Lullaby And Riverdance

Alan D’Mello checks out the Gateway Riverview Lodge, Chiplun

We chose to drive the 250 kilometres to Chiplun's Gateway Riverview Lodge. The lure of an idyllic weekend outweighed the perils of a five-and-a-half hour drive. The reward for our effort was worth it especially since the road being in mint condition helped a lot.

Leave Mumbai around 4:30-05:00 in the morning. Make the effort because you would not want to miss the front row show as the clouds roll past your balcony against a backdrop collage of the valley with its river meandering below, unhindered all the way to the nearby coast.

Barring a few hours in the summer sun, the four-star hotel managed by Taj until December this year offers cool climes. The mid-summer showers just before our arrival had already put new life into the well manicured lawns and gardens. One can imagine what the full force of the monsoon does to the thousands of flora species on the nine-and-a-half acre property.

Like the rains, the new management also promises to be good for the 38-room hotel. Built in 1988, the Lodge is designed on the lines of a manor. It is crescent-shaped and three storeys tall, has high ceilings, large verandahs and lots of wood trim. All the rooms are the same so no upgrades as such. But if possible, opt for those from 311 to 317 as they have the best views. The rooms, like the Lodge, reflect the ’80s style because they have never been redone.

Like the large rooms, the Lodge has been built for your family. Two twin beds allow for four per room, with ample space for extra company. The large bathrooms come without bathtubs (Sorry honeymooners), but the sort required to hose down the little humans. The clincher is the space; dollops of it, especially in the verandah and the play area. Other than the room, the play area at ground level is the second most popular place.

Do not stay indoors, explore the various levels of the lawns and use the pool. Yes, use the pool. It is so large, everybody has space. With the kiddy area just 1.6 feet and the main area only 4.5 feet deep, it is difficult not to take the plunge. For adventure, rock climb, river crossing, go to the virgin beaches 50 kilometres away, visit the local temples and forts or even watch the nearby Koyna dam release water every evening around 16:30 hours. Other forms of physical adventure include Ayurvedic massages and the gymnasium.

If you gather the strength to leave, stay back long enough to watch the idyllic morning one more time.