When life is a villa and a quiet beach

Susheela Nair, Bengaluru

AS I clambered up a series of red laterite stone steps lined by lilies, spider plants and indigenous plants, I could already sense the healing touch of the environs. Adding to the verdant ambience were the winding pathways leading to my hilltop villa. A small wooden bridge led to the living room of my villa which was open to nature. The villa with its breathtaking sea view will arouse the muse in you. It is a perfect retreat from the fret of city life and deemed to be a haven for holiday-makers. Far from the madding crowd, hidden from the public eye, Coco Shambala Resort is a favourite hangout of celebrities and film stars.

The focal point of the resort is the infinity pool which keeps you company while you dip, tan or sip a cocktail. From the open living room of my villa, I had a sweeping view of the infinity pool and the horizon. The living room was an open pavilion with a kitchenette, and the two bedrooms had their own sit-outs.

A harmonious blend of traditional Konkani aesthetics and modern design, it’s home to four private, opulent villas, scattered across the property at different levels. Standing on an elevation above ground level, they are raised on steel columns. Giles Knapton, director of Coco Shambala, drew inspiration from the local style of open living pavilions familiar to this region. Each house in Sindhudurg has a private infinity pool facing out to sea, which allows you to reflect on your experiences whilst relaxing in gloriously cool water, a soothing contrast to the heat of the day.

Constructed using locally sourced materials, the property is surrounded by jungle-style gardens and blends seamlessly with the landscape. Wild and remote, one can see a juxtaposition of rugged nature and culture. A rope slung across the entrance informs the staff of your need for privacy. Each villa is set apart from the other, to avoid any disturbance. The eco-conscious principles of the owner are discernible in the use of the locally sourced materials, sloping Mangalore tiled roofs, polished concrete floors, proliferation of indoor plants, elegant coconut wood furniture and minimalist décor combined with laid-back vibes. 

Coco Shambala Sindhudurg is a very special escape, but it’s the location in southern Maharashtra, a spectacular gem of India, which makes the experience incredible. We were overwhelmed by the wild, rugged luxury and the warm hospitality that makes you want to return. 

 

BESPOKE MEALS

Interestingly, the resort doesn’t have a restaurant or reception. “Each meal comes with a different variety and is served inside at your designated time. The meals are prepared as per the guests’ specific tastes. From   home-grown herbs, microgreens and vegetables to the sizzling catch of the day, the cuisine is a celebration of local culture,” says Suhas, the F&B manager. Chef Dilip and the culinary team whip up great repasts with Konkani flavours, paired imaginatively with other cuisines.

The villa’s living room and inifinity pool

We gorged on an assortment of super-fresh seafood preparations as we listened in rapt attention to Chef Dilip rattling off the names of the different kinds of Malvani dishes.  I relished the Curry Leaf Sungta (butter and curry leaf poached prawns with garlic slivers and topped with peanuts). Other equally popular non-vegetarian dishes include the Kombdi Vade (chicken curry and a special bread) and Murgh Malvani which consists of the traditional Malvani chicken curry (including chunks of chicken with bones) with vade (like a puri, it is a fluffy, fried bread of wheat and nachni flour), onion, lemon and Solkadhi. 

For dessert, I had Modak (Konkan-style dumplings stuffed with coconut, jaggery and dry fruits). I also savoured other mouth-watering creations like sweet Malwani chilli chocolate ganache (kokum sauce, local biscuit crumble, pomegranate) and Serra Dura (dessert with cream, biscuit crumble). 

 

THINGS TO DO

The relatively undiscovered Bhogwe beach is just a stroll away. It offers stunning views of the sea and sunsets! With the ruins of Nivati Fort playing sentinel to a secluded stretch of white sand, Nivati is amongst the most beautiful beaches in the entire stretch. It is dramatic and peaceful at the same time. One can either hike to it across the rocks from Bhogwe beach or take a 15-minute boat ride. 

For the spiritually inclined, the resort arranges visits to the ancient Laxmi Narayan temple, the Mouli temple, and the Sun temple. One can also explore Sindhudurg’s marine life by indulging in water sports like scuba diving or snorkelling with a trained expert. Embark on a boat trip for dolphin spotting, or drift down the Kurli river which joins the Arabian Sea, discover waterfalls, go on a birdwatching walk, or head out on a guided trek through the lush landscape that ends with a bird’s-eye view of the surroundings. For a history buff, a trip to Sindhudurg Fort is just a boat ride away. Avoid the monsoons as the fort is marooned out in the sea. If you want to know more about indigenous art and shadow puppetry, ensure you visit the Thakar Adivasi Kala Aagan Museum and Art Gallery. 

 

Fact File

Reaching there: Fly 91 has started direct flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad to Sindhudurg. The nearest railway station, Kudal, is a 30-minute drive from the resort.

Contact details: Coco Shambhala, Bhogwe Turtle Beach, Maharashtra – 416 523.

Mobile: + 91 80073 74123