SwaSwara

Find your own rhythm at this boutique yoga hotel beside a palm-fringed Om-shaped beach near the Goa-Karnataka border

Taking its name from the local word for ‘inner voice’, this all inclusive beach retreat is a place to find yourself. Set in acres of coconut groves and paddy fields, the retreat’s daily programmes include various yoga and meditation sessions, so you can pick and choose what suits you. There are 2 levels - gentle and progressive - plus private tuition if you feel you need more. Alternatively you can spend lazy days on the beach, swimming laps in the pool and bird-watching in the forest.

SwaSwara - actually in Karnataka, but listed our Goa section because most visitors tie it in with Goa - is a short walk from the famed beaches of Gokarna. The nearest is Om beach, so-called because it's shaped like the mystical symbol for the sound of the universe. If this all sounds a bit hippy dippy, well, it probably isn’t the place for you.

There are elements that are more left-field; daily ayurvedic therapy sessions, ranging from hot oil massages to herbal pummelling panchakarma treatements are prescribed after a visit to the resort’s qualified doctors. But visitors tend to love it and come time and again to experience its calm tranquillity and life-affirming properties. There's fantastic fresh food, 24 comfortable suites, great service and green credentials, including a biomass burner and rainwater harvesting.

Highs

• The staff are attentive, friendly and happy to help or stop for a chat
• The villas are spacious, private and luxurious - a far cry from an ashram dormitory
• You can have a personally tailored yoga programme plus private yoga sessions through the day for no extra cost
• Great for solo travellers (although there is a supplement)
• The place to come for a life-changing, spiritual experience à la Eat, Pray Love

Lows

• The minimum stay is 5 nights; Ayurvedic programmes require at least 7 nights
• It’s 3 hours’ drive from the nearest airport
• The site is alcohol free (apart from a small range of local Indian wines), but there are other restaurants close by
• Limited food options if you don’t like Indian food, vegetarian meals or seafood
• No children under 15 allowed - the atmosphere is focused on serenity and calmness