The Riverstone Agro Farm

The rooms were clean and nicely set up, and the walking paths through the fruit orchards make it easy to slow down and enjoy the place. After a morning trek or a stroll on the botanical trails, a soak feels like a real treat on a farm. The Riverstone Agro Farm in Panvel is tucked beneath the Matheran hills, with a seasonal river along its edge and green views all around. It has a rustic farm feel alongside modern boutique comfort, and makes for a refreshing break without the five-hour drive from Mumbai.

Tattva’s five-elements menu, Prithvi, Vayu, Jal, Agni and Aakash, was creatively put together. The garlic sponge, cheese foam, lime leather and onion ash were memorable, and most of the ingredients came from the farm. With just 18 seats at one community table, the supper club felt intimate and immersive. I went to the curated fine dining event by Ashima & Chef Mayank Ladwal at The Riverstone Agro Farm Resort, Panvel. The resort is beautiful, surrounded by greenery, with premium rooms that suit a nature break or weekend away. Loved the experience, and I can’t wait for the next Tattva supper club. I’ll be back.

Mama gave us a really informative tour of the farm, pointing out the vegetables and plants grown there. He was friendly and helpful throughout, and took great care of the guests. The grounds are spacious and well kept, with a pond on the property. Releasing the Akash Kandil at night was a lovely finishing touch to our stay. I was here with my wife and son on 13th and 14th December. Our room was very spacious, clean and well maintained. The food was excellent too. They make a special effort with homegrown, pesticide-free vegetables for vegetarian meals, and they tasted great. The non-veg food was also very good, with chicken at lunch and mutton at dinner, plus a good variety.

Mama seemed to be everywhere, helping us settle in, serving food, showing us around and sharing anecdotes and life lessons. The owner, Mr. Rakesh, also visits the property. Hearing about his journey in creating the place was inspiring. His farmhouse is on the grounds too. Speakers blend into the surroundings, playing soothing bhajans during the day and light music in the evening. It’s a quick nature break from Mumbai, with clean, beautifully finished rooms and a well-kept, well-lit estate. Some rooms have a private outdoor bathtub and shower under the open sky. Meals are a set menu with a veg or non-veg choice; the vegetables and rice are from the farm. There are flower plantations, fruit trees including banana and star fruit, a star-gazing deck, an artificial lake and tidy walkways. We left feeling refreshed and with lovely memories.