When most people think of Goa, their minds immediately drift to sun-kissed beaches, lively shacks, and vibrant parties. But there’s another side to Goa, a hidden gem filled with lush greenery, peaceful waterfalls, and serene moments amidst nature. This hidden paradise is Netravali, a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. And adding a touch of luxury to this beautiful, tranquil location is the Postcard Hideaway, offering the perfect blend of nature and indulgence for a relaxing getaway.
Netravali: A Green Oasis in Goa
Located in the Western Ghats, the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary (recognized by UNESCO) is the perfect retreat for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. As soon as you enter the Netravali region, you’re greeted by fresh, cool air, dense forests, and winding roads surrounded by lush trees. The moment we arrived, we felt like we had left the world behind and entered a secluded, tranquil forest.
A Stay at The Postcard Hideaway, Netravali
Our accommodation for this trip was the Postcard Hideaway, a true hidden gem set amidst twenty acres of greenery. The hotel is designed for ultimate solitude and relaxation offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. We were fortunate enough to be upgraded from our base luxury room to a Premier Room, and it was every bit as beautiful as expected!
The room came with a private balcony, chic interiors, and an unmatched sense of serenity. It was our first time staying at a Postcard Hotel, and we were completely blown away by the experience. The best part of staying at Postcard is the anytime breakfast, check-in, and check-out policy, which offers complete flexibility for guests.
When we arrived at 12 PM, our room was ready, and we were even offered breakfast despite the odd timing. It’s small touches like these that set the experience apart. Throughout our stay, the hospitality was impeccable, and we loved the thoughtfully curated, locally inspired menu.
Dining at Postcard: A Culinary Delight
Postcard Hotels don’t have the usual buffet system; instead, they focus on made-to-order meals that reflect the local cuisine. We enjoyed the Goan Konkan Thali, which was a highlight, and the fact that everything was made fresh when we ordered gave the food an authentic touch. As vegetarians, we had plenty of options, and every meal was served with a stunning view of the farm and surrounding mountains.
Day 1: Poolside Relaxation
After settling in, we spent the first day doing absolutely nothing—and it was glorious! The pool area was a quiet haven where we could hear nothing but the sound of birds chirping and leaves rustling in the wind. It was the perfect place to lounge, read a book, and sip on a cool drink. Sometimes, you don’t need a packed itinerary to make the most of a vacation. We embraced the calmness of the day and recharged for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Exploring the Local Attractions
On the second day, we decided to explore some of the nearby attractions, and our first stop was the famous Netravali Bubbling Lake, just 1 km from the hotel. The lake is known for its natural phenomenon—when sound is made, bubbles rise to the surface of the water. While this is fascinating, I believe the Shree Gopinath Temple there deserves more attention.
We cycled to the temple using complimentary bikes from the hotel and were pleasantly surprised by the peaceful atmosphere and the simple beauty of the temple. The old priest who takes care of the temple draws water from the bubbling lake in a traditional way, which was a humbling experience to witness. After spending time at the temple and lake, we returned to the hotel by evening, feeling refreshed by the tranquil surroundings.
Day 3: Savari Waterfall Adventure
Our third day was dedicated to adventure. Just 5 km from the hotel lies the stunning Savari Waterfall, located inside the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. The waterfall is a sight to behold, and after a short 20-30 minute hike through the sanctuary, we arrived at this hidden treasure.
The cycle ride from the hotel took us about 45 minutes, and though you can also book a car from the hotel, we preferred the cycling experience to soak in the scenery. The waterfall was well worth the effort, and we spent time there taking in the serene beauty of the spot.
There’s also another nearby waterfall called the Mainapi Waterfall, but since we were on cycles and wanted to return before it got dark, we didn’t visit this time.
Day 4: Spa and Open-Air Jacuzzi
On our final day, we decided to treat ourselves to some relaxation at the hotel’s spa and open-air jacuzzi. This secluded spot, set in a gazebo-like structure, was the perfect way to end our trip. The experience was complimentary, and the setting felt truly special, allowing us to soak in the peaceful atmosphere one last time before heading back to reality.
Final Thoughts on Netravali & Postcard Hideaway
Our trip to Netravali was a refreshing change from the typical Goa experience. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with a touch of nature, some local heritage, and a bit of luxury, Postcard Hideaway in Netravali is the perfect destination. Whether it’s exploring the bubbling lake, visiting nearby temples, hiking to waterfalls, or simply lounging by the pool, this is a vacation spot that offers something for everyone.
Tip: Network Connectivity
One important note: network connectivity in Netravali is almost non-existent for Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone users. If you’re planning a trip, be prepared for an absolute disconnect from regular phone calls and make backup plans for things like OTPs. Tata network works in the area according to hotel staff, but we didn’t test it personally.
Redemption Options for Postcard
Subscribe To Read More
This article is free to read but exclusively available to those who have subscribed using their email and are currently logged in
