5 exceptional hotels you must know in Goa

With its picturesque beaches, azure waters, spectacular landscapes and happening nightlife, Goa is one of the most popular holiday destinations in India. And while there are innumerable hotel options here for all kinds of travellers, a unique accommodation is sure to make your stay even more delightful. 

So ditch the obvious luxury retreats, boutique resorts and budget hotels, and check into one of these five offbeat stays on your next Goan sojourn.

1. Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel

We all know of Fort Aguada, Fort Chapora and several other beautiful forts in Goa overlooking the sea. How about staying in one such fort on your next Goa Holiday? Set on a cliff by the Indian Ocean, Fort Tiracol is located in Arambol, the northernmost part of Goa. Once a defence fortress of the Portuguese, this 17th-century fort is now a charming heritage hotel, perfect for a peaceful holiday away from the touristy areas of Goa. It offers panoramic seaside vistas and charming old-world décor coupled with modern conveniences and comforts. Enjoy a drink or meal on the fort ramparts overlooking the sea, visit the gorgeous 17th-century chapel located right in the middle of the property, and unwind in the dreamy setting of this exquisite hotel.

Tariff: Approx. INR 5000 per room/night

Location: Pernem Taluka, Tiracol, Goa

2. Siolim House

Experience simple luxury and old-world charm coupled with modern comforts at the 350-year-old Siolim House. Built-in the year 1675, this Portuguese home is now a well-known heritage hotel, ideal for a one-of-a-kind experience in Goa. Its antique furnishings, four-poster beds and high-ceilinged rooms are sure to take you back in time, while the contemporary facilities ensure a comfortable stay. With the quiet Morjim, Ashwem and Mandrem beaches nearby, you’re never too far from the best spots in North Goa. This tranquil retreat also offers activities like cooking sessions, yoga classes, fishing trips and Ayurvedic massage treatments. They even have a  lovely garden-side pool you would love to relax in.

Tariff: Approx. INR 6700 per room/night

Location: Wadi, Siolim, Goa

3. Nilaya Hermitage

Located in the quaint town of Arpora, Nilaya Hermitage offers the perfect setting for a peaceful getaway just five minutes away from the popular beaches of Baga and Calangute. This boutique hotel is unique for its exotic design inspired by Arabian nights and Moorish architecture, coupled with magnificent Mughal domes, mosaic pillars and ceramics. The enchanting blues, silk beds, soothing music and the high-domed ceiling of the Blue Dome Room will take you back to the opulence of the Middle Ages. Moreover, each room and luxury tent here is designed and named after the elements of nature. Surrounded by lush greenery, this hotel offers facilities you’ll love to explore. Wake up to the sounds of tropical birds and peacocks, go on jogging trails, relax with spa treatments and yoga sessions, work out at the on-site gym, or take a dip in the swimming pool overlooking Goa’s scenic coastline.

Tariff: Approx. INR 6195 per room/night

Location: Arpora, Goa

4. Champions Yacht Club Goa

You can never get enough of Goa’s scenic vistas, lush green landscape and stunning sea views. For those willing to splurge, how about experiencing a yacht stay on your next holiday in Goa? Champions Yacht Club Goa offers stay-on-water luxury yachts for the ultimate indulgence. These fully furnished yachts have luxury rooms with modern conveniences, an onboard bar and restaurant offering complimentary meals, and an upper deck for you to enjoy panoramic sea views at all times. There are yachts to suit every budget, and some of these also have a casino on-board so that you do not miss out on any of the classic Goan experiences. In addition to several luxury yacht stays Champions Yacht Club Goa also has special arrangements for yacht parties, island excursions, barbeques, fishing expeditions, and more.

Tariff: Approx. INR 75,000 per room/night

Location: Champions Island Divar, Tiswadi, Goa

5. Tantra Beach Shack and Huts

Lounging on the beach and enjoying uninterrupted sea views is what every Goan holiday is made of. So how about a relaxed beachfront accommodation overlooking the sea? Tantra Beach Shack and Huts offer tree houses and cottages with tantric décor and brightly painted interiors. These come equipped with private bathrooms, conveniences like free Wi-Fi, and spectacular sea views from all the rooms. Located close to all the hip bars and party places on the popular Anjuna Beach, this budget accommodation is ideal for a long and relaxed Goan vacation. Wake up to the sound of waves, enjoy breathtaking views with a drink at the restaurant, and fall in love with the bohemian vibe of the place. Also, for your shopping cravings, the well-known Anjuna flea market is only a minute’s walk from here.

Tariff: Approx. INR 1500 per room/night

Location: Anjuna Beach, Goa