You’ll Love The Scenic Routes To These 10 Offbeat Villas

Are you craving a long, leisurely drive away from your problems? Do you love travelling through scenic routes surrounded by gorgeous hills? Then these villas are just for you. Forget the usual haunts in Lonavala and Alibaug, you’ve seen those roads a hundred times. Go for the road less travelled and head to these ten offbeat villas near Mumbai, the drive is totally worth it!

1. SaffronStays Crescent Bay, Palshet

Perched on an elevation, this stunning 3-bedroom sea-facing villa is dotted along the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. The home flaunts sustainable architecture with a blend of traditional and modern styles. Equipped with private balconies and tall windows, we bet you’ll be spending hours, soaking in the panoramic sea views from every corner!

No. of guests: 6-8

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Crescent Bay


2. SaffronStays Mango Huts by the River, Pali

The drive to Pali has a mesmerising view of not just the mountains but also sprawling farms and orchards. The estate of this 3-bedroom cottage is wide, with plenty of space for pets and kids to run around as well as charming little nooks for photographs. The villa is close to Adlabs Imagica and sightseeing spots like Padsare waterfalls or Jatayu Ganpati temple.

No. of guests: 6-12

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Mango Huts by the River


3. SaffronStays Fragrant Sun By The Lake — Family Room, Mulshi

A hilltop villa, you’ll experience a serene drive through Mulshi’s ghats before you reach Fragrant Sun By The Lake. The journey will give you a slowly expanding view of Mulshi lake and the surrounding valley as you keep going uphill. The eco-friendly villa itself has a bird’s eye view of the same, ideal for families looking to unwind and let their hair down. 

No. of guests: 4-7

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Fragrant Sun By The Lake


4. SaffronStays Palm Paradise, Khadavli

Surrounded by mango plantations, near the banks of Bhatsa river, SaffronStays Palm Paradise is a set of 2 pet-friendly villas with a large pool, lush-green lawn, spacious gazebo, and a kids’ play area. With a variety of experiences from live BBQ, feeding the ducks and chickens, karaoke nights and bonfire sessions, the home is the perfect party destination for large groups of families and colleagues!

No. of guests: 12-24

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Palm Paradise


5. SaffronStays Niramay, Velhe

A tranquil space just outside the city of Pune, Velhe provides a new and pristine landscape. Settled in our 3-bedroom luxury villa, you and your family are free to explore the area. You can indulge in some vegetable picking or trek up the hill to get panoramic views of Bhatghar Dam. The infinity pool is one of the best spots to enjoy the scenery from!

No. of guests: 6-9

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Niramay


6. SaffronStays Ekaant, Dhyana, and Nithyam, Wada

This set of three villas in the same complex can be booked together or individually — making it perfect for college reunions as well as a gathering of small families. Getting to Wada is super easy and makes for a hassle-free road trip. You can enjoy your surroundings without worrying about directions. Should you feel up for a riverside stroll then the Pinjal river is just a few minutes away!

No. of guests: 4-32

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Ekaant, SaffronStays Dhyana, SaffronStays Nithyam


7. SaffronStays Serenity, Igatpuri

The name speaks not only for the villa itself but also for the scenic route that gets one here. The road from Mumbai to Igatpuri is a wonderful collage of mountains, fields and — if you arrive post-monsoon — waterfalls. Even once you’ve arrived, the full length windows of this modern vacation home keep you feeling in touch with nature at all times. 

No. of guests: 4-8

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Serenity


8. SaffronStays Kenwoods, Vikramgad

The advantage of offbeat holiday destinations is that you avoid crowds and noise. Kenwoods is the perfect place to retreat from the world. Couples can book a single room for a small, private haven, while big groups can book the entire vacation home. Accessible via the Mumbai-Gujarat highway, the drive down to this offbeat villa is super fast and very beautiful. Keep those cameras ready. 

No. of guests: 6-12

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Kenwoods


9. SaffronStays Anantham, Kamshet

A Kerela-styled rustic home, SaffronStays Anantham is a 3-bedroom pet-friendly villa in Kamshet with 3 courtyards and stunning views of Thukarwadi lake. Perfect for a getaway with families with grandparents, create unforgettable memories enjoying your tea time in the verandah, huddling up over a cosy bonfire or taking scenic morning walks by the lake.

No. of guests: 6-8 guests

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Anantham, Kamshet


10. SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake, Kamshet

You know every inch of Lonavala now so you might as well take a slight detour. Head to Kamshet and see a different side of Maharashtrian terrain and this home — lush green, set on the banks of lake Andre and surrounded by water on all three sides! Up to 30 guests can stay in this set of cottages and bond over board games, dips in the pool, and more! 

No. of guests: 2-30

Book your holiday: SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake


These offbeat villas near Mumbai and Pune have as much to offer as any of the popular tourist haunts. So why bother with the crowds? Get your own exclusive slice of heaven, with all of the safety and none of the worries. 

Get Away From The Shor In The City

We love the fast paced life of the metro cities. From high-end fashion stores to street shopping, from five star hotels to the pani-puri stall, from watching movies at PVR to munching popcorn at single screen theatres. We love the edgy, competitive and never-halting spirit of the metro cities. But every once in a while, we need a break from the dusty, noisy, and crowded metros and get away from the Shor in The City.

So, in a mood to trade the frenzied city for a peaceful space for a couple of days? Fret not. We’ve got you covered. Gaze at the stars shining brightly in the clear sky or lounge in the jacuzzi or plunge in the pool or challenge your friends to board games or go for a nature walk. The world is your oyster.

Here are the private villas just a few hours away from the hubbub of the city!

Getaways Near Mumbai

SaffronStays Casa Blanca, Karjat

A house adorned with beautiful murals and frescos, it boasts of 4 cosy bedrooms, a dance floor accompanied by a DJ console and speakers, a poker table, a small TT table for kids, Wi-Fi and a mini library with board games. A modern, luxurious villa with a cricket ground, a pool and organic farms, SaffronStays Casa Blanca, is the ideal place to unwind.

Total (Including GST): INR 33040 for Minimum 8 Guests!

 

SaffronStays RiverRock, Panvel

Overlooking the bubbling river, SaffronStays RiverRock is just a couple of hours away from the heart of Mumbai. Take a dip in the outdoor Jacuzzi or trail along a hike or go fishing in the river. A 2 bedroom, pet-friendly homestay with a private outdoor jacuzzi and earthy vibes, it is the perfect escape home for you and your furry little friend.


Total (Including GST): INR 7080 for Minimum 2 Guests!

Getaways Near Delhi

SaffronStays Tridiva, Gwaldham

Perched on the hilltop overlooking the Nandadevi range, SaffronStays Tridiva, with its stone fireplace, warm and colourful interiors and breathtaking views, is the perfect spot for rejuvenation. Look at the glistening peaks of the snow-clad Himalayas as you enjoy a cup of piping hot tea. Experience the impeccable Garhwal hospitality as you are busy gorging on Pahadi delicacies.

Total (Including GST): INR 8260 for Minimum 2 Guests!

 

SaffronStays Jaipura Garh, Jaipur

A 6-bedroom haveli, who’s every wall, every corner, and every artefact, has a tale to tell, SaffronStays Jaipura Garh offers a quaint and rich home stay. This heritage haveli brings the authentic rich and diverse Rajasthani culture under one roof. Experience the royal treatment as you treat yourselves to fascinating anecdotes of history and gob-smackingly delicious food.

Total (Including GST): INR 5310 for Minimum 2 Guests!

Getaways Near Bangalore

SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal

SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, a picturesque stone cottage built in traditional Thanjavur style, surrounded by lush greenery, landscaped gardens and a pond, exudes a charming aura reminiscent of a simpler era. Unwind and enjoy your stay with scrumptious meals and finest Tamil hospitality at this idyllic retreat.

Total (Including GST): INR 5310 for Minimum 2 Guests!

 

SaffronStays Milton Abbott, Ooty

Built in 1865, SaffronStays Milton Abbott emanates the old world charm where you can experience a true heritage stay. Surrounded by charming ambience it is perfect for estate walks or morning treks to the Ooty Golf Course or cozying up in front of the fireplace. Savour the regal charm of this heritage stay as you dine on authentic Sri Lankan/Tamil cuisine.

Total (Including GST): INR 6490 for Minimum 2 Guests

Anniversary Special: Places Every Couple Secretly Wish To Visit!

Last year you paid dearly for forgetting; this year make sure you don’t. It’s your anniversary round the corner and what could be a better occasion than an anniversary for a holiday! A weekend getaway will any day re-ignite romance in your relationship over a material gift. So why take off to a touristy crowded destination when you can try one of these lesser known & secluded escapes? 

#01. Indulge in a Spa Vacation at Moira, Goa

Luxury Villa in Goa

If spa is the favourite part of your holiday then you don’t have to leave home to relax and indulge. Put your phones away and spend the day relaxing together, and not to forget, alone. By the end of the day get a delicious meal delivered making sure to save room for some dessert! This villa tucked away in a quiet corner of Goa is perfect to beat the crowds. Complete with a private pool.

Tip: Ask for the top floor room, that has a private sit-out overlooking the pool and the garden.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#02. Soak in the sun amidst tea gardens in Coonoor

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Are you the one who is not much of the adventure sports variety, but you definitely love to spend time exploring untouched and lesser known destinations. Places which boasts of beautiful green patches, the sights of deep valleys and dense evergreen forests. If yes, then this destination is perfect for you & your significant other! Located midway between Ooty and Coonoor, this villa is built in the style of a traditional planters’ bungalow. Sip on some tea while enjoying the views of lawns and mini tea garden beyond from the verandah.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#03. Explore the outdoors at Murud

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A romantic getaway to the great outdoors allows you to bring out your inner wild child. At Little Paradise which is touch to the beach, you can spend your days exploring nature and being invigorated by fresh air and sunlight. With a refreshing distance from your every day life you two may find it easier to go on an exploration trip all by yourself.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#04. Party like you’re 18 at Dona Paula, Goa

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Has your relationship settled into a rut? Shake things up by taking a romantic getaway and seize the opportunity by partying like you’re still 18! This beautiful villa with an infinity pool is just the place to be for a party animal. Embrace the Goan vibes, dive into the pool & let the good energies flow.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#05. Embrace the scenic beauty at Dapoli

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With stunning sea views on its three sides, coconut trees, slight breeze & sunlight barging in from nooks & corners, this place makes you want to surrender yourself to the cosy environment.

Tip: Ask for the upper room, Jaswanti. It has a private deck to enjoy the fantastic views from.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#06. Have a laid back time at Arpora, Goa

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What’s better than sunny days and sultry evenings that invite utter indulgence. Plan a movie marathon & watch all your favorite rom-com’s just like the old days; Could there be a better way to rediscover the sparks or even find the new ones?! Every minute spent here gives you ample time for rekindling romance and feeding the flames.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#07. Spend quality time on an undisturbed beach in Alibaug

Villa in Alibaug

If candle light dinner by the beach catches your fantasy or a house overlooking the mesmerizing sea waves is your dream, there is no place else to go but this! Imagine a place where you could experience both the beach and the forested mountains. This old styled beach villa sits alongside the gorgeous fort, reminiscent of the Portuguese inhabitation here centuries ago and is perched on a secluded patch of white sand, literally kissed by the high tide waters of the Arabian sea. This place acts as the perfect antidote for all the hustle city puts you through.

Tip: The owners can arrange for a candle-lit dinner by the beach just for you two.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#08. Escape into the Woods at Matheran

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Something about this place makes it an every couple’s favorite! The off beat location, absolutely no outside world intervention, beautiful indoors and warm care takers. What more could one ask for! This is more than a 100 year old Parsi Heritage Bungalow, with all heritage furniture, and lazy-chairs in the verandah for the afternoon book-reading. Look around in the house for it has something special to offer: great interiors, historic wall clock, artefacts or simply take the long walks in the thick forest!

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#09. Experience the thrill of wildlife at Koyna

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You keep your eyes, ears, mind, all wide open because you know nothing about the place and are curious to know everything the destination has to offer. Yes? Then you must stay at this villa located in a close proximity to the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. The destination is set in the beautiful Sahyadri mountain ranges of the western ghats. It is pristine and untouched compared to the usual, run-of-the-mill hill stations. When you are in Koyna, from cold waterfalls, to rolling green mountains with misty tops and foggy corners, you will want to embrace it all.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#10. Revisit the history & recreate memories at Belur, Karnataka

Vacation Villa in Karnataka

Often we need to give ourselves space to go back into the time & recreate the good old memories. This planter’s bungalow built in around 1853 has stood testimony to the changing seasons and centuries just like your relationship has. Set on a 200 year old 400 acre coffee plantation, the bungalow is truly a pretty, fascinating piece of India’s Coffee Heritage. Spend a few days and soak in the place, its history, and its solitude.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#11. There is no greater pleasure than spending time in the Himalayas!

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Imagine yourself surrounded by valleys, organic farmed kitchen garden, eternal snow peaks, beautiful night sky and a campfire to create a cosy mood. Sounds divine like experience right?! Nestled deep in a Himalyan village, this cottage offers the perfect getaway from the mad rush of city lives. Surrounding forests are a mix of ancient oaks, rhododendrons, deodars, pine and various native Himalayan species. Located in a mountain region, this is a modern mountain log house, in the beautiful lap of the high Himalayan snow peaks, in the daylong company of birds and rural pastoral life.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#12. Nobody can resist God’s own country, Kerala

Homestay in Kerala

Located in the beach village of Mararikuram in Alleppey in a oasis of calm, green environs, this heritage property offers quiet time to guests. A beautiful heritage bungalow, along with the rich history, old temples and churches of the area, the pristine beaches at Mararikulam, the Vembanad lake and its connected backwaters, the bird sanctuaries – all conspire to make this the most complete experience of Kerala you can have in one place.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#13 Let the timeless beauty of Srinagar reflect your love

Rent Villa in Kashmir

Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu & Kashmir is a paradise in every sense of the word. This beauty of this destination is as timeless as your love & so without a doubt this has to be one of the most romantic places for an anniversary getaway. The lush valleys, sparkling lakes, high mountains and picturesque scenery make it a perfect getaway that you will remember all your life.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#14. A coversation overlooking Himalayan mountains; Could this get any better?!

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Imagine the view from atop a hill and around you are the rolling hills, the lower reaches of the mighty Himalayas. Nestled amidst fruit trees and vegetable patches and the splendid colors of the seasonal flowers is this beautiful cottage in Uttarakhand. Sit on the porch or under the shade of the plum tree and totally absorb your surroundings over your coffe and conversations.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#15. If you’re truely the romantic types, Udaipur is just meant for you!

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Living on the banks of lake Pichola in the pink city is a dream come true for every traveler. This beautiful lake facing room has a wonderful winding stairway, green plants and colorful windows which ensure that you feel warm, cosy & at your best comfort.

Tip: Ask for their private room with a terrace overlooking the lake. Let the morning sunshine and evening breeze take you back to your early relationship days & make a space for reconnection.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

#16. This suite room will take you back to your newly wedded days!

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Once you step inside Stein Haus, its like walking into the ‘Secret Garden’, well manicured lawn, a beautiful stone water fountain, an open-air jacuzzi. The first floor opens into a large living room, with an open sit out. Guests can enjoy Khandala’s gentle, cool breeze even on a hot summer’s day on the sit-out, under the shade of a large tree. While you are sipping on a cup of tea/coffee from the deck, you can also get a glimpse of Duke’s nose right infront of you! And during monsoon, enjoy the full glory of Khandala rains, sitting by the steps of the sit.

Want to know more about this place? Click here!

Tell us if you find a better way to tell your significant other a very ‘Happy Anniversay’ 🙂

Take a quick break! One day picnic spots near Mumbai

My grandfather loved maintaining a daily diary for all the lovely things he read about, for all the beautiful places he visited every six months, for all the new friends he made and for every new dish that my mother cooked. One day we happened to sit together & he narrated half his diary to me. It is then that I realised that his life was all about observing. He noted that my mother is a very hard working housewife, that my father needs a weekend break too, just like me, and grandpa and his aged friends have nothing to do but sit and chat. So I thought, why not send him on a one day picnic not too far from the city with his friends? Why not organize a women’s only get together for mom and her friends? Why not skip asking for money for my weekend parties and instead ask dad to go and chill with his peers? Because at the end, I wanted that diary to be an experiential observer! So what’s the answer? It’s hitting the road with your friends/family/colleagues. Just think of all the benefits: You can explore the world together, reconnect and rejuvenate, learn more about each other, and make the kind of lifelong bond that only time alone can foster. Below listed are few places you must visit to rejuvenate your rusted self and rest your mind.

# 01 Luxirious farmhouse in Karjat

Barely 2 hours drive from Mumbai, Karjat is approximately 91 km away from the city, sprawling over western ghats and deccan plateau. You anyway consume an hour or so while traveling to work every morning; But this 2 hour journey will be much more happening with your friends/family/cousins. Besides the picturesque fields, Karjat is also connected to quite a few sightseeing places like Buddhist Kondana Caves, Peth Fort, Ulhas Valley etc.

Don’t know where to stay in Karjat? Click here!

# 02 Bungalow with a scenic view in Khandala

Khandala holds a special place in the heart of Mumbaikars. Maybe it’s too close to the city or may be it’s just the weekend vibes. Situated between Mumbai and Pune in Maharashtra, Khandala is located at a height of 550 meters above sea level. This hill station has something for everyone visiting here. It can cater to all sorts of mood and fancies.

Don’t know where to stay in Khandala? Click here!

# 03 Exoctic Pool Villa in Alibaug

The destination is accessible both via road, as well as ferry which departs from Gateway of India. For those who are religious types, Alibaug has two very famous temple’s i.e. Kanakeshwar Devasthan temple and Vikram Vinayak temple. It is also known for remains of Sagargad fort which is worth a visit for history lovers. A villa nestled in the quiet and serene village of Zirad, in Alibagh is approximately a ten minute car/auto ride from the Mandwa jetty.

Don’t know where to stay in Alibaug? Click here!

# 04 Riverside Cottage in Karjat

Karjat is a popular weekend holiday destination from Mumbai, and located near the basin of Ulhas River,  scenic natural vistas follow this place by default. It this because of this splendid beauty and easy accessibility from Mumbai, that it is so famous for weekend getaways. The beauty of this place multi-folds during monsoons.

Don’t know where to stay in Karjat? Click here!

# 05 Campsite in Kamshet

Kamshet is a paragliding hub of Maharashtra and where stay options are set up to offer a range of activities. Kamshet is surrounded by immense scenic beauty, and is home to small villages that are built in the traditional style (with mud, thatch and reeds). Maval is the main market of area and attract people from around 60 to 70 villages. You can visit Vadivale lake, an artificially created lake due to the backwaters of the Uksan dam.

Don’t know where to stay in Kamshet? Click here!

# 06 Luxury Bunglow near Karla Caves in Lonavala

A mere 2 hours by road from Mumbai, beautifully landscaped Lonavala is famous for its seemingly innumerable varieties of hard candy sweet, commonly known as chikki. It also offers worth a visit sights like Bhushi Dam, Valvan Dam, Duke’s Nose, Tiger Point, etc. Anybody visiting here for the first time will definitely fall in love with the scenic beauty.

Don’t know where to stay in Lonavala? Click here!

Cover Photo Credits: www.hdwallpaperspulse.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

Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

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 

Luxury Farm house in Karjat

Luxury Farm House in Karjat

Luxury Farm house 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

Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

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

Beach Villa in Korlai

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

Villa in Lonavala

Villa 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

Villa in Alibaug

Villa 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

Farm house near Khopoli

Farm house near Khopoli

Farm house 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

Country homes in Raigad district

Ecologically balanced 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 

Villa near Dapoli Beach

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

Beach view Bungalow in Guhagar

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

Beach facing Villa in Malgund

Beach facing Villa in Malgund

Beach facing Villa in Malgund

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.