If we think of Goa, we directly see ourselves at those pristine beaches in broad daylight, resting at a shack with a beer in our hand - that's how life is, isn't it? That's how Goa vacations are supposed to be! But, little do we know about how vast this small state is, when we thoroughly set out to explore.
Goa has many, many faces. From it's golden beaches to bustling bazaars, from it's opulent churches to tranquil resorts, this state has something for all kinds and all ages. But, unlike a normal vacation, our visit to Goa this time was all about relishing a unique experience. This time, we wanted to explore those tiny quaint villages in South Goa which are still hidden behind the limelight and dazzle of the North.
If you have been to Goa, you should be aware that this state is well known for it's hidden gems. One such place in South Goa is called 'Loutolim'.
Loutolim is a tiny village in South just around 40mins ride from Vasco and about 30kms from the capital, Panaji. Once you search about Loutolim, you will come across its finest Goan architecture and historical houses. One of the most famous and eye catching houses in Loutolim is the iconic 'Figueiredo House'.
The Figueiredo House is a legendary mansion which stands in pride not just for South Goa, but for entire India. Let us take you back to the time when the Portuguese invaded India. The Figueiredo Mansion was built in the year 1590 (80 years after the Portuguese came to Goa). Yes, you read that right! Standing steady with pride and honour for last 430 years, when this mansion was built, this world was quite a different place. For example - Emperor Akbar had just invaded India, forget about discovery of gravity, Sir Issac Newton wasn't even born. William Shakespeare had just begun writing his poems and plays, and the British was far, far away from setting their first colony in India. It's much older than we could ever imagine.
We took a cab from Madgaon station to reach this place. As soon as we uttered Loutolim to the driver, he himself asked if we are going to see The Figueiredo House? With a smile, I answered, Yes! But, we are going to stay there.
The house is located in the middle of a long stretch of road with paddy fields on the opposite side. All you would see is greenery and calmness of the village. As we entered into the gates of the mansion, it's pistachio green colored walls with brownish-red roof welcomed us with wide stairs case taking us directly inside the mansion.
It was like a throwback into that time, and all we could imagine was Figueiredo's power and influence over the centuries. The house is owned by the Figueiredo family, and till date they stay in the house reliving the stories of the past and rejoicing it's grandeur.
On the left, we saw a huge hall with a shimmering chandelier, porcelain plates hanging on the wall, vintage wooden chairs and tables with carvings on them. As we stepped in, the warm color of the room with yellow and brown colored Portuguese styled tiles grabbed our attention. The entire hall was like a movie set. For a moment, we felt we belong to a royal family and taking a royal walk.
The Figueiredo family had initially opened 5 rooms for it's guests which dates back to the year 1590. They have further planned to open a few more for the guests with a family pool as well.
The rooms in the mansion are as luxurious as one may need with the real feel of vintage decor of the stature of Figueiredo's. And they are all named after the illustrious women of the house. The ‘Georgina’ and ‘Elsa’ rooms have twin beds, while ‘Amalia’ has a double. The Family Suite combines two rooms (Especiosa and Graça).
They rooms large, fully furnished, well air-conditioned, spacious, and has a bathroom equipped with all the modern amenities. The large colonial bed would make sure you sleep comfortably and get up stress free in the morning!
There is art in each and every corner of this house and as you walk around the house through those corridors, old vases, photo frames, paintings, Chinaware, and even the tiles will grab your attention.
The dining area is one more attraction in the house. The huge dining table awaited us with a scrumptious breakfast, and a shining Belgian Chandelier hanging over the table as we proceeded towards relishing a joyful breakfast. Eggs, local breads, fruits, juice, cornflakes milk, you name it. Everything was served to perfection on rich crockery plates. The home-stay specializes in rich Goan and Portuguese cuisine. We tried their chicken soup, rice and prawns, pork vindaloo, and caramelized banana with ice-cream and the feeling was nothing less than heavenly.
Maria de Lourdes Figueiredo de Albuquerque along with her daughter-in-law Fatima, and Pedro, who is Fatima's son live in this mansion. And all the meals that are cooked by the staff here is guided, instructed and prepared under the supervision of Fatima - who manages the entire house, and is a lovely lady to interact with!
The dining area hosts high-tea and formal dinners as well! The windows open to paddy fields outside on the opposite side of the road.
There is ample of lobby area, open area, and a little inside-courtyard where you can enjoy the tea made by their lovely staff with some cookies, and may be read a book. They also have a collection of books in a library of their own.
The Museum
The other half of the house is actually a museum which is open for all, and we genuinely recommend you to visit it even if you are not staying at The Figueiredo's house.
The Figueiredo family has contributed immensely to Goa, with family members who were lawyers, diplomats, ambassadors, members of the Portuguese parliament and of Goa’s legislature.
The museum welcomes you with it's rich antique decor and a garland of interesting history attached to it. We were lucky that Fatima's son, Pedro was our host and guided us through the entire house. You are free to click pictures here while you grab some knowledge and facts about the place.
Every wall, every corner has a story to tell. Every interior here is planned in detail using the first components from across the world. Not just the museum, but several areas of the house has Italian Terracotta tiles, while some have wooden flooring planned for insulation and ventilation. The furniture is made up of first class teak wood from the richest parts of the country, which still preserved with utmost care. You will be amazed to see hand made paintings by Maria de Lourdes Figueiredo de Albuquerque. Some rich dinner sets, and amalgamation of Portuguese culture and Indian art in artifacts.
Our visit to Figueiredo was not only special, but a unique one. What makes such places special is how well they connect with their gusts. Figueiredo house has a rich past, bu it is so loving to see how well they are attached to their roots. Fatima, Pedro, and the entire staff treated us like their own family. They are welcoming and so caring that at the end of day, you would feel attached to this house and this lovely family.
Figueiredo House is hands down the most special and luxurious stay one can experience in South Goa!
