The resort is located about 30 kms from Sawantwadi, a convenient stop enroute road trip to Goa. We actually drove to Aronda on our way back from Goa – drove north to Sawantwadi and then south again towards Aronda – a drive of almost 100kms.
On reaching we were told that North Goa (Kiranpani) is not even a 100 meters ferry ride from Aronda. The ferry which operates with a half hour frequency is a convenient drive-in ferry - you can take your car on to the ferry and drive off on Goa side. Once in Goa with your vehicle, north Goa beaches are a easy drive – 5 km to Kerim beach, 9 kms to Morjim beach and 25 kms to Calangute.
We decided to leave the car at the hotel but take a ferry ride anyway. We saw all kind of local vehicles – few small cars, a tempo and a small truck drive on to the ferry and drive off the other side. What surprised us was the constant flow of bikes and scooters (largely foreigners) with Goa number plates – tourists from Goa who hire two wheelers and take the ferry to Maharashtra in the morning and return to Goa by the evening ferry.
We got an extremely warm reception from Mr Avinash Malvade, in-charge of the Lotus backwater Aronda resort. The resort itself is work in progress. While about 17 rooms are operational (including 4 floating cottages) – some more rooms and other facilities like swimming pool etc. are in planning stage.
So if you want lots of usual activities – the resort is not fully ready yet! However the location of the resort - on the river Terecol and amidst mangroves and dense coconut trees provides a great experience nevertheless. The resort also arranges boat ride in the usually calm Terecol river.
Among the room options – the floating cottages clearly stood out. They stand on independent platforms at the river shore; what stands out is the construction (using local matured wood) and the way various modern amenities have been arranged for in each of these cottages.
The service levels (room service, other requirements) were excellent, – though floating cottages are farthest from the service area so it takes more time. Food was great especially if you like the malvani preparation; one can also order fresh catch (fish like red snapper) prepared as per one’s liking.
I say a nice place to chill and (experience) tranquil.....
