Named after the heart chakra, Anahata is associated with balance, calmness and serenity: three things you’ll definitely find here. Ensconced by swaying palms to the east, the Arabian Sea to the west, and Mandrem and Morjim beaches to the north and south, it’s a hidden gem within walking distance of Goa’s most popular coastlines. But don't be fooled by the rustic exteriors and laid-back vibe; owners Rishal and Angela play host to a list of chic clientele, from holidaying Londoners to weekenders from Mumbai.
The 21 beach cottages and bungalows are concealed amidst an acre of palm grove, the prime spot an Ibiza-style lounge area with perfect sunset views. Ideal for those wanting to connect with people rather than the internet, Anahata hosts a variety of classes and workshops from power yoga to tai chi; 5-rhythms dance to Qigong; as well as offering authentic Ayurvedic massages. Healthy living and eating is encouraged (though happily not enforced), and the L’Atelier restaurant serves fresh salads and delicious European flavours... along with potent cocktails. Everything in perfect balance!
Highs
- Fantastic value - and rates include taxes and breakfast
- The thatched cottages are light, spacious and quirkily designed - far superior to the usual dark and pokey offerings in this area
- Inspiring beach yoga and meditation, as well as an unusual choice of martial arts and mindfulness classes
- The location: walking distance from other great restaurants and beaches for a change of scene, yet quiet and undisturbed
- Rishal and Angela are perfect hosts - their love for Goa is infectious
Lows
- No pool and there are rip tides and rocks in the sea, so swimming is tricky
- Not for tech-junkies - the internet is unreliable and there are no TVs or music systems in the cottages / bungalows
- Little in the way of shade and mosquitoes can be a pain in the evening; bring sunscreen (insect repellent is provided)
Best time to go
For the best weather, visit between November and February. The Christmas-New Year period can get very busy, but things quieten down a lot from mid-January to February. In keeping with the seasons, Anahata is closed from May through to October, during the monsoon.
Our top tips
Goa's northern coastline has a growing design scene. Just a 5-minute walk away, Morjim Beach is home to some great little independent shops, including Jade Jagger's boutique and charming local offerings.
- Wellness Retreat
- 21 rooms
- Restaurant and bar (open daily)
- All ages welcome
- Open all year
- Pool
- Spa Treatments
- Beach Nearby
- Pet Friendly
- Disabled Access
- Car not necessary
- Parking
- Restaurants Nearby
- WiFi
- Air Conditioning
- Guest Lounge
- Terrace
- Garden
- Gym
Rooms
The accommodation is split between various categories of cottages and bungalows, each with different views.
The cottages have a luxurious desert-island feel, with exposed bamboo, thatched roofs, hanging lanterns and mirrors made from flotsam and jetsam. Light and airy, they open onto private terraces - book a Sea View Beach Cottage for uninterrupted ocean views. Kingsize or twin beds have beautiful carved wooden headboards. Walk-in wardrobes and open-plan shower bathrooms make good use of the curved space.
If you value function over form, the bungalows, set in colourful Portuguese-style houses, are more practical. Closest to the restaurant, they have charming terraces and simple white-on-white interiors.
Features include:
- Bathrobes
- Fan
- Hairdryer
- Minibar
- Mosquito net
- Safe box
- WiFi
Eating
The L'Atelier fusion restaurant is the heart of Anahata. Whitewashed tables are dotted around a sandy dining area, covered by the shade of palm trees by day and lit by twinkling lanterns by night. Insisting on an open-plan kitchen, Angela is pedantic about the food. Everything, from the sauces to the pickles, is made from scratch, and the meat and fish are sourced from the best local suppliers.
Over cocktails as the sun went down, we chose from a dinner menu of simple, hearty dishes. My peri-peri kingfish was a succulent homage to Goa’s traditional Portuguese flavours. Breakfast showcases Anahata’s ethos of 'balance'. I chose the healthy option - a tangy Bircher muesli with spirulina and toasted cashew nuts - but they're just as happy to serve a Full English with all the trimmings.
Features include:
- Bar
- Coffee maker
- Restaurant
- Restaurants nearby
- Vegetarian options
Activities
- Do morning and sunset beach yoga and meditation; utterly rejuvenating ways to begin and end the day
- Or try something more adventurous. There's an ever-changing roster of workshops, from martial arts to 5-rhythms dance
- Ashvem Beach is quiet with calm waves, ideal for learning to surf. Book a lesson with the trusted instructor
- Visit the atmospheric Saturday Night Market in Arpora. Local artisans pedal handmade clothing and jewellery, and it's a great place for local food and live music
- Day trip to Old Goa and explore the quaint, colourful Latin Quarter. On the way back, hike up to the lesser-known Church of Our Lady of the Mount; best done in the afternoon for cooler weather and stunning sunset views
Activities on site or nearby include:
- Historical sites
- Private guided tours
- Shopping / markets
- Surfing
- Well being
- Yoga
Kids
Anahata welcomes families though the vibe is very peaceful. There are no kids' programmes in particular, but children will enjoy playing on the beach, paddling in the sea and learning to ride the waves on a boogie board. Babysitting services are available for a small cost and all rooms can fit an extra bed. Families of 4+ will need two rooms.
Family friendly accommodation:
The bungalows are closest to the restaurant.
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Location
Anahata Retreat is set on Ashvem (Ashwem) Beach, just under an hour’s drive from Manohar airport.
By Air:
Manohar International (30km away) is the closest airport, approx. a 50-minute drive.Dabolim International (55km away) is Goa's main airport, with flights from more countries - click on the links below for a list of airlines.
From the Airport
Ask for a transfer in advance or pick up a taxi at the airport.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Goa and getting around
Airports:
- Manohar Airport 30.0 km GOX
- Dabolim International 52.0 km GOI
Other:
- Beach 0.1 km
- Shops 1.0 km
- Restaurant 1.0 km