Head to Novotel Dona Sylvia, Goa for your share of luxury, serenity, breathtaking views and unspoiled adventure
By Namita Gupta
One can never get tired of visiting the sunshine state of India that always has so much to offer. The surf, sun and sand on the pristine beaches of Goa never cease to amaze and tempt the curious traveler. One can never even in a hundred times get tired of its natural beauty. Often misunderstood by few and sometimes misused, India’s smallest state known for its natural bounty, also has a unique cultural heritage. The quintessential Goans or the Goenkars as they’re called reflect the friendly vibes of the beach state – relaxed and open to various cultures while retaining the ethos of their lineage.
On the Southern coast of Goa, situated on the white sands of Cavelossim Beach on the Arabian Sea coastline, far from the world’s hustle and bustle – lies Novotel Dona Sylvia, a luxurious five star resort spread over 20 acres of lush gardens, swaying palm trees and 181 spacious rooms, Mediterranean-styled villas and suites. Experience pristine white sands, water sports, magnificent sunsets, splendid skies, warm hospitality and local and international gastronomy at Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort, an AccorHotels venture, in partnership with the Alcon Victor Group.
Novotel Dona Sylvia combines the old-world charm of Dona Sylvia and the new-world luxury of Novotel. AccorHotels has rebranded the globally known Dona Sylvia Resort to Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort, adding the Novotel brand essence with modern refurbishments to create a fairytale essence. The resort also has two magnificent Seaside Lawns by the beautiful white sands of Cavelossim Beach, making it a perfect setting for events, parties, weddings and black-tie affairs, Sohum Spa with a variety of Indian Ayurvedic treatments, aromatherapy sessions, an outdoor pool, a fitness centre and an activity area. Pick up any of the cycles parked near the pool area and go cycling around the property anytime you feel like and take a peek into the rich traditional Portuguese culture through a mix of contemporary and local heritage architecture, built like a small luxury village in idyllic surroundings.
Indulge in an eclectic range of spectacular dining options at Novotel Dona Sylvia Resort. Seagull, the all-day dining restaurant, serves delectable buffet spreads, scrumptious a-l-a carte meals and an unparalleled dining experience with live cooking stations in a plush partial al fresco ambience. Mama Mia, the resort’s poolside grill restaurant has an appetising selection of fiery grills prepared by the talented chefs. If you want a taste of authentic Indian delicacies head to Kebabs & Kurries, the fine dining Indian outlet that whips up enticing signature dishes from the royal kitchens of India. And what’s Goa without some good ol’ booze? The resort has some intimate bar settings with mesmerising views of the pool at Amalia & Tia Maria, the poolside and lobby bars. Next time you think of some sossegado by the beach, you know where to go.
Where: Novotel Dona Sylvia, Cavelossim Beach, Goa 403731.
‘GOA’ING BEYOND
Must-do activities near the Cavelossim Beach include:
Water sports – Indulge in water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, surfing, wilderness boating, cruising, white water rafting, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, wind surfing, kite surfing, angling, water zorbing, dolphin viewing, banana boat ride, ringo ride and more.
Art – Art lovers must visit Goa Chitra, an ethnographic museum in Benaulim and at driving distance from Novotel Dona Sylvia that is preserving the past from the pre-electricity era to enrich the future, designed with a high oil-grinding implement as its focal point. The museum reflects the indigenous methods used in old times in Goa, their craftsmanship, their art and folklore. There are over 4000 artifacts on display reflecting the culture of ancient Goa. The brainchild behind the museum and restoring old Goan homes, Victor Hugo Gomes’ passion to showcase the ancestry is evident as he takes us around Goa Chitra where he is leaving no stones unturned to preserve and celebrate the history of the Goan identity. Other interesting museums in Goa include Goa State Museum, Museum of Goa, Museum of Christian Art, Wax World Museum and many more.
Churches – Se Cathedral, Bom Jesus Basilica, Church of St Francis of Assisi, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Church of St. Cajetan, Monte Hill and many more.
