Meliora Retreat

The balcony looks out onto beautiful lush greenery, and room service was quick and responsible. Our rooms were clean and well maintained. We booked over the phone during the holiday season, so the price was a bit high, but manageable. Do try their tea.

We felt completely safe during our rainy-season stay, and the caretakers even helped us park our bikes securely. From the balconies, the thick green trees across the valley made a beautiful view for anyone who loves nature. The rooms were cozy and clean, with art that suited the peaceful atmosphere. Fresh, tasty breakfast gave the stay a warm, homely feel. I’d give it 9/10.

The rooms and washrooms were clean and well kept, the staff were friendly and accommodating, and the host responded quickly. The location is convenient, right by the road and close to both Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, with lovely views from the rooms. The setup feels more like a boutique lodge with several rooms than a typical Airbnb. The decor matches the photos, but the rooms seemed smaller in person, and both the rooms and balconies may feel compact. Road-facing rooms might get traffic noise. I enjoyed the stay thanks to the cleanliness and staff, but the nightly price felt steep compared with similar nearby hotels and resorts. A slight price drop would make it feel more worthwhile.

The food was the highlight of our stay. The chef was skilled, and after a day of sightseeing it was great to have a good meal without going back out to crowded restaurants. Service and attention were great too, and the common dining area has board games and a karaoke system for entertainment. This homestay is conveniently located at Metgutad, about halfway between Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar. The rooms are tastefully decorated and stayed warm on winter nights, so we didn’t need heaters. We had elderly people with us, and I’d suggest booking only the top rooms, which are a few steps above road level. The other rooms are down two flights of stairs, with another two flights to the dining area, which could be difficult for them. Overall, a great experience and I’d highly recommend it.