Champakali

Hotel review

Two modern Portuguese style villas, ten minutes walk from Old Goa offer an alternative to the usual Indian seaside escape, you’re a drive from the beach, but what Champakali lacks in coastline it makes up for in luscious surrounds and complete privacy. This tropical hideaway, is far enough from the maddening crowds of North Goa to opt out of its party scene, yet close enough to visit. It is the closest holiday makers will get to a Goan home away from home. Two villas, set amidst just under an acre of undulating grounds are the perfect meeting of cosy and chic. Portuguese style beds are wonderfully comfy, plus the rooms include a small sofa and coffee table, as well as private balconies and terraces. A lived-in feel permeates every room, each decorated with personal knick-knacks you’d never find in a hotel. Each villa has its own living room, filled with board games, books, and recent magazines (no TV here), and an al fresco dining area. The pool is communal. The food is excellent, which is good news seeing as there are no restaurants within walking distance (although there are some local favourite dining options in Panjim, Goa’s capital which is just a short drive). Typical Goan dishes such as steamed king fish in a banana leaf parcel receive a European twist, whilst homemade apple pie and ice cream is pure indulgence. Breakfast is quite the spread with your choice of homemade muesli, and pancakes with fruit to a slap up Full English Breakfast. No beach, no problem, there is plenty to do right on your doorstep. Each villa has its own bikes and the quiet roads surrounding Champakali are excellent for cycling. Head up to St Mary on the Mount for sunset or walk to Old Goa, with its beautiful churches. Around a thirty minute drive away are the beaches of Vagator and Calangute.

Megan Lambert Review published: 31/10/2018