Goa’s best boutique hotels

When you visit Goa as much as we do, it’s tempting to stay in a familiar hotel, property or resort. And on the eve of Goa’s green season—simply, the monsoon—we present three extraordinary hideaways in north Goa; for your tripping pleasure.

Siolim House

Siolim House is a 350-year-old Portuguese mansion that was once home to the Portuguese governor to Macau. The architecture of the property, located in the Siolim village of North Goa, instantly transports you to colonial times. The property has been so meticulously restored that it was even nominated for a UNESCO Heritage prize. The hotel has seven rooms, all of which are unique and named after various seaports, as well as a pool and a dining area in the central courtyard, which serves a set menu. We recommend booking the two-bedroom Macau suite, which sits on the first floor and overlooks the garden, or for the pinnacle in quiet luxury, reserve the three-bedroom villa.

Siolim House, opposite Wadi Chapel, Siolim, Bardez (+ 91 832 227 2138; www.siolimhouse.com)

Pousada Tauma               

This adults-only boutique hotel is located in the bustling heart of Candolim yet its property is rich with greenery and even houses a lotus pond. The hotel’s 12 suites have their own dining area and patio, are all situated around the pool and are decorated in different themes—we suggest you book the Garden Suite for that honeymoon feel. The hotel houses two restaurants, the fine dining Copper Bowl and the more informal Pousada by the Beach, which is ideal for enjoying a Goan sunset by the sand. The property also features the popular Ayurvedic Centre, which offers a wide range of treatments designed to heal mind and body.

Pousada Tauma, Calangute (+91 832 227 9061; www.pousada-tauma.com)

Fort Tiracol

This cherished boutique hotel on the northernmost tip of Goa offers fabulous views of the water where the Arabian Sea meets the Tiracol River. With just two well-appointed suites and five spacious double rooms, it is the definitive place to stay if you’re looking to spend some quiet downtime. Its terrace restaurant has lovely tables sitting under giant white umbrellas and serves simple Portuguese fare coupled with the finest selection of wine. Its private boats can be chartered for cruising and dolphin sighting. Fort Tiracol also offers easy access to a secluded beach strip with sun decks and lounge chairs, which we think is the perfect place to curl up alone with a novel.

Fort Tiracol, Pernem (+91 832 652 9653; www.forttiracol.com)

ALSO SEE: Goa's most romantic resorts, Goa: fit for a gourmand and Goan beach chic

  

- Priyanka Shewakramani

Last Updated: 27 May 2011

   

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