Reviewed by
Meg Lambert
Perched atop a hill, with nothing but 180° views of North Goa’s green skyline, you’d never know you're under 10 minutes' drive (or a 30-minute walk) from the bars and restaurants of bustling Calangute. In fact, it’s thanks to the villa’s total seclusion that it has become popular with Bollywood royalty. Sprawled across 2 acres of luscious gardens, this double-storey, open-plan, Balinese-style villa allows guests to fully spread themselves out and soak up the peace and tranquility. Birds and butterflies flit between bamboo, banana, mango, tamarind and champa trees, while a waterfall provides a mellow background tune.
A small team of staff, who have been with the owners for years, operate the villa like a well-run home. The 3 bedrooms (2 doubles, 1 twin/double) and sprawling living areas are kept spotless, the chef’s services are complimentary (you only pay for the ingredients), or taxis can be summoned to reach a long list of local dining options. Golden Calangute Beach is near but you'd be forgiven for wanting to just laze at home and enjoy the peace and infinity pool.
A small team of staff, who have been with the owners for years, operate the villa like a well-run home. The 3 bedrooms (2 doubles, 1 twin/double) and sprawling living areas are kept spotless, the chef’s services are complimentary (you only pay for the ingredients), or taxis can be summoned to reach a long list of local dining options. Golden Calangute Beach is near but you'd be forgiven for wanting to just laze at home and enjoy the peace and infinity pool.
Highs
- An idyllically quiet location, yet walking distance from Calangute town; very rare
- Owners Hans and Sucheta, who live next door, are wonderfully jovial and welcoming hosts
- Far more space for your money than staying at a hotel
- A huge infinity pool, surrounded by nothing but tropical canopy as far as the eye can see
- No need for a hire car, you can get around in cheap taxis
Lows
- Meals are not included, though the chef’s services are complimentary
- No stag/hen or similar parties allowed, and no outside guests