By Aliana Rodriques
Looking to stay in Goa but looking for some adventure off the beaten path? Here are some of the places that you can stay at on your visit to Goa that are budget- friendly and will allow you to experience adventure activities. Enjoy!
Olaulim Backyards – Located in the Olaulim village, just 11 kms away from Panjim, Olaulim Backyards allows you to experience the other side of Goa, away from the busy coastal belt. From here, you can engage in white water rafting, pottery and scuba diving. In-house activities include canoeing/kayaking, cycling, fishing, bird watching and walking through nature.
Wildernest – Situated in the Chorla Ghats, Wildernest offers stunning landscapes, experience activities such as foot trails, treks, hikes, souvenir shops, special nature encounters and interpretive talks. Wildernest also offers a cultural showcase of palaces and shrines, folk dance performances and sacred groves.
Saraya – This is a Sanskrit word which means ‘to begin, to flow’, Saraya is an eco-stay which offers guests two types of living accommodation – earth houses and tree houses. Saraya also offers art galleries and cafes. Saraya also offers yoga and meditation classes, live music, farmers markets and other interactive activities which change every week.
Stonewater Eco Resort – This beachfront property located on Santrem beach near Bogmalo, offers an outdoor swimming pool, spa, wellness centre and a massage parlour. Stonewater Eco Resort also allows parties, weddings and conferences to be held at the resort.
Rustic – Situated in Sattari, Thane, Valpoi, Rustic is a plantation which allows you to getaway to a private location. Rustic retreat has 11 cottages in a rural ambience amidst a cashew plantation. One can find spices like cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg, cashew, etc. This resort is ideal for one day picnics, school camps and corporate seminars.
Off the Grid – At an altitude of 600 metres, Off the Grid is an exclusive homestay in the Western Ghats, on the border of Karnataka and Goa run by white water specialist John Pollard and his wife Sylvia Kerkar. There are many hidden waterfalls and the wildlife is plentiful. There are plenty of workshops such as pottery, trekking, cooking, building, repairing, etc.
Other recommendations not to be missed are Nature’s Nest in Surla and Mangaal Farmstay in Netravali. These are just some of the off the beaten path stays that you can opt for during your stay in Goa especially during the monsoon season and if you care about the environment. While these off the beaten path stays are environment-friendly, you do not compromise on comfort or luxury. Add your own recommendations in the comments section!