“Wonderfully isolated former defense fort seeped in history with a 17th century church on site, a real off-the-beaten-track gem offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Tastefully decorated rooms with four-poster opulence, and its restaurant has a delectable and varied menu.”

Hotel review

If you’re planning a trip to North Goa, why not get away from it all, with a night or two at Fort Tiracol. Right on the Maharashtra border this 16th-century fort, built by the Portuguese, now occupies an almost completely deserted stretch of Goa’s coastline (no mean feat in 2018). The ‘tourist trail’ has yet to make its way up here, and the hotel is accessed by ferry (by road is possible, but it’s much quicker, and much more fun, by boat). Renowned local chef Chris Saleem has worked his magic on the menu, essential taking its location into account, as there really is nothing else around Fort Tiracol for more than a country mile. Choose from traditional Goan curries, local fish thalis or home comfort foods like rich Parmigiana and Mediterranean fish with baby potatoes and sautéed vegetables. Breakfast on a traditional Full English, accompanied by local poi bread. A match made in heaven. Rooms are located in the old fort, overlooked by a charming (and still working) chapel. Rather quaintly they are numbered Monday to Sunday and decorated in pastel colours. Four-posters add a sense of grandeur, whilst antique style light fittings and fixtures, compliment the property’s rich history. Each has its own balcony (ranging from small to sit out) from where to take in the sea views and those incredible Arabian sea sunsets. The staff are charming, even if the service is a bit slow. They will go out of their way to help organise a car to or from the beach and ferry (about the only places you’re likely to travel) and are only too happy to give you a lift if there aren’t any available! Nearby Kedi beach is perfect for a day in the sun (there’s no pool) and there are enough beach shacks to keep you fed and watered throughout the day, though it’s still very simple. A total break from Goa’s well-trodden beach circuit, Fort Tiracol gives guests a sense of Goa’s rich history, whilst also being a total hidden gem.

Megan Lambert
Megan Lambert Review published: 31/10/2018

Recommended for

  • Hideaway

    • A former defense fort in splendid isolation. There's a palpable sense of history here, and spectacular views from the ramparts
  • Fishing

    • The hotel can organise fishing excurions with local fisherman, and the catch of the day is given to the chef to work his magic
  • Great walks

    • Offering stunning views from its elevated position, a great place to take a leisurely stroll or embark on a coastline hike
  • Contemporary

    • The interiors are in a light and contemporary Portuguese style, with a nod to the buildings dramatic history
  • Kayaking

    • Sea kayaking can be arranged, a lovely way for guests to explore beaches and coastline
  • Sights nearby

    • Just 100m from the iconic Fort Tiracol, and the celebrated Arambol beach is 14km away
  • Antiques

    • Antique style light fittings and fixtures compliment the property’s rich history
  • Snorkelling

    • Head down to the nearby beaches to explore the bevvy of sea life
  • Historic

    • Housed in a former defense fort
  • Designer

  • Quiet

  • Four poster beds

  • Trekking

  • Romantic Break

  • Country Escape

  • Outstanding location

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Full of character

  • Beach nearby

  • Hills & mountains

  • Beach Life

  • Restaurant

  • Sea Views

  • Chic

  • Watersports

  • Active Holiday

  • Child friendly

  • Views

  • Diving

  • Wildlife Area

  • Traditional

  • Luxury

  • Intimate

  • Romantic

Facilities

  • Rooms

    7 rooms in this hotel
  • Garden

    Spacious tropical garden with terrace, picnic area, BBQ facilities, outdoor furniture
  • No pets

  • Outdoor dining

  • Airport transfer

  • Bar

  • Business Centre

  • Parking

  • Bath robes

  • Safe

  • Four poster beds

  • Library

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Restaurant

  • Child friendly

  • Sitting Room

  • Room service

  • Views

  • Suites

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Air conditioning

  • Wifi

Activities

  • Fishing

    • The hotel can organise fishing excurions with local fisherman, and the catch of the day is given to the chef to work his magic
  • Great walks

    • Offering stunning views from its elevated position, a great place to take a leisurely stroll or embark on a coastline hike
  • Kayaking

    • Sea kayaking can be arranged, a lovely way for guests to explore beaches and coastline
  • Sights nearby

    • Just 100m from the iconic Fort Tiracol, and the celebrated Arambol beach is 14km away
  • Snorkelling

    • Head down to the nearby beaches to explore the bevvy of sea life
  • Trekking

  • Watersports

  • Diving

  • Wildlife Area

Map & Location

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