The Captains House

Simple but charming 3-bedroom house on a blissful off-the-beaten-track beach in North Goa

Accessible only via a 60m bamboo footbridge, on a totally private spit of land overlooking the ocean, and separated from the rest of the world by a salt water creek, stands The Captain's House. This traditional Portuguese villa, with its shuttered windows, cool natural flooring, period furniture and lofty terracotta-tiled roof, is the perfect peaceful haven for the sort of traveller who prefers rustic chic over the more brash and often soulless 5-star luxury resorts.

Away from the busy tourist areas of Baga and Calangute, near the tiny village of Mandrem, the house sits directly on the sand, with an open sit-out area where you can watch the sea by day, gaze at the stars by night, and cook fish over an open fire. Simple yet comfortable, this house is full of character, perfect for those who appreciate the things that time doesn't change. And, as the property can be rented together with The Priest's Houses or the wonderfully romantic Otter Creek Tents, it's also ideal for large groups of friends.

Highs

• There's total peace and tranquillity at this magical place, with understated luxury and stunning sea views
• Sitting out under the stars with a glass of wine listening to music on the stereo is the perfect end to a day
• The staff are fabulous and look after your every need
• There's a beach shack restaurant on site, and more beach restaurants a 15-minute stroll away
• It's a remote spot but you never feel exposed, as there are discreet security guards patrolling the grounds 24/7

Lows

• There's no pool - but the whole ocean is on your doorstep
• The approach - a 60m-long bamboo footbridge - may prove a little daunting for those nervous of heights
• Occasionally, if there are strong westerly winds (February to April), sand is blown towards the house and so the doors facing the sea have to be kept shut from noon to sunset
• Beware of the very strict cancellation policy