A getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai is practically a seasonal mandate. So when the temperature drops and a fog descends on the city, taking off for higher altitudes is a great idea. Lonavala, the Maharashtrian hill station that's a 3-hour road trip away from the cities of Mumbai and Pune, is popular for its clean air and crisp breeze during the season. Conveniently located for a commute by train, bus or car, the hilltop destination is also home to the Radisson Resort & Spa.
Touted as Lonavala's premier luxury resort that launched in 2021, it has gone on to be frequented by celebrities including Mukesh Ambani and Gauahar Khan. Nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats, the upscale resort blends modern amenities with Maharashtrian culture to provide a serene escape from the chaos of city life. This winter, if you're looking for a cosy weekend getaway, we've got 6 reasons why you should head to the Radisson Resort & Spa in Lonavala.
1. A Traditional Welcome
Guests are welcomed with warmth and hospitality from the moment they arrive. Upon arrival, they are greeted by the resort's friendly staff with a traditional welcome, including a tikka being applied on one's forehead, the sounding of the traditional musical gong and refreshing drink in hand, to make the check-in a little sweeter.
2. The Interiors Speak Of History
Don't be surprised to enter into a dark stone-embossed lobby that looks more like a cosy ski lodge in St. Moritz than Maharashtra. The entrance lobby has a grand cylindrical space which recreates the towers of Shivaji's forts. Designed by Indian architect Kamal S Malik, that's only one of the ways in which the resort amalgamates sustainable design with local Maharashtrian culture.
The resort has adapted eco-friendly design practices by reusing natural elements such as stones from the site for stone-cladding of the entire building. The hotel is divided into two sections, Sinhgad and Vijaygad, located on either side of the property. Outdoors, it also houses the country's largest Gabion wall which is approximately 21-meters in length and a visual spectacle.
3. Accomodation Is Made For All
Whether you're a couple relishing a romantic escapade, a group of friends wanting to celebrate the weekend or a family seeking a peaceful getaway, this is an ideal destination for rejuvenation, romance or merriment for all kinds of groups. Guests can choose from 4 categories of elegantly-designed rooms and suites with a total of 103 rooms, each with various offerings like a breathtaking balcony view of the surrounding hills, lush greenery of the hotel, spacious rooms and even a five-seater open deck whirlpool in the Presidential suite. It's no wonder that guests have found a lot to love within the resort, with some having returned in double digits.
4. The Food Will Spoil You For Choice
Take the evening off for a meal at their open-air restaurant that featured an extensive chef's special degustation menu illuminated by candle light. From the most tender smoked galouti kebabs to shrimp-stuffed rice paper parcels, it'll be a memory for the ages. Dining options at the resort include Hirkani, an eclectic cuisine restaurant with emphasis on Indian cuisine and Malhari, a trendy lifestyle bar serving grills and cocktails.
Their daily buffet breakfast offers a great variety of continental and Indian dishes and beverages, with a special emphasis on Maharashtrian specialties. The resort's newly launched evening hi-tea offers a delightful range of local snacks like vadas and bhajiyas with pastries and croissants too. Accompanied by chai or coffee of your choice set amidst the manicured poolside garden, you won't want to miss this meal.
5. Wellness Is A Top Priority
The purpose for many of coming all the way out to Lonavala is to de-stress from busy city living. The resort knows this well; which is why they make wellness a top priority within the amenities they offer. The Spa at Radisson, their full-service wellness center, promises a rejuvenating experience set against a koi pond and rose petal pools. Pick from a variety of scrubs or massages for a personalised experience that includes hand-selected oils and adjustment of pressure for the treatment.
The fitness centre at the resort, which runs from early in the morning until late at night, is equipped for all kinds of workout sessions with state-of-the-art gym equipment from Salman Khan's fitness brand, Being Strong. If outdoor exercise is more your thing, then head to its outdoor swimming pool called Kund, which is designed in the shape and color of an actual kund; a traditional water reservoir, while also maintaining the temperature of the water in a similar manner.
And if stepping outside the cosy confines of the room proves to be too big an ask, then there's a thoughtful self-care service to opt for in your bathtub too. Request for a special bath for the hotel team to whip you up a special mix of flowers, milk and honey in the bath tub so that you don't even need to step outside to soak in the self-care.
6. The Amenities Are Par Excellence
In addition to the outdoor pool and fitness centre, take a walk in their landscaped garden, sit on the poolside swings or visit their recreation room to play a range of activities like darts, table tennis and air hockey. Besides the usual line-up of amenities, the hotel also offers trekking trips to nearby forts, cycling getaways in the surrounding areas as well as karaoke sessions and movie nights within the hotel premises.
Events can also be hosted at the hotel as they have provisions for over 4,500 square metres of indoor and outdoor event space through their seven venues, which includes a ballroom, lawn, banquet hall and boardroom. Jam-packed with offerings for every purpose, that makes it perfect for families, couples, and corporate groups alike.
Whether for a peaceful getaway, a wellness retreat, or a family vacation, these highlights are reason enough for you to book your stay at the Radisson Resort & Spa in Lonavala to enjoy a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty by the hillside.
Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world