posted in Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, Weekend getawaysTagged farm house near Mumbai, Homestays, igatpuri, khandala, Konkani Food, Lonavala, long drive, maharashtrian food, meat ban, Mumbai getaways, vegetarian mealsLeave a comment

We feel for all the non-vegetarians cribbing and feeling outraged about the #MeatBan in Mumbai during Paryushan. However, for our vegetarian friends who often feel inconvenienced and uncomfortable eating at places that also serve non-veg (“What if the same utensils are used?”); here’s some relief. No, we aren’t referring to the #MeatBan.

For our vegetarian friends and their families, we bring few quick weekend breaks that serve only VEG meals. Some of them can even prepare Jain meals. Here you needn’t worry if the utensils are used for non-veg preparations. So go ahead and book NOW!

# 01. Igatpuri

Experience the bygone era where the house was lit by natural daylight, large windows with ample of air ventilation and green landscape. With a spectacular look of Darna river in close proximity, you can enjoy the warm sit-out that overlooks the huge lawn and savour your veggie taste buds with delicious local food. Maharashtrian food with a blend of north and south dominates the local cuisine in Igatpuri. Akki roti (rice flour bhakri) is a must try!

Photo Credits: www.thakkara.com — Photo Credits: http://www.thakkara.com

# 02. Ganpatipule, Malgund Beach

Visit the 400 year old Ganesh temple and the serene Malgund beach, both just a hug and nuzzle away from your stay at Ganpatipule. You can also drive along the beautiful coastal stretch of Ratnagiri and visit Thibaw Palace and Ratnadurg Fort. On your return to the bungalow, relax and retreat with mouth watering vegetarian food. The local cuisine is ruled by Konkani food which can bowl over your non-vegan craving anyday! The luscious kokam curry, Ambapoli (Pancake made of dried mangoes), Sabudana Khichdi, and Phanaspoli (Pancake made of dried jackfruit) are few famous dishes. This region is known for jackfruit and the special delicacy which is Modak with a filling of jaggery and coconut.

# 03. Khandala

The Bungalow is a cozy living paradise in the dense foggy mountains of Lonavla-Khandala. This is the right spot to unwind and relax! Enjoy the lovely view of mountains or visit there by yourself. Tiger point, Kune waterfalls and Lion point are in close proximity from this bungalow. Khandala doesn’t really have a standard or unique cuisine but it definitely welcomes to those interested in enjoying simple vegan food. You will find varied options from North-Indian to Gujarati to Chinese cuisines here. The staple food is our very famous Vada Pav with a sprinkle of spicy red chutney.

Vada Pav — Photo Credits: http://www.whatshot.in

# 04. Lonavala

While the brisk of air heralds the end of fall season and it is time to extend a warm welcome to the breeze and sunset at the Tiger point, Lonavala. A popular destination that this is, you will find end number of options for food, especially dhaba’s. But you must try hot masala chai with cheese and corn pakoda’s, onion rings, and fudges if you have a sweet tooth!

Photo Credits: www.medimanage.com — Photo Credits: http://www.medimanage.com

# 05. Palghar

If you are wanting to stress out from your daily routine, this rustic cottage house in Palghar is an ideal place for you to rejuvenate yourself and regain the balance of your chakras through Yoga, detox, and consuming naturally grown clean vegetables for food. The place is eco-friendly in every possible way and serves only VEGAN food! Palghar does not offer much options when it comes to food joints. Thus, making it perfect to enjoy the organic local food served by the tribal community.

Photo Credits: www.blueplanetgreenliving.com — Photo Credits: http://www.blueplanetgreenliving.com

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!

10 Offbeat Weekend Getaways from Mumbai – Part 2

18th February 2015Posted in Coastal Maharashtra, SaffronStays DiariesTagged Bungalows in Lonavala, Dapoli Beach, Farm house in Khopoli, farm house near Mumbai, Ganpatiule Beach Villa, Guhagar Beach Bungalow, homestays in Coastal Maharashtra, homestays near Mumbai, Karjat farm house, Offbeat Stays near Mumbai, Things to do in Coastal Maharashtra, Tree house near Mumbai, Villas in Alibaug, Villas in Lonavala, Weekend getaways, Weekend Getaways from MumbaiLeave a comment

By Sarita Santoshini

We recommended 10 of our offbeat properties a few weeks ago (Read: 10 Offbeat Weekend Getaways from Mumbai ) and overwhelmed by your response, we decided to hand-pick ten more Farm Houses and Villas that you could consider for a weekend getaway from Mumbai.

Select, book and drive away for a break with your loved ones!

#1. Luxury Farm house with a private lake in Karjat

This beautiful farm house, with a man-made private lake circling the property, is spread across 15 acres of verdant land in Karjat, a 2 hour drive away from Mumbai. Skillfully designed by an interior designer, a landscapist and an artist, the farm house is a work of art of its own – there are handcrafted stone sculptures and lanterns, potted plants, and handpicked furniture adding to the charm of the four bedrooms and the rest of the property. There are a number of verandas, artist studios, an inviting pool with space for outdoor lunch, and a foliage-shaded trellis. You can also choose to spend your time biking or fishing.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#2. Lake side retreat in Alibaug

Located in the interiors of the beautiful Chaul village in Alibuag, approximately 15 minute drive from Revadanda beach, is this beautiful luxury property. Spread across 5 acres, it does not just lie surrounded by lush greenery but is also adjacent to a beautiful lake which is a hot spot for migratory birds and spotted ducks – perfect place for walks, fishing and lounging. Other than the 4 spacious rooms that guarantee a comfortable stay, the charm of the cottage lies in the décor of its living room which has been very tastefully done with antiques, comfortable sofas, a small prayer corner and some beautiful Shivaji Maharaja paintings. Outside, there are large outdoor swings, a tiled swimming pool and a large lawn. If you wish, you can even spend a night in a camp outside!

Click here to learn more or to book.

#3. Beautiful Beach Villa in Korlai

About 25 km further from Alibaug is the coastal village of Korlai where this beautiful Beach Villa lies. The Villa stands on a stretch of white sand, with the Arabian Sea in front and green mountains at its backdrop, making it a perfect getaway from Mumbai. You can see hints of Goan and Portuguese style architecture in the interiors of the large living room, dining hall and the two bedrooms, one of which comes with a bunk bed for kids. Outside, there’s a mezzanine, a veranda overlooking the sea, a garden that stretches to the beach, and the Korlai Fort just a short walk away.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#4. A Lovely Villa with a courtyard in Lonavala

Built around a courtyard, which has a 50 year old Jamun tree beautifully towering from its centre, this Villa in Lonavala makes for a perfect weekend getaway with your family or partner. The villa has two charming suits that you can choose from – one on the ground floor that opens out into the veranda and the other on the first floor that comes with a balcony overlooking the garden and the valley. There’s a living room, manicured lawn and plenty of outdoor seating where you can lounge or enjoy the meals which the in-house cook delicious whips up.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#5. A Beautiful Villa near Awas Beach in Alibaug

This gorgeous Villa, with a manicured lawn and swimming pool, lies a short drive away from Mandwa Jetty and a short walk away from the untouristy stretch of Awas Beach. Perfect for a large family or group of friends, the villa has four spacious bedrooms, one of which even has a separate bunk bed for kids. There’s plenty of space to unwind – a lounge room where you can play board games or watch TV, a hall that extends to the deck of the swimming pool, three outdoor pergolas where you can soak up nature or enjoy your meals, a basketball court, and an outdoor Jacuzzi as well.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#6. Cottage surrounded by 6 acres of farm near Khopoli

Located about 100 km from Mumbai and a 30 minute drive from the theme park, Adlabs Imagica, this farm house serves as a perfect culture retreat. You can opt for either the two-bedroom or the three-bedroom cottage, each of which has well-designed bedrooms, a spacious living room and porch areas where you can spend your time unwinding. The highlight of the stay is definitely the local food – the in-house cooks whip up Kolhapuri cuisine, Malvani style cuisine or the lesser known Bhusawal style cuisine as per your request. If you still want to venture out, there’s a stream nearby that you can dip into or you can trek a jungle path that leads to an ancient Jatayu temple.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#7. Ecologically balanced country homes in Pali

Drive 100 km from Mumbai to this off the road property in Pali where the hosts have recreated all the simple elements of village life, like fields, orchards, temple, pond, waterfall, farm animals, and country homes made with natural materials, within seven acres of land. There are cottages themed and designed on the four elements of nature – Jal is a mud and brick cottage that has been beautifully painted by a Warli artist, Vayu is a bamboo cottage, Prithvi is a stone house that has been fashioned like a hunting lodge and comes with a fireplace, and Aakash is a wood cottage that stands tall on stilts. Here, you can simply relax and soak up nature or enjoy simple activities like fishing, rowing, farm visits and bullock cart rides.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#8. Villa near Dapoli Beach

If you’re looking for a place that offers you all the comfort and activity that you seek during a weekend getaway, then these Villas in Dapoli, located 5 hours away from Mumbai, are your best option. There are a number of single bedroom and double bedroom villas to pick from, each of which come with verandas, living rooms and kitchens. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy – cycles are available on rent, there are volleyball and badminton courts, rifle shooting arena, many board games to choose from, and even a guided jungle safari at night. If you want to relax, opt for a spa treatment, fish pedicure or Ayurvedic massage, all available in-house.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#9. Beach View Bungalow in Guhagar

Located in a small fishing village about 280 km from Mumbai and 5 km from the town of Guhagar, atop a small hillock and far away from city life, is this beautiful farm house. It lies nestled between forest cover on one side and a stunning view of Guhagar beach on the other, and makes for an ideal place to experience the unique flavour of Coastal Maharashtra. The simplicity of the rooms is made up for by the large number of activities on offer. Guests can explore the village, go for walks through the forest and opt for bird watching trips with the friendly host who’ll also tell you about the efforts he’s made in the field of agriculture in his village. The 5 hour drive to Guhagar is definitely worth it.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#10. Beach facing Bungalow in Malgund near Ganpatipule

Perfect for a long weekend with the family or friends, these beach facing Villas in Malgund are located about 32o km away from Mumbai and 4 km from the beach town of Ganpatipule. While one Villa comes with two bedrooms and the other with three, both have spacious living rooms, equipped kitchens, and large verandas where you can lounge in the comfortable chairs and enjoy the view of the beach. If you do choose to get out, the hosts readily arrange for beach sports and activities.

Click here to learn more or to book.

Click here to check out other similar stunning homestays in Maharashtra’s pristine coastline – Konkan. A land of untouched beaches, beautiful temples and unexplored backwaters.

And click here to visit SaffronStays and book from more than 1000 homestays across India.

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Which of these retreats would you like to getaway to during the coming weekends? Share with us in your comments.

About the author: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog- http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.

8 leisurely things you could do in Ratnagiri!

9th January 2015Posted in Coastal Maharashtra, SaffronStays DiariesTagged Beaches in Ratnagiri, Chandoli, farm house near Mumbai, homestays in Coastal Maharashtra, homestays near Mumbai, Jetty rides, Konkani Food, National Park, Ratnagiri, Things to do in Coastal Maharashtra, Things to do in Dapoli, Things to do in Ganpatiule, Things to do in Guhagar, Things to do in Ratnagiri, Tree house near MumbaiLeave a comment

Ratnagiri, with its beautiful beach towns and friendly locals, makes for a perfect holiday destination in Maharashtra. The Sahyadris border Ratnagiri to the east and farms of rice, coconuts, cashews and various fruits shade the roads, making it a nature lover’s haven. The region also boasts a prosperous fishing industry which allows for some excellent Konkan cuisine. What is also very interesting is the fact that a lot of locals have started family run Homestays, Bed & Breakfasts and Villas that allow guests simple yet scenic stay options during their getaway. If all this isn’t enough reason to drive down to Ratnagiri, we are sharing 8 things to do here that no one told you about before!

#1. Enjoy Scenic Seashore Drives

While driving from Ganpatipule towards the town of Ratnagiri, the sky and sea blend together to make a blue vista that will keep you company through your travels. The 25 kilometre drive is scenic and calming. A drive to Guhagar (52 kilometres from Ganpatipule) will take you through acres of mango farms and the drive further to Dapoli (46 km from Guhagar) will introduce you to more beaches, small villages, backwaters and shades of green.

Click here to know more about this place

#2. Take leisurely strolls on Unspoilt Beaches

Coastal Maharashtra Homestays — Malgund Beach dotted by a hundred odd migratory sea gulls. Photo by Sarita

If you’re looking for clean, empty beaches, look no further than Ratnagiri. During your drive from Ganpatipule to Ratnagiri, you’ll be tempted to park your car by the road and walk towards the white stretch of white sand. There’s Malgund Beach that remains dotted by migratory birds during winter and Mandvi Beach, which is famous for Ratnadurga Fort at its other end. Guhagar and Dapoli Beach too remain relatively free from crowd and you can enjoy a number of water activities there. Make the time to lounge by the sea-side, soaking in the sun rays of coastal Maharashtra.

#3. Treat yourself to delicious Konkani cuisine

Maharashtra homestays — A delicious Konkani spread . Photo Source : Mid-day.com

Ratnagiri is an ideal district to satisfy your craving for sea food. The Konkani cuisine that is characteristic of Coastal Maharashtra is available in abundance, and is inexpensive, too. These dishes are made by adding generous amount of spices to fares caught fresh from the sea – pompfret, mackerel, surmai, prawns – you name it, you have it. Whether you decide on a beach resort or a roadside dhabba, you will find your tastebuds encountering signature dishes like masala pomfret, Malvan chicken curry and fried prawns with a plate full of rice or stacks of chapati.

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#4. Stay in a beautiful Tree Hut in Dapoli

Playing Tarzan has always been a particularly memorable childhood fantasy for most people. Let the dreams of your infancy take root quite literally at Dapoli, where you can wake up every morning and slumber every night high in your own treetop hut. When you do decide to climb down, there are swings and hammocks in the property to lounge in, adventure sports to indulge in, and outdoor activities like bird watching and mountain climbing to experience. It doesn’t get better than this!

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#5. Spend a day in a hill top farm house in Guhagar

Located in a small fishing village about 5 km from the town of Guhagar, atop a small hillock and far away from city life, is this beautiful farm house. It lies nestled between forest cover on one side and a stunning view of Guhagar beach on the other, and makes for an ideal place to experience the unique flavour of Coastal Maharashtra. The simplicity of the rooms is made up for by the large number of activities on offer. Guests can explore the village, go for walks through the forest and opt for bird watching trips with the friendly host who’ll also tell you about the efforts he’s made in the field of agriculture in his village.

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#6. Float Along on Ferries

As a coastal district, Ratnagiri has a number of picturesque rivers along which boating is made available. Enjoy the spell of peace and tranquillity while the ferry ride progresses, leaving the heavy pulse of city life behind you at the shores. Instead of driving all the way to different beach towns, the ferry rides can be taken to shorten the length of the journey and enjoy a calm, scenic view. Ferries are available at various locations, such as the Bharja River at Kelshi, Dapoli, and along the Ganpatipule creek.

#7. Relive the Past

Sea forts are one of the many beautiful attractions of this district. Couple your visit to Dapoli’s beaches with a trek up to Mandangad fort. Once there, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley and see the centuries old Canyon that it’s known for. There’s also Ratnadurg Fort which is located in the town of Ratnagiri. Built by the Bahamanis in the 16th century, this fort later became the property of the Adil Shahis. It is situated about 4 kilometres from the town’s centre and again, offers a great view of the town and the sea surrounding it.

#8. Spend a day in the wild

Located at the junction of the Sangli, Kolhapur, and Ratnagiri District is the Chandoli National Park. The Park is home to nearly 23 species of mammals, 122 species of birds and 20 species of amphibians and reptiles; all of these residing in the forests of Chandoli. Some of these fauna include Bengal Tigers, Indian leopards, Indian bison, leopard cats, sloth bears and Indian giant squirrels, thus allowing it to take its natural place on your must-visit list while touring Ratnagiri.

What are your favourite experiences in Ratnagiri? Share them with us in your comments.

Visit our website to book homestays in Ratnagiri and rest of Coastal Mahrashtra.

About the author: Alaric Moras spends most of his time reading, writing and interning with industries that read and write. He aims to become a clinical psychologist, providing therapy and catching Freudian slips during the day, writing and reading through the night. He likes all manner of animals, the smell of books, and the oxford comma.

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Bridge-playing buddies

Social Work Club

MBA group

Co-Teachers

Train travellers

Hobby class gang

Kid’s friend’s parents

Kitty Party

Neighbourhood Pals

You know those familiar faces in your galli that don’t have names yet whose smiles prove to be just the best pick-me-ups after a long day at work? Next time stop and have a chat with them. Who knows you’ll probably make a new BFF and that smile could mean so much more then!

Here’s to all the small families we build outside our etched ones. Here’s to those who matter too!

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