Green is the colour of freshness and hope. Of growth, and renewal. Of nature and its many wonders. So, how about making this Holiday Season all about a Green Christmas? Embraced by greens, stunning views and plenty of opportunities to make memories, we share a list of the best Christmas getaways near Mumbai and Pune.
Who says you can’t have a backyard Christmas tree? We’ve given these homes a green light, already.
Masaya, Alibaug
Get ready to scale new heights of awesomeness at this 3-bedroom veg-only villa set on a picturesque hill. Keep your wine glasses ready as you surrender yourself to this cute home that has two outdoor sitting areas, numerous decks and an attached bar. This pet-friendly villa in Alibaug has lush green surroundings and an organic garden, too. Complement the chilly weather with lip-smacking Rajasthani and North Indian delights. In the mood for adventure? Trek up the private mountain nearby and disconnect in the true sense of the word.
Check out Masaya.
SanvinaFarm, Karjat
If we had to pick one home from our roster that represents the colour green, we would choose this one without a second thought. A story-rich, 3-bedroom pool villa for rent in Karjat, it has an organic farm that lets you enjoy an authentic Farm-to-Table experience. When here, you will have a tough time choosing between activities. Milking the resident cows? Have piping hot bhajiyas in the middle of the stream right next to the home? Reading as you sit cross-legged on the iconic swing on the porch? Spotting birds and stars? An afternoon dip in the pool? Bonfire nights? Or simply marvelling at all the artefacts in the home? (Psst: You could do them all!)
Know more about SanvinaFarm.
Bloomingdale, Nashik
Surrounded by an orchard, this 3-bedroom private pool villa in Nashik, has a flowing river on one side and an azure pool under a green canopy on the other. An elderly-friendly home near Mumbai and Gujarat, it gives out the much-needed Christmas warmth so we’d suggest you pick your favourite people when going there. The outdoor deck in the living room overlooks the seasonal river – a perfect place to soak in breathtaking views. Have delicious home-cooked meals in the gazebo that is right next to the pool.
Know more about Bloomingdale.
Solitude Maison, Raigad
If you like a classic Christmas celebration, we can’t recommend this home enough! If you’re looking for the best Christmas getaways near Mumbai and Pune, and love your feast, this home is a haven. Enjoy a hearty Christmas meal, courtesy the homeowner, who prepares scrumptious food including Goan, South Indian, Middle-Eastern and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Located on a hilltop with 180-degree views of the valley in the middle of a forest, this 2-bedroom homestay has traditional brickwork, wood and cane furnishings that is reminiscent of English homes. Surrounded by a 5-acre organic mango plantation, an in-house kitchen garden, scenic views and acres of forest, you might spot interesting wildlife while here.
Know more about Solitude Maison.
Villa Vino, Nashik
If your idea of a Christmas escape includes a quiet stay near a river and walking through a beautiful vineyard (with some wine, of course), then this 3-bedroom pet-friendly villa near Sula Vineyards is the place to be. With stunning views of the Godavari river, the massive lounge, movie projector, and indoor activities makes this safe and sanitised villa scream ‘holiday’. Chill with your gang, as you all gather in the bunker lounge that’s built like a wine cellar. Enjoy scrumptious home-cooked Nashik-style meals or a BBQ night under the stars as you catch up on stories and more…
If you’re the outdoorsy kind, there are various activities around the property to explore – boating, cycling and more.
Know more about Villa Vino.
Inverlochy, Lonavala
This one’s a home that exudes vibrancy from the moment you step in. A private villa near Lonavala, it is embellished with patterned tiles, kitschy wall art and colourful upholstery reminiscent of old-style Parsi homes. If you’re travelling with kids, the loft here is perfect for them to huddle up and read some good old Christmas tales.
Compete in a game of Table Tennis or challenge your group to some indoor games. Take your kids on a Christmas hike as you work up an appetite, and request the caretaker to whip up some authentic home-cooked meals. We recommend having the aloo and chane ki sabzi and gavran mutton curry! As cold sets in, enjoy a night of stargazing and bonfire in the outdoor fireplace.
Know more about Inverlochy.
Odeon, Khandala
A heritage vacation home designed using art-deco architecture, this 4-bedroom private pool vacation home is spread across a 2-acre private forest in Khandala. Have delectable lunch on the lawns in this private estate that has chic interiors, which makes a stylish celebration possible. Indulge in a game of table tennis or have a laid-back evening on the swing in the sprawling verandah. If you want to step out, a walk through the 2-acre estate will take you through a canopy of forested trees, terraced gardens and jamun and jackfruit trees.
Know more about Odeon.
(Are you the last-minute planner? Take a look at the perfect Christmas and NYE Getaways near Mumbai and Pune.)
