A Portuguese colony until 1961, Goa, one of the smallest states in India, still retains its distinctive and relaxed features. Located on the Western Ghat along the west coast of Konkan, Goa is India's best-known seaside resort for domestic and international tourism.
Often associated to the hippy culture and beach parties, Goa has always tantalized the imagination of travelers in search of an authentic Indian experience represented by that feeling of fulfillment and serenity encapsulated in the term "susegad".
LOCATION
The beaches along the coast alternate with small coves and fishing villages where life flows slowly and the white baroque churches, vestiges of Portugal's colonial past, emerge among the coconut palms and the red earth of the lush tropical landscape. Historically famous for its many markets such as the lively flea market in Anjuna and the Saturday night bazaar, Goa has changed its features producing a brand-new generation of artists and designers but also a delectable cuisine that nods to the atmosphere of Miami with its beachside restaurants, nightclubs and luxury hotels thus becoming a sought-for destination among Indians as well.
The beautiful Ahilya by the Sea is a boutique hotel, a magical enclave just off Coco Beach near the tranquil fishing village of Nerul north of Goa.
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Ahilya by the Sea, Goa
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Ahilya by the Sea, Goa
Ahilya is an hour's drive away from Dabolim's Goa International Airport, or approximately 33 km. The Indo-Balinese-style property is hidden behind an imposing wall and a gate with a sign saying Coco Maia in a slightly elevated position and directly overlooking the waves of the Arabian Sea.
A few hundred meters to the West, the fishing boats of Nerul village crowd the beach while dolphins play offshore. On the horizon you can spot Panjim, the capital of Goa and the Indian Ocean. These waters are an excellent resource for local fishing and the fresh catch arrives at nearby markets daily.
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Ahilya by the Sea, Goa
The project of Ahilya by the Sea started 15 years ago with the renovation of a typical Portuguese house overlooking the sea and what was once the Ancient Goa. The hotel combines the local style with typical Balinese Asian details and reminiscences, and is made of just 3 Portuguese-style villas in hand-carved red laterite, a "tower room" that intertwines with an ancient banyan tree on the beach, making it look almost like a "tree house" and a small room with partial sea view called The Music Room.
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Ahilya by the Sea, Goa
THE VILLAS
The villas are surrounded by lush gardens with 2 swimming pools, the beautiful infinity pool by the sea and the garden swimming pool. There are many shaded verandas to relax with a book or places to hide, to spot dolphins dancing offshore or simply be lulled by the sea breeze. Ahilya overlooks Coco Beach, a quiet beach away from the hustle and bustle of the main road. However, in just five minutes by car you can reach Reis Magos Fort and in 10 minutes the tourist centre of Candolim.
THE CONCEPT
With this new hotel, the owners, who already run the charming Ahilya Fort in Maheshwar, in the State of Madhya Pradesh, wanted to offer a luxury experience in a lesser known area of Goa. The hotel is located at the confluence of the Mandovi and Nerul rivers, which flow into the Arabian Sea, and the atmosphere inside is simply perfect, with picture-perfect scenery made of wind-bent palm trees and colourful fishing boats languidly swinging on the water.
Once you get there you hardly want to leave as those little details make you feel at home: a refreshing drink, a cold towel, the welcoming smiles of the reception staff, the works of art scattered all over the place, the vintage furniture and that pleasant fragrance surrounding the grounds. The SPA is a heaven of peace where you can relax choosing from a wide range of massages and specialized treatments.
The restaurant offers delicious dishes made with fresh produce and local fish, mixing Indian flavors with the delicate French sensibility. At sunset, the nearby fishing beaches offer lively scenes of everyday life but the best beaches are along the coast and can be easily reached by car driving north.
ACTIVITIES
HOW TO GET THERE
Photo courtesy of Ahilya by the Sea, Goa
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