Bet you didn't know there existed a private island shaped like a tortoise in Karnataka! Now now, although this is all the convincing you need to get straight to planning that much deserved intimate holiday, here's all you need to know about this true hidden gem that is Cintacor Island Resort.
A short 20-minute boat ride from the mainland jetty at Karwar (you can drive here or fly to Hubli & Dabolim airport and a pick up can be arranged), lies Cintacor, an unexposed beauty with 300 million-year-old rock formations and a private beach that hosts only 30 to 50 people at any given time. Surrounded by the Arabian sea, this place is also home to a reserve of untouched flora and fauna like sea eagles, terrapins, wild orchids. Lucky for us, it can now be our home too, courtesy this charming resort bang in the center of the island.
Run by The Little Earth Group, expect amenities that will sweep you off your feet. Deluxe and luxury cabins, all of which have balconies that overlook the glorious sea; spacious yet cosy, done up in warm blues and browns. After you're done lolling around in bed, jump straight into the infinity pool that looks like an extension of the shore! Or simply settle for a spa overlooking the Arabian waters.
Lastly, to put all that well earned energy to use, hitch a sunset/sunrise cruise or go dolphin watching (a pod has made these waters their year-round home)! How about a nature trail, remember the exotic flora & fauna? Truly, Cintacor is a little paradise this side of India.
