Goa is inarguably the most popular beach destination in India. It is one of the favourite holiday spots among Indians, and attracts all types of holiday goers. There are plenty of options to explore in Goa based on your needs, tastes, and budgets, thereby making it difficult for an average holiday goer to shortlist an option. Additionally, shortlisting an option based on reviews can be a nightmare as most of the reviews are not genuine. For the loyalists, it is an easy pick, but for someone with an eye for finer things in life, who is longing for an awesome experience, we present to you our shortlist of the five best resorts in Goa.
Alila Diwa:
Located at Majorda, Alila Diwa is one of the leading 5 star resorts in Goa. One of the biggest reason for its popularity is its short distance of 20 minutes from the Dabolim airport. A major attraction of this place is its beach front views from the private balcony or terraces of each room. There is an infinity pool and Spa for the guests who wish for luxury pampering. There is nothing here you would find missing from the idea of a Luxurious beach vacation.
Read: Our tales of the fairytale called Goa in Monsoons.
Taj Exotica:
This is a Mediterranean styled resort located on the Benaulim beach. It is about half an hour drive away from the airport. Spread over 56 acres of verdant land along the beach, itis secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city, thus donning the title of R&R paradise. A tastefully done lobby, well-manicured lawns, and a beautiful pool, all tend to remind you of Taj’s version of luxury. A nine-hole golf course and a cycling track is also part of the property for those who wish to do some exercise. Though the beach along the property is not private, it is clean and devoid of the millions of hawkers and shacks that dominate majority of the popular beaches. Several restaurants inside the property provide a range of cuisines for its guests who do not wish to venture out. Everything you could think of is taken care of, thus leaving you with a big smile and a happy feeling at the end of your stay.
Zuri White Sands:
The Zuri White Sands Resort is the only place offering five star comfort on the Varca Beach. There are more than 150 spacious rooms and six multicuisine restaurants. The bar area offers a laidback atmosphere for you to unwind and relax. If R&R is your agenda, then check out the award winning Maya Spa that provides therapeutic Ayurvedic and Western style massages. It is a total luxury package for couples and families.
Dona Sylvia Resort
Sprawled over twenty six acres of lush greenery and located besides the Cavelossim beach, Dona Sylvia might be the prettiest resort on this list. Landscaped gardens, pretty pathways, and over 180 rooms to stay in make it quite easy to book a room. A short distance away from the happening beaches of Goa, party places are just a short-drive away from this place. Amongst the other things, the resort offers multiple restaurants with different dedicated cuisines, a state-of-the-art spa, cycling facilities, and all rooms built with verandas and terraces.
Though it is not a resort technically, we felt the need to include this property here as an exception. Located at Nerul near Coco beach, this boutique luxury property has just 4 villas within its premises. All the villas are uniquely designed with 2 rooms, a working kitchen, a plunge pool Jacuzzi, and options for open showers and a lounging/dining room. Add to it the courtesy of a wonderful team who magically gets things done, a dedicated driver who takes you around the town, and a whole lot of finger-licking food to relish and enjoy. If that isn’t enough, the beautiful small pathways, green surroundings, and the beautiful pool where you would want to stay in the entire day give you enough reasons to not leave this place at all.
These were our picks for the best luxury hotels to stay in Goa, however there’s lot more to Goa beyond the beaches. Recommend you read this wonderful ebook on Goa for more info.