Ditch the beach! Aah, that's not exactly what we meant when we said this! We know that you love Goa for its beaches, and it is these beaches that attract thousands of tourists to this tiny paradise annually. And, nothing quite compares to the blue sea and golden sands of Goa.
What we really mean is ditch the beach when you find it crowded with people, and find yourself longing for some peace and quiet, and desperately looking for a way to spend quality time with your loved ones.
So, what do you do when you are overwhelmed with such feelings? How about trying out farmstays!
These experiences are far from the din of city life and beaches, and are located in the seclusion and calm of nature. You can choose to spend a day with family or have a picnic or overnight bonfire experience.
Farmstays such as these can rejuvenate you. Not only that, but they can also provide exciting adventure activities such as kayaking, bird watching, etc.
Wondering which of these would best suit you? Then, check out these farmstays that provide a truly authentic Goan experience, with a hint of adventure.
1. NANDANVAN SPICE FARM
If you're looking to beat the summer heat, and spend a day indulging in adventure activities in Goa, then the Nandanvan Spice Farm, in Khandepar, should be on your bucket list.
The place has two large pools that will help to perfectly beat the summer heat. You can spend hours lounging in the pool, or simply take a tour of the farm and educate yourself about the various spices and their amazing medicinal benefits.
What makes it even more exciting is the food on offer -- truly authentic and prepared from locally grown spices.
Feeling adventurous? Try out the sporting activities such as Zip Lining, which is said to be one of the longest in Goa.
Alternatively, you can take an adventure ATV ride. This waterpark-like experience is just perfect for one-day picnics with family, colleagues and friends.
DETAILS
LOCATION: Codar, Near Opa Water Works, Panjim-Belgaum Road, Khandepar, Goa
TIMINGS: Monday to Saturday, open 24 hours a day (closed on Sundays)
SUITABLE FOR: Day picnics with family, friends & large corporate groups
2. ROCK VALLEY GOA
If you'd prefer an overnight stay experience in the jungles of Goa, then the newly-launched Rock Valley might interest you.
Within the Nandanvan Farm itself is a stay that includes wooden cottages along with zip lining, infinity pool, ATV rides, high rope course, spice tour, bird watching, valley walks, kayaking, shooting, human gyro and bungee trampoline.
DETAILS
LOCATION: Nandanvan Goa, Opa-Codar Road, Near Opa Water Works, Ponda
CONTACT:7722016994
WEBSITE: rockvalleygoa.com
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/rockvalleygoaresort
3. FOUR SEASONS FARM
Dreaming of chilling by the river? If that's the vibe that appeals to you, Four Seasons Farm might be just what the doctor ordered.
This venue offers wooden cabins for guests to stay, while the river flowing by the side makes it oh so heavenly!
You can opt to spend a day by the river with your fam, or take an overnight trip and enjoy the bonfire and barbecue.
4. NV ECO FARM
Another farm that is situated in the secluded interiors of Goa, and surrounded by several plantations of mangoes, areca nut, coconut and more, is the NV Eco Farm. The place is far from any urban noise, and the area is peppered with various spice and other plantations.
You can spot beautiful butterflies in the butterfly garden or locate a tree which goes best with your zodiac sign. The garden is said to be designed based on one's zodiac sign, which is rather interesting!
Guests are also taken on a cashew trail during cashew season in Goa, and they get to see, first-hand, how cashew juice is extracted the traditional way, as well as how urrak and feni are made.
There is also delicious Goan food on offer, which is another thing you shouldn't miss. The farm has several adventure spots to keep guests entertained during their visits.
DETAILS
WHERE: Kirlapal, Dabal
TIMINGS: 9AM TO 6PM
EMAIL: info@nvecofarm.com/ nimividi@gmail.com
WEBSITE: www.nvecofarm.com
CONTACT: 919422062703 / 8411026035
5. MANGAL FARMSTAY
In the deep interiors of Goa, in Netravali, is the Mangal Farmstay, which might surprise you. This farmstay offers luxury wooden beds and cozy canopies.
Here, the deluxe rooms, in earthy tones, are absolutely tranquil, well-equipped and designed for comfort and relaxation.
The standard rooms open up into a common veranda, which has a pretty flower garden. These rooms are smaller, yet cozy n comfortable for that perfect retreat inside nature.
The food at Mangal is fascinating -- a community dining table where the freshly-picked harvest is prepared and served to guests. The idea behind this is that guests can start a conversation revolving around nutritious seasonal fruit and vegetables, cooked home-style, sans too much spice. Even the vegetables grown in this farm,use balanced eco-friendly farming practices.
DETAILS
LOCATION: Mangal Village, Quepem Taluka, South Goa
CONTACT: 9422464264 / 7017454123
WEBSITE: mangaalfarmstay.com
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/mangaalfarmgoa
