The Postcard Hideaway Celebrates The Goan Holiday Less Taken – DP Reviews
The Postcard Hideaway was anything but a typical Goan resort. I wasn’t always just a few minutes from my favourite beach shack, I didn’t bag a sea view room, and there wasn’t a palm tree in sight. But that was never the goal. Everything about The Postcard Hideaway had been curated to offer a wholly different experience of Goa. It has forever changed my perception of a weekend Goan escape, and I’m better for it. In the South-Eastern part of the state tucked away in the undisturbed, lush forest of Netravali, this 20-cottage property lies on an expansive stretch of land; perfect for travelers looking for some restorative seclusion. Promoting a holistic wellness journey, the luxury hotel provides an immersive escape into nature.
#1 Backstory
The Postcard Hideaway is part of the larger Postcard Hotel group – a collection of intimate luxury hotels hidden in holiday destinations across India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Their ethos is rooted in the idea of authentic travel, sustainability, and slow living. Neighbourhoods and local communities are intrinsic to their offerings, reflected in the design sensibilities, cuisine choices, and experiences.
“While there is an audience that still prefers sizeable hotels, there are a lot more who have started to see value in the bespoke nature of boutique hotels, seeking exclusivity and individuality,” says Akanksha Lamba, Senior Vice President Operations at The Postcard Hotels. “From welcoming guests with handcrafted artisanal cocktails, providing them with flexible time to check-in and check-out, and the convenience of an anytime breakfast – The Postcard wants travellers to have the luxury to pace their holiday at their own time.” The Postcard Hideaway in Goa is amongst their newer outposts; it is less than a year old, yet reflects a timeless charm.
#2 Getting There
For a hotel sequestered in a lush, forested land, it is fairly accessible. A 90-minute drive from Goa’s International Airport will get you to The Postcard Hideaway. It lies in the South-Eastern part of the state tucked away in the environs of Netravali, within the Sanguem Taluka.
#3 Design And Architecture
Right from the layout of the property to the cabin interiors, The Postcard Hideaway has been envisioned to blend in wholly with its surroundings. The location takes centre stage, informing every creative decision. The master planning of the resort was done by a Singapore-based design firm, the execution was undertaken by The Postcard’s internal project and skilled interior design team. The luxury of privacy is fully acknowledged here – the twenty cabins are appropriately spaced, with each one feeling like an immersive bubble of secluded bliss.
Earth tones, natural materials, and rustic details serve to ground the otherwise modern and well-equipped cottages. Wood clad both the interior and exterior of the cottages, lending a sense of warmth and intimacy. Chic boho furnishings, wicker elements, and delightful details like vintage red rotary dial phones add character to every room. Built entirely on stilts, every cottage comes with its own private balcony that looks out onto the scenic Western Ghats.
This keen attention to detail is visible in the public areas of the hotel as well. As you make your way to the lobby, the outdoor dining, and lounge spaces, vibrant red heliconias frame the paths of the expansive grounds. A stunning piece of mosaic art in the lobby, envisioned by Goan artist Aadhi Vishal pays homage to the flora and fauna of the Netravali forest. Ultimately, the creative expression of The Postcard Hideaway has been to integrate luxury and functionality without disregarding the soul and heritage of the location.
#4 Dining
Right from the cool Kokum lemonade served to me upon arrival down to the very last dessert, the food at The Postcard Hideaway left nothing to be desired. The chefs use ingredients from the hotel’s own organic garden, celebrating the rich flavours of local Goan food. Less adventurous eaters are free to make off-the-menu requests; the kitchen will happily prepare a pesto pasta with the same skill as they would a chorizo pulao. My top recommendation, however, has to be the Konkan thali.
#5 Things To Do
The Postcard Hideaway offers several unique, local experiences ranging from guided nature trails to cycling tours. The less outdoorsy can avail of the signature wellness offerings at the property’s spa that prioritize holistic well-being and personalized treatments. You can also book a private experience at the open-air jacuzzi, or take a dip in the tree-fringed pool. Upon request, the hotel also arranges for yoga sessions at their spacious pavilion.
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#6 Conscious Hospitality
Mindfulness and sustainability are key to the Postcard ethos. Bamboo toiletries, glass bottles, and organic cotton tote bags serve as substitutes for single-use plastic. A chic amenity trolley replaces the mini-fridge in every room, and a stunning balcony view eliminates the need for a television. The architectural expression of The Postcard is to integrate luxury and functionality without disregarding the soul and heritage of the location.
“We not only place importance on uniting with a destination, its culture, traditions, and history, but also practice and integrate sustainability in various ways,” says Lamba. “We work closely with the community to employ, train, and up-skill them. The integration with the local community allows the resort to bring cultural authenticity while also contributing hugely towards positive and holistic growth.”
#7 The Verdict
The Postcard Hideaway is a paradise for slow travellers. It is easy to get to yet delightfully secluded, rustic and immersive yet wholly luxurious, all while making a compelling case for the ‘Goan holiday less taken’.
#DPLoves –
– The open-air jacuzzi nestled amidst the lush greens
– The picturesque views from every balcony
– The little personalized touches that stood out like freshly prepared local snacks in the amenity trolley and souvenir takeaways
– The immersive spa experiences
– The flexible check-in and check-out policy
