Tucked within Karnataka’s verdant Malnad hills of the Western Ghats, a region known for its coffee plantations among other things, take a break at Golden Wood’s 150 year old resort. Camping under the stars beside a lake, waking up to bird calls, or even trekking or biking in a 500 acre coffee plantation are just some of the things that make this eco-resort special.
Situated in Sakleshpur in the historic Manjarabad region, lies Harley Estate, perched at 3,400 feet and dating back to the early 1860s. The region is home to over 200 types of birds and various other wild life. It is also part of the Elephant Corridor.
And lying within the estate, surrounded by 500 acres of coffee plantation, greenery and lakes, and a gurgling stream for company, is Golden Wood (goldenwood.in).
The resort offers various stay options with their own peculiarities. Photographers will enjoy a stay at the Hill Top Cottage that offers an unparalleled view of the surrounding countryside. The Farmers Cottage is for travellers who want to have a rustic experience. The over a century old earth house is surrounded by paddy fields and a stream. The Brick Cottage has a huge shower area which is skylit and has a tree growing through it. Whispering Trees’ hall with glass walls and the dining and sit out on the terrace gives a great view of the area and is also the perfect place for bird watching.
However, Golden Wood prides itself in being ecologically friendly. The electricity used within the resort is generated hydraulically at one of the gushing waterfalls on the estate, or by solar. While most of the ingredients for meals are grown organically here.
Room rates start from ₹5,500 per couple for weekdays and from ₹7,200 per couple for weekends and holidays. Hwever, black-out dates apply. Rates include taxes, meals, snacks, tea/coffee, use of library and a selection of walks and treks inside the property.
Sakleshpur, about 12km from the estate is the most convenient connecting town, and the nearest railway station. Bengaluru, the nearest airport, is about 250km by road, from Sakleshpur.
Contact: stay@goldenwood.in tel: +91 99022 97022
Read our story on a holiday well spent at Golden Wood here.