Avalon Inn: Mandrem,North Goa, India

Find serenity in this unique Goan haven 

Image courtesy of Ben Ricci

Designed from scratch by owners Erika and Salvador in 2007, Avalon Inn is a restful resort in Mandrem, a small and buzzy seaside village in North Goa, located a 1.5-hour taxi journey from Goa airport.

Nestled between quiet fields and two well-established yoga villages, with the beach and the local village only a 10-minute walk away, the inn is well positioned for those who wish to explore the delights of North Goa.  

A welcoming reception 
One of the first things guests will notice about the reception is the marble flooring, elegant windows and high-beamed ceilings, which echoes the Indo-Portuguese inspiration found throughout Avalon Inn.

The friendly owners are very accommodating and go to considerable lengths to give guests a taste of Goan country living, which is the perfect marriage of simplicity and vitality.

While breakfast isn’t provided at the inn, don't let this put you off as it's only a two-minute walk to the nearby yoga village where one can easily find healthy, reasonably priced breakfast options.

Image courtesy of Avalon Inn

​Accommodation options at Avalon Inn
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including lovely stone cottages, bungalows and the main villa. All the rooms have been carefully curated in a traditional Indo-Portuguese style, resulting in a quaint and serene haven. 
 
Pink Bungalows 
I stayed in a lovely pink bungalow set in a crescent of five amongst coconut palms and fragrant Frangipani trees. Inside, the facilities include a spacious bedroom and separate wet room. There is a small, open wardrobe with ample shelves, a bedside corner unit – complete with kettle and cups – and the obligatory mosquito net. Thanks to the clay-tiled roof and a ceiling fan, the rooms remain cool and pleasant, even on a hot day. 
 
I loved waking every morning and heading out to the private veranda, which featured built-in stone seats and comfy cushions, where I would enjoy listening to the sound of beautiful birdsong as the sun rose.
 
Stone Cottages 
For those who are looking for a truly unique experience, the Opal and Pearl stone cottages with their open-air rain showers, are a popular option. Located only 20 metres from each room, these showers give guests the opportunity to shower beneath the stars and a canopy of palm leaves. Each cottage also offers a fridge, kettle, ceiling fan, private veranda, toilet and wash basin.

Villa Joia 
Villa Joia is literally and figuratively the jewel in Avalon’s crown – Joia means jewel in Portuguese. This magnificent building houses four rooms over two floors and it boasts a fantastic panoramic platform at the top of the house that overlooks the surrounding countryside and views out to sea. It’s a flexible space that is often used for small receptions, recitals, private events and yoga largely due to its size – 56 square metres - and cool marble flooring. 
 
Each of the rooms (Ruby, Topaz, Onyx and Amber) are fully equipped with satellite TV, fridge and hot drink making facilities. They are the most comfortable at Avalon and include a private balcony and ceiling fan. The upstairs rooms offer a two-seater corner bathtub and downstairs there is a small kitchenette for those who opt for self-catering. ​

​The Verdict 
If you’re looking for harmony and tranquillity, Avalon Inn is just the ticket. Its attractive layout, comfortable accommodation and lawned garden – a rarity in India – sets it aside from other options in the locality.
 
The details
Prices vary according to season and length of stay. It’s best to book direct rather than going through an affiliate. Their season runs from 1st October – 31st March annually. 
 
www.erikapearlvilla.com 
 
Avalon Inn
H.No.364 Asvewada
Mandrem
Goa
India 

A summary of our experience at Avalon Inn

• Best bits: Watching the sea eagles soar overhead each morning 
• Worst bits: Leaving after such a wonderful stay!  
• Perfect for: Female solo travellers and yoga enthusiasts  

Ben Ricci
*During my visit I was hosted by the lovely team at Avalon Inn. All views are my own.

​Our experience overall
The property: ★★★★★
Staff attentiveness/friendliness: ★★★★★