2018 has almost come to an end and that can mean only two things – reflecting on the blessings of this past year and preparing a set of goals and aspirations to achieve in the coming year. We are no different – today, we want to share with you the hideaways that have taken our breath away the past year as we set our eyes on another year full of truly exceptional travel.
1. Coco Shambhala, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Set in a tropical garden, barely 200 metres off the beach, these villas have been designed as barefoot retreats, each with their own infinity pool looking out to the sea. The villas sit in complete harmony with the local landscape – the bedrooms provide natural light and boast of gorgeous coconut wood furniture. Since there is no restaurant on the premises, every meal is tailor-made to suit our culinary preferences which proves to be an extraordinary dining experience.
New to the PlushEscapes family, this 10-acre homestay located in Kapurthala was built in the 1950s. With its old world charm and grandeur, Hamira transports you to the era of kings.The day always begins on the best note with stunning views of Mughal gardens, fountains and peacocks prancing about, from the balcony of the room. Meals here are a spectacular experience – from the first nosh where you’re served five skinned almonds along with breakfast to dinner where you feast on royal spreads.
3. Rainforest Athirapally, Pariyaram, Kerala
Tucked right into the lap of nature, this hideaway is set in 7 acres of Sholayar Forest Reserve overlooking the Athirapally waterfalls, the largest waterfalls in Asia. You’re surrounded by nature and if you’re lucky you might spot the many inhabitants of the reserve like malabar pied hornbills, gaurs, sloth bears, Indian leopards and even elephants. The alfresco restaurant dining here is an experience to be savoured and the menu is tailored to your needs but we highly recommend taking the leap and trying some unusual, native delicacies.
4. Samode Bagh, Samod, Rajasthan
The lush abundance of flowers and trees, walk amidst fountains and waterways, luxurious canopied pavilions and the sweet sounds of birds make this retreat idyllic and peaceful. Gentle and meditative, it helps us bond with nature. Taking nature walks, identifying flowers and plants, watching birds, strolls, meditation, reading by the fireside, swimming in the pool or rejuvenating with a massage – there’s plenty to keep you happy, when you’ve done with the easy relaxing, get adventurous, saddle up for horse or camel safaris around the rugged countryside – into Samode and around.
5.The Tamara, Kodaikanal,Tamil Nadu
Located in the historical La Providence building in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, this retreat is designed in the style of French provincial design and each suite features interiors which stay as close to the original colonial style of architecture as possible to give a taste of an era long gone.
6. Orchard at Peora, Peora, Uttarakhand
The Orchard at Peora is inspired by Tuscan farmhouses. It’s located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and is surrounded by Himalayan ranges and pine forests. The rooms here are large yet intimate and cozy and open up to endless views of the lush green valley and mountain peaks which serves as perfect deck for star-gazing on a clear night – how romantic!
8. Svasara Jungle Lodge, Tadoba, Maharashtra
Svasara Jungle Lodge is a premier luxury destination at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. The property has uniquely designed areas like— outdoor dining & bonfires at The Teakhouse, safari rides, open-air jungle cinema, safari shop & library and nursery of indigenous jungle plants—aim to educate and rejuvenate the soul.
8. Denwa Backwater Escape, Sarangpur, Madhya Pradesh
Built on 10 acres of forested land along the Denwa River, this lodge overlooks the mesmerizing backwaters of a dam built on the river and offers stunning views of the Satpura National Park and rolling Pachmari hills. We enjoy boat safaris, kayaking, elephant safaris and the traditional jeep safaris inside the tiger reserve.The safaris inside the park are operated by the village society and the lodge provides a trained naturalist to accompany the us for activities. The buffer area also has been developed for activities like cycling, night safaris and camping offering a unique experience. There is regular sightings of leopard, sloth bears, lesser cats and a variety of other mammals during night safaris.
9. Taru Villas – Rampart Street, Sri Lanka
In a 19th century English merchant house in the heart of Galle Fort, this villa overlooks the Indian Ocean and Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple. Located within a UNESCO Heritage Site, it boasts of a charming garden which is a rarity within Galle and a dining pavilion by the 10 metre pool – an ideal spot for breakfast or lunch.
Which one is your favourite? Comment below.
PlushEscapes Editor
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