There are few journeys more thrilling than the vertiginous electric golf cart ride to Cabo Serai, down through lush greenery towards a stretch of all-but-private beach. As we approached, we spotted a beaming staff member lurking in the foliage, ready (with machete and coconut in hand!) to guide us through the trees to his eco retreat.
Set back from the ocean, with the roar of the sea audible throughout, Cabo Serai's 8 cottages and 3 luxury tents are perched 100 feet above ground, enveloped by 14 acres of untouched jungle. Tucked away in sleepy South Goa, it's a far cry from the crowds of the Northern beaches. Embodying the Goan spirit of languorous living, the vibe is so laid back it's almost horizontal. Choose from a long list of outdoor and wildlife activities on-site, wake up with a private yoga class, or unwind with an Ayurvedic massage and a dip in the pool. Fancy lunch down on the beach? No problem. Sundowners that turn into dinner? Naturally.
A real effort has been made in conserving the surrounding vegetation, with as little as possible moved during the construction process. Plus there's a zero-tolerance policy on single-use plastics. An energy-guzzling resort this is not. But it's paradise alright.
Highs
- The sea views and wrap-around balconies are dreamy
- This is truly a secluded paradise surrounded by nature
- Always smiling, always happy to help, the staff are a huge part of what makes Cabo Serai so superb
- The in-room details and eco-friendly extras: a copper water pot, eco-conscious toiletries, plus a selection of loose leaf teas and local coffee
- Stargazing on an evening was the best we'd seen in India
Lows
- Environmentally conscious minibars mean there's no fridge, so you'll have to make do with powdered milk - or you can call for fresh
- Some previous guests have felt the food is overpriced and underwhelming, but we enjoyed all of our meals
- You are in the jungle: there are bugs!
- It feels quite remote (which we like), with the last 1km on a dirt road
- To reach the beach, it's 96 steps downhill - but there is a golf cart if needed
Best time to go
Weather-wise, the best time to visit Goa is from November to February. If you like the heat, October and March are pleasant too. Christmas and New Year would be an excellent time to escape to Cabo Serai, as Goa's Northern beaches become clogged with domestic and international tourists.
Our top tips
It's worth noting that on Sundays the otherwise empty beach of Cabo de Rama is alive with local families enjoying their day off. This can involve games of football and playing music. It's an iconic 'India-scape', but guests who don't value people-watching as much as they do their own peace and quiet might wish to book an activity or venture elsewhere on this day.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 1 independent review from i-escape guests
This place is fantastic. The team are so helpful and kind and there is great attention to detail. We did 2 sunset yoga lessons with a fantastic teacher which made our stay particularly memorable. Food was fresh and varied with a great menu. Our room was perfect, comfortable and quiet. We cannot fault anything.
Thank you so very much.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape