5 offbeat stays to escape the city’s chaos this summer

Life in a metro can be chaotic, exhausting, and mundane. Sometimes, all one needs is a break to make room for some much-needed calm. If you wish to surround yourself with nature—think with sweet chirps, serene views, and a lot of quiet—a cabin-style retreat or a resort that opens straight into the wild is ideal for your next vacation. These unique boutique properties will also help you escape the throngs of vacationers that abound in typical vacation spots in summer.

From staying at the foothills of the Himalayas to enjoying luxe tree house stays, take your pick from our curated list of quaint, offbeat abodes across India.

Cabo Serai — Goa 

Cabo Serai is an eco-resort designed entirely by using sustainable resources that co-exist with the environment. Situated close to Cabo de Rama beach, off the pristine coast of South Goa, this place is home to luxury, sustainability, wellness, and mindfully-curated experiences. The surrounding serene and unexplored waterfalls make for great neighbours, while you restore your energy and enjoy the composed sounds of nature. Cabo Serai also customises wellness experiences which are curated by professionals to find naturopathic healing through detoxifying programmes, cliff side yoga retreats, beach sundowners, and village walks. If you want to make the fullest out of a break from your daily life, a stay at Cabo Serai is an absolute must.  

The Machan — Lonavala

Wooden cabin-like tree house set in the hill station of Lonavala is the place you want to be in for your relaxing vacation with a balanced mix of adventure and contentment. A comfortable two-hour drive from Mumbai, The Machan is an exclusive experience in Maharashtra. The tree house resort has a range of cabins on ground level and a few rising 45 feet above the forest with a private deck, an open-space shower, and a loft that opens up to a sky full of stars—an occurrence that is a sight for sore city eyes. Comprising trekking trails, spa sessions, yoga, and other experiences, The Machan will rejuvenate and refresh you in ways you haven’t known. 

The Westin Resort and Spa, Himalayas — Rishikesh

Set in the popular getaway destination of Rishikesh, this scenic property is located on the Himalayan foothills. A stay here with your loved one is a worthwhile way of disconnecting from the buzzing city and reconnecting with your soul and soulmate. Whether it is unwinding with a leisurely swim at the infinity pool or just staying in the comfort of plush rooms serving scenic views—there are umpteen ways to treat yourself at this restful stay. With restoring massages, facials and foot baths, a good pampering session at the Heavenly Spa Westin, will leave you with a relaxed state of mind.  

Baale Resort — Goa  

Baale offers its guests a welcome escape from the chaos of city life. Nestled in the charming village of Arpora, this Bali-inspired resort consists of seven gorgeous and secluded villas that will make you want to live there.  Each of these villas is equipped with a private swimming pool with a whirlpool, an in-villa chef's kitchen, a bar, a living room, a dining room, and open bathtub options. It also offers spectacular views of paddy fields, a host of spa and recreational facilities, and a members-only club. If you're looking to spend a few days in a tropical paradise but don't want to travel too far, Baale is the place for you. This property is a haven of peace, privacy, and indulgence, making it ideal for a quiet and relaxed getaway. 

Khem Villas — Ranthambore 

If you are planning a wild escapade with unceasing adventure, there’s no place better than Khem Villas. Tucked away on the outskirts of Ranthambore in Rajasthan, Khem Villas is founded by power duo Usha and Goverdhan Singh Rathore, who is helping put the park on the tiger map of the world. Along with extensive nature trails and walks around the jungle, you can truly experience tranquility with their deluxe Age Veda Spa and devour their vegetarian cuisines that are made with handpicked herbs and vegetables. You can also choose to cruise along the river on their Bayliner Boat and get a chance to see gharials, rare birds, and other aquatic species like skimmers, ospreys, turtles etc.