The Gateway Hotel Ambad Nashik is a great choice to stay in the wine capital of India. The luxury here is perfectly blended with minimalistic elegance.
Efforts to portray the Maratha heritage right from the entrance to the rooms are visible. You will notice the Jharokhas (shape) at the entrance and real ones on the first floor, above reception. For all those who are clueless about what Jharokha means, it was a kind of enclosed balcony where women could see the evens/functions outside without being seen themselves. These Jharokhas were culturally common during the Maratha empire.
Of course, the hotel will also keep reminding you that you are in the 'wine capital of India'. The chandelier in the reception area represents the wine barrels. The cushions are wine (red and sparkling) in color. The carpet is designed in a way to give a look as if the red wine has been spilled over it.
I have three words for the room - Spacious, Modish and Minimalistic. Yes, the suite is minimalistic yet so fashionable in its own way. And the two open balconies (rather Jharokhas) outside the room will surely win your heart. You get an appealing city view from there.
The exteriors of the hotel deserve special mention. The property is big and gives special attention to the horticulture. But, what makes it different is the Zen garden. The garden is peaceful with beautiful relaxing music being played. You must visit the garden early in the morning. It is tranquilizing to sit there and contemplate, amidst the luxury.
Amenities
The hotel offers a lot of indoor games and activities like Chess, Carom, Table Tennis, Pool, a small yet thoughtful library, gymnasium, etc.. Outdoor activities include Cricket, Basketball, swimming pool, etc.
You can also enjoy a complimentary steam and Jacuzzi bath for the guests.
Food
There are two restaurants in the hotel - Citrine and Pancharatna. There is a bar 'Solterra' that also serves some bar snacks. The food, by all means, lives up to the standards a foodie like me has.
Citrine - It is open from 7 am to 11 pm. The breakfast is served in this restaurant. The breakfast spread was sumptuous. The ambiance was also likable. And I honestly feel that breakfast is an experience in itself in luxury properties. So, one should definitely spend a good amount of time on the breakfast table. Well, I do.
The cuisine served for lunch is Continental and North Indian. I would suggest opting for Continental as there is an option for authentic Indian food (Pancharatna).
Must try - Chilli pesto paneer tikka, Honey chili potatoes, pizza (any), aloo parantha, and lasagna.
Pancharatna - Being an Indian food lover, authentic Indian restaurants are always my favorites, no matter where I go. Pancharatna was no exception. You must have your dinner here when in Nashik. And if you are a Maharashtrian food lover, this is the place to have your 'meal of the day'. The timings are from 7 pm to 11 pm.
Must try - Shahi Paneer, Baby corn and green peas patty, bhindi bhaji, dal tadka, and ras malai.
Tip - The quantity of the food served is huge. So, watch it when you order.
Conclusion
If you are planning a trip to the wine capital of India, book your stay at The Gateway Hotel to mingle with the Wine and Maratha heritage of the country. Book the 'wine-themed suites' to have a marvelous experience.
