Araqila by SaffronStays: A New Resort on the Konkan Coast
Twelve forts built between the 17th and 19th centuries by the Marathas have been collectively inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list this year. Included in this so-called ‘Maratha Military Landscapes of India’ are a few fortresses along the Konkan coast. The most imposing of these is the 17th-century Sindhudurg Fort in Malvan. A mere 60 km south of this historic site, a modern-day fortress now looms above the coast. Perched above the village of Arawali in the Sindhudurg district, Araqila by SaffronStays stands on a gentle cliff overlooking the mouth of the Mochemad River as it opens into the Arabian Sea.
Design Delight
This is the first foray into the boutique resort space for the private villa rental platform, SaffronStays. The name Araqila combines the village of Arawali with ‘qila’, which means fort. The resort’s low-rise curvilinear design (by London-based Serie Architects) nods to Maharashtra’s famous forts that typically follow the contours of their mountain-top settings. Araqila’s whitewashed walls curve and undulate unexpectedly, creating a wavelike motion almost mirroring the seascape.
Sweeping views of the sea are ever-present, whether it’s from the expansive lobby, the restaurant with floor-to-ceiling glass, the open-to-air infinity pool, or from each of the 25 suites. Seven of these are ‘king suites’ with a spacious living area. All suites come with either a private sit-out or a balcony. Inside, the minimalist decor sports a nautical theme with white and blue furnishing. Soft bedding and linens create a comforting cocoon that you will not want to step out of.
Seaside Getaway
But step out you must, if only to touch (landscaped) grass or to walk along the stone-paved path cutting through it as it climbs ever so gently. From the highest point of the property, the entire vista makes a perfect picture, particularly near sunset. Or trek down to the beach via a trail that lazily curves down the cliff, punctuated by steps, making it accessible even for someone with baseline fitness levels.
Both the Arawali and Mochemad beaches are used only by local fisherfolk and are not touristy. The resort intends to keep it that way by forgoing any water sport activities like jet skis or parasailing. They do however offer boating and kayaking in the river (except in the monsoon). The popular Vengurla Beach is just 11 km (20-minute drive) from Araqila. Sindhudurg Fort is a 90-minute drive away, making it a great half-day excursion.
Culinary Offerings
Araqila’s culinary offering will undoubtedly be a highlight of your stay. The kitchen’s repertoire extends from local Malvani and Maharashtrian dishes to Indian and international favourites. So, there’s pasta, pizza, sandwiches, paneer makhani, biryani, and the like to feast on. However, do try the local specialties like ghavan (soft, thick rice dosa) and missal pao (fiery moth bean curry with bread) for breakfast. Don’t miss Malvani chicken tambda rassa (spicy chicken curry) served with vade (golden-fried rice flour puris). The Arawali fish thali is a must-try with rawa-fried fish like pomfret, surmai (kingfish), or chonak (sea bass), prawn curry, laal math bhaji (amaranth leaf preparation), bhakri (unleavened flatbread), rice kheer, and more. For vegetarians, there’s a Maharashtrian thali that features kaju mushroom Malvani, a local favourite cashew nut preparation.
If you want to try your hand at Malvani cuisine, the kitchen can organise a cooking class. You will learn how to make perfectly round bhakris by just patting with your hand (no rolling pin required)and fry locally caught muddoshi (ladyfish) into crunchy bar bites. Also, understand how the humble kokum (dried mangosteen) adds tartness and depth to Malvani curries.
Sunset Views
In the evening, enjoy an al fresco high tea on the cliff-top lawn with kothimbir vadi (crispy snack made with fresh coriander, gram flour, and spices), assorted bhajis (pakoras), tea/coffee, and more. Later, move to the all-glass spherical bar at the top end of the property for a sundowner. A spa is also scheduled to open soon near the infinity pool.
Araqila by SaffronStays is located just 36 km (less than an hour’s drive) from North Goa’s Manohar International Airport (Mopa) making it an accessible holiday destination. So, the next time you’re looking for a holiday away from Goa’s touristy beaches, take the road less travelled to coastal Sindhudurg where Araqila stands like a modernist seaside fortress. It’s the perfect place to slow down and bask in the warmth of Konkan’s hospitality — the spectacular sunsets are an added bonus.
