Discover 5 Hidden Gems of Goa

Goa's Fontainhas Latin Quarter is a hidden attraction in Goa’s capital city Panjim and is one of the only Latin Quarters in Asia giving a feel of Old Havana or New Orlean’s Latin Quarter. This colourful neighbourhood, with overhanging balconies, brightly coloured walls and Portuguese style houses, is one of its kind in India, waiting to be explored. One can admire the distinct charm of this place with a walk down the winding lanes.

When visiting Panjim, one can plan a stay at amã Stays & Trails La Maison Fontainhas. This elegant and sophisticated 8-room property is located in the middle of Fontainhas and features a renowned in-house restaurant, Desbue, which has the finest local cuisine in the area.

Believed to have been carved out of laterite rocks by Buddhist Monks, Rivona Caves are situated 5 km northeast of Ponda. The drapes of thick green cover on the entrance lead to a cave filled with intricate work on the walls. While here, one can feel the innate serenity of the meditative space it once served as. 

After an enriching experience of the caves, one can choose to stay at the nearby amã Stays & Trails Kharvi Abode. It is one of the best villas to stay in South Goa, where guests can indulge in the quintessential Goan way of living, right by the waterside.

The serene Divar Island is one of Goa's best-kept secrets. It has an old-world charm to it, untouched since the 16th century. At the very first glance, the refreshing scenery of the island imbibes a feeling of peace. As one goes deeper, they’ll find quaint structures, lanes filled with rich history and remnants of different architectures, making it a delight to uncover. The whole island is covered by blue-green coloured moss and picturesque Portuguese homes.

Not too far away from the island lies amã Stays & Trails Villa No.1, Saipem Hills. Featuring tastefully furnished rooms and handpicked artworks, the villa is one of the best places to stay in North Goa. The villa provides the guests with a simple and authentic homelike experience that will stay with them long after they leave.

The secluded Betul Beach is an unfrequented South Goan gem. Here, one can delight in some of the most pleasing views. One can head over to the charming lighthouse during the day, for a unique perspective of the area. Or watch the local fishermen cast their nets while enjoy a picnic on the quiet slopes overlooking the water. With the views of swaying trees, sea waves and hills, all in a single frame, Betul is the perfect spot to get lost in nature.

Located in the pristine coastal village of Betul, where river Sal meets the Arabian sea, lies amã Stays & Trails Kharvi Abode. This charming heritage villa has manicured lawns and sprawling spaces that offer stunning views of the waterfront, making it one of the best villas in South Goa. For a truly relaxing Goan experience, head over to this elegant villa.

Aguada Fort is a hillfort located on the coast of Aguada Beach. Steeped in history, the fort is an old jail that dates back to the 17th century and is a lighthouse point now. The fort is one of its kind, still housing prison cells that were used by the Britishers. The views from the top of the fort are breathtaking.

The Aguada beach below the fort is a picturesque spot too, with views of the sea fading into the horizon. Located 10 minutes away from Aguada Fort lies amã Stays & Trails Cardozo House, one of the best villas in North Goa. The villa has four spaacious Portuguese-style rooms that have the warmth of home, enabling one to sit back and relax. So next time you are in Goa, explore the region differently and experience the authenticity and simple pleasures of the region in homely comfort and with warm service at an amã Stays & Trails villa or bungalow.