A Blissful Weekend At La Estoria, Goa - IHCL SeleQtions

How Best To Spend A  Weekend At La Estoria,  Goa - IHCL SeleQtions - An Itinerary

By Sharmila Chand

Goa, a slice of paradise on India’s western coast, is where the rhythm of the waves meets the pulse of life, creating a symphony of sun and seas. Its rich heritage is a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine and culture.

La Estoria - a Portuguese phrase that translates to 'The Story' - captures the timeless allure of Goan-Portuguese design and the warmth of contemporary elegance.

I visited the stunning hotel recently and here are the distinguishing factors that makes it remarkable.

I have also shared an itinerary towards the end of the feature which will give you a glimpse of what to experience.

USP of the Hotel

#  Do not miss High  Tea  - it comprises of the blend of tea as per your preference and a Charlie with  delectable sweet nothings that transports you to an ideal world of dreams. On request, can be organised by the pool side or in your room balcony overlooking the pool. Should you wish to have your high tea in the restaurant ,that is also an option.

# Special Chair at the Lobby Entrance  : For the elderly and to add to the comfort of those who seek, the grand entrance to the lobby has a mechanical chair which takes you up the flight of stairs. It is comfortable, unique and a very thoughtful initiative.

#Activities for the little ones :  There are activities planned with n the premises for the guest children like pottery making, drawing and painting and hair braiding while the parents or the elders of the family would enjoy activities like sip and paint, tie and dye etc. these workshops are conducted on a weekly basis.

# Mindful eating - meals as conducted by the Chef. This includes pairing of meals, the story of the produce, the spices and how it impacts the season.

Rooms Design

The rooms are an enchanting ode to Goa’s rich cultural heritage. Inspired by the traditional Goff and Tolgadi dance forms, these spaces weave a delicate balance between tradition and modernity and mirrors the graceful plaiting of the Goff, a symbol of Goa’s historic assimilation of diverse cultures over centuries.

Distinctive latticed windows, bright and patterned “azulejo” tiles sprawl across the floor and walls add a burst of colour, while the classic wooden and beautifully upholstered furniture creates a sense of timelessness. A map of Goa, carefully crafted, adds a sense of place—a gentle reminder that you’re in the heart of one of the world’s most beloved coastal destinations. Each of our 122 rooms, spread across four blocks, features a private balcony that invites you to step outside and savour views of this quaint destination.

The Stunning Pool & The Spa

The sparkling open swimming pool is a sunlit oasis, framed by swaying palms and soft loungers that invite you to do nothing but relax. Dappled with the golden glow of the Goan sun, the outdoor pool offers a serene escape that feels like a dream.

With two beautifully designed therapy rooms at the Spa Tattva, invites you to indulge in a world of soothing aromas, gentle music and expert hands. Whether it’s a revitalising massage or a calming facial, the spa offers a retreat within a retreat—a quiet place where the mind rests, the body heals, and the soul feels truly nourished.

Dining At La Estoria  Trattoria, fondly known as ‘Tratts,’ has been a cherished landmark for authentic Italian cuisine since 1981. This renowned restaurant showcases an eclectic menu that combines both new and timeless favorites, inviting you to savor the rich flavors of Italian and Global Cuisine. Step into Canterbury, and you’re instantly transported to a place where time slows down, and the world outside feels miles away. This charming bar is the perfect spot to unwind, with its cosy interiors, dim lighting and an inviting ambience that speaks of old-Goan charm.

To Conclude

Goa is more than a destination; it’s a sun-kissed symphony of experiences that linger. At La Estoria, Goa - IHCL SeleQtions, the allure of Goa is at your doorstep, inviting you to explore a world where every day feels like a celebration of life. From golden beaches and azure waters to vibrant markets and serene churches, immerse yourself in the magic of this enchanting destination all with in walking distance.

Itinerary

I recommend a perfect itinerary for a joyful weekend as follows - 

Day 1 : check in at 1400 hrs

Lunch at Trattoria followed by Siesta

4 pm : Visit to Reis Magos Fort. Get back for high tea  .

Then venture out to Sinquerim beach and take a break for sundowner followed by dinner.

Following are great options :

# Sundowner at SFX followed by dinner at Paper Moon Italian Cuisine. Both at Taj Fort Aguada – 5 minutes from La Estoria.

#Sundowner at The Sunset Deck followed by dinner at the Banyan Tree – Thai Cuisine. Both at Taj Holiday Village – 5 minutes from La Estoria.

Other sundowner or dinner options are : Anar in Anjuna, Hosa in Siolim, Avo’s kitchen, Bomras, Edible Archives, Izumi, Jamun, Vinayak in Assagao, Grumps, Ping’s, Kismoor in Salgolda, Kikies by the Beach, Thalassa, Farzi, Jolene etc which are approx. 30 to 45 minutes away.

Day 2 :

Breakfast.

# Trip to Aguada Jail with a tour of the Jail premises and the history. Conducted Tours are available at the hotel. 

Back to resort for lunch followed by the famous Goan siesta.

# High Tea by the poolside and a little swim.

# Get ready and head out for dinner to any of the restaurants mentioned above.
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Day 3.
Breakfast

Walking trip to the local market for Goa trinkets and or watersports on Sinquerim beach (all within walking distance)

Early lunch

Check Out

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