Once in a while, you end up staying in a place so sublime that it not just lives up, but exceeds the high expectations set by various pictures and rave reviews -- that was Secret Garden. Derrick and Helene’s home has been one of the loveliest places I’ve stayed in. The 19th century property has been restored carefully and lovingly -- every single item you see there looks as if it had been chosen with care. Our blue Lennox room had so much character and charm -- from the four-poster bed to the quaint old lamp and the little knick knacks arranged artistically. The garden seemed to be a magical place, with its luxuriant, tropical trees and plants, and little touches of whimsy everywhere. I enjoyed my swim in the pool, looking at the trees swaying in the monsoon breeze (while…
Have reviewed before. Second visit this time with husband and two teen boys. Monopoly, the pool and the three dogs did it for them. Its an old house n it being just premonsoon there were a few bug problems. The a. In one room wasn’t cooling and Derrick gave us use of the other free. Very helpful n inclusive home, with jane taking care in Helene’s absence (she was visiting the UK). Enough board games, books, snacks to spend yr time.
We had an incredible stay at The Secret Garden. Our room was just beautiful with AC, rain shower and extra comfy bed. The setting is truly an oasis with lush gardens, gorgeous pool and quiet surroundings. The food was amazing!! H makes the best breakfasts every morning with freshly baked bread, homemade jams and unbelievable omelets plus the best potatoes you will ever have! You will love your stay here. Close to the beach, restaurants and shops. Can't wait to go back!
Great place. Quite, lush green and beautiful. Great hosts and a very very clean place. Very safe for a family too. Highly recommend for a relaxing vacation. nice village surroundings. I would definitely come back.
“It's a very beautiful home, very comfortable to stay, if you want to wind down, chill , relax... This is the place. Serenity all around. The host, Helene is very cool, helping & is kind enough to accommodate early check in and late check out requests :) . It is truly an amazing experience. Last but not the least, breakfast here is delicious. ”
Fantastic home and hosts. We stayed in their largest room: Beautiful, clean and utterly charming. You won't want to leave! Have to mention the lovely dogs, comfortable bed, and the most delicious omelette we've ever eaten. Thank you so much for having us in your home.
The Secret Garden is a very special place, quite magical. From the moment you enter you know your stay will be wonderful. Me and my husband stayed in the Malibar room but the other two bedrooms were equally beautiful in their own way. Our bed was dreamily comfortable, and the whole room and bathroom a delight to be in. Everywhere you look, both inside and out there are special touches, everything to make your stay relaxing and enjoyable. We loved the pool and garden and seeing the amazing butterflies and birds. Helene is a beautiful and talented host and her cooking is to die for! She prepared our breakfasts which really were fit for royalty. We stayed for three nights and I wish it could have been longer, I just didn’t want to leave and hope we can return again one day
This is one place which will remain etched in my mind forever! Me and my wife chose this homestay to celebrate our first wedding anniversary and it proved to be a 100% perfect choice! The great gestures and a true sample of excellent hospitality started right from the enquiry email. Host Helene is one of a kind! She was as excited as us! She arranged everything for us right from decorating our room, booking a table in nearby restaurant to ordering a cake! And yes what a delicious breakfast! Without doubt one of the favorite homestays I stayed in my life! Thank you Helene and Derrick for everything and making our 1st anniversary truly memorable.Cheers!
Helene and Derrick have really made this place an amazing getaway. The attention to detail in the decor of the rooms shows so much love and care for the home, which is a traditional Goan-style home revamped with all the luxury details. The pool and garden are an amazing retreat, and the neighborhood is very quiet, except for some noise from the services at a nearby church. Do bring earplugs if you get disturbed. I'm a light sleeper, so living and traveling in India is sometimes rough, but good earplugs were mostly sufficient. The breakfasts that Helene makes have a different main course each day. I'd go back only to have the sourdough pancakes and the freshly-baked bread again! Many of the fruits and the coconuts are harvested on site in the garden. On top of having an…
This place is just awesome! I am in love with every corner of this place! I love the way the bedrooms are done up so very beautifully and even the bathrooms are facinating, forever spic a span clean. The pool is my favourite I think. And the dinning set up is classy. The food is homemade and mouthwatering. The entire experince is so personalised as Helene (the host) ensures to make your stay is the most cherished and memorable. This is truely a home away from home, and trust me its a 7 star for me!!!
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