How Did We Miss This Resort With An In-Room Jacuzzi, An Ayurvedic Spa & A Cute Boutique?

Brightland Resort and Spa tout themselves as, “Mahabaleshwar’s finest resort”, located on a lush green hillside. Their contemporary-chic interiors and modern amenities, coupled with picturesque views of the surrounding Sahyadris and Krishna Valley make it the perfect destination for a romantic couples’ getaway.

Brightland Resort and Spa is about a 2.5hr drive (around 120km) away from Pune. Tucked away in the hilly outskirts of Mahabaleshwar, it’s a quiet property, surrounded by lush greenery. If you have difficulty with directions, find detailed instructions on the resort’s website.

We like that they have around 9 categories of rooms to choose from (making it 86 rooms, spread over 5 buildings), each with its own chic style, comfy furnishings, and stunning views. Some of their suites even have an in-room jacuzzi, making it ideal for couples and honeymooners. Brightland has their own restaurants, featuring multi-cuisine (Indian, Italian, Chinese) and BBQ fare, as well as a lounge-bar overlooking the Sahyadris and the backwaters of Dhom Dam.

In case you’d rather stay in (or enjoy a midnight snack), 24-hour room service is available as well. The amenities at Brightland leave nothing to be desired – a pool, jacuzzi, health club, indoor-games room (carrom, foosball, air hockey, table tennis), toddler/kids’ zone, library, gym, and sports courts (tennis, volleyball, basketball, and a pool table) and ensure that everyone has something to keep them entertained. Make the most of your vacay, and treat yourself to a day of bliss at their Prana Spa – one of the finest in Mahabaleshwar, offering ‘holistic treatments based on Ayurveda, Oriental and Western traditions’ in one of their private spa-suites. Choose from a range of treatments: from full- body massages and scrubs, to hot-stone massages and facial therapies. Go one step further, and book an appointment with Prana Spa’s own professional Ayurvedic doctor for a health consult. Check out the spa’s boutique, where you can purchase their range of ‘homemade natural products’.

We hear that resort guests can also enjoy exclusive access to the golf course at Mahabaleshwar Club – at extra charge, of course. Other activities like horse-back riding, trekking, hiking, bird-watching, sightseeing tours and private transport can be arranged for by the resort, on request. The resort is also a popular spot for corporate retreats, conferences, weddings, and other special occasions. Breakfast is usually included in the room rate, and prices are a little steeper than most hotels in the area – but we think it’ll be worth your while, because of the high standards of service, and quality of the amenities offered here.