A Soulful South Goa Day Trip: From Sun-Kissed Shores to Flavourful Feasts

As the early morning sun filtered through the palm trees, we arrived at Chutney – All Day Dining, nestled inside a refined resort setting. The restaurant had a calm, almost meditative vibe — elegant décor, high ceilings, and a touch of tropical freshness.

What we loved about the breakfast:

• Fluffy idlis and crisp medu vadas, fresh from the steamer and fryer, served with coconut and tomato chutneys

• Golden dosas with a comforting potato filling, paired with hot sambar

• Western options like cheese omelets, buttery croissants, and granola with yogurt

• Tropical fruits like papaya, watermelon, and pineapple

• Most importantly, Goan-style tea — strong, hot, and smooth

Sitting by the window, sipping tea and watching the morning light dance across the floor was the perfect start to what promised to be an enriching day.

We stopped at a giant Buddha statue, peacefully seated amid nature — either near Mulem another serene location. While it wasn’t a major tourist stop, it was exactly what we needed — a peaceful interlude to pause, breathe, and reflect.

• The statue radiated calm

• Surrounded by landscaped gardens or forest-like terrain

• It reminded us of how quiet, spiritual moments are as essential to travel as the big sights

As we walked through the moss-covered gates, time seemed to rewind. Inside the fort:

• Crumbling walls spoke of battles fought centuries ago

• A small church sat silently in the center, still visited by locals

• From the edge, the view of the sea meeting the cliffs was nothing short of cinematic

A cool breeze carried the scent of salt and wildflowers as we sat quietly, soaking in the grandeur of nature and history intertwined.

Hunger led us to Seagull, the signature all-day dining restaurant at Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia. Located just a few steps from Cavelossim Beach, this place is well-known for its expansive buffet and peaceful setting.

The restaurant had a laid-back luxury feel:

• Open seating near the pool

• Live cooking stations

• Soothing instrumental music in the background

🍤 Our lunch favorites included:

• Prawn curry with rice

• Fish Rava Fry – crispy outside, tender inside

• Paneer masala

• Fresh salads, breads, fruits and tropical juices

• And a sweet finish with dry milk cake and coffee cheese mousse

The service was warm and attentive, the portions generous, and the flavors distinctly Goan — aromatic, layered, and satisfying.

A short drive later brought us to Sernabatim Beach, a hidden gem tucked between Benaulim and Colva. This beach was even quieter — almost private.

• No shops. No crowds. Just clean sand and wide open sky.

• We found a shaded spot under a lone palm and lay there, listening to the waves.

• It was one of those rare moments where doing nothing felt absolutely perfect.

Stop #4: Benaulim Beach – Beauty in Simplicity

After leaving Sernabatim, we headed north toward Benaulim Beach — a less crowded, more local favorite. It was evening, and the sun cast a golden hue on the soft sands.

There were no blaring speakers or commercial water sports here. Just:

• Fishermen hauling in their catch

• Children playing by the waves

• A few shacks serving cold drinks and fresh coconut water

We took off our shoes, walked along the shoreline, and let the warm water wash away our stress.

Sunset Drive & Final Stop: Dinner at Vida

As twilight began to paint the skies in orange and purple, we made our way to our final destination — Vida.

This charming bistro-style restaurant was the perfect way to end our trip. Intimate, earthy, and glowing with fairy lights, it had an effortlessly romantic air.

🦀 What we ordered:

• Cheese Corn Balls

• Kingfish Masala with sautéed vegetables

• Vegetable Birayani & Veg White Sauce Pasta

• Refreshing Red Sangria and Strawberry Daiquiri