After what felt like a zillion years (1 & ½ years), I finally had the chance to go on a weekend getaway to Zoa Retreat, a beautiful tropical resort tucked away near Pune in the peaceful Maval region. My brother recommended this spot, and when our neighbor visited and couldn’t stop raving about it, we knew it was the perfect place for a staycation.

Even though we originally planned to visit during the rainy season, I couldn’t wait any longer to escape reality and relax. Thankfully, my husband sensed my need for a break and without hesitation, we booked our stay for the upcoming weekend.

With my family by my side, we had an amazing time at Zoa Retreat. My parents were able to unwind and recharge, and I couldn’t have asked for a better weekend getaway.

Our staycation at Zoa Retreat was an unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of luxury and nature that left us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

With its tropical setting and serene environment, it’s the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate.

Exploring Zoa Retreat

Upon arriving at Zoa Retreat, I was immediately struck by the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. The resort is nestled in the heart of nature, making it the ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful escape.

The place was well-maintained with vibrant greenery that put a smile on all our faces. I couldn’t resist plucking a ripe mango from the tree – it was delicious and organic!

And at night, the resort looked absolutely stunning with its sparkling lights. The tranquil surroundings and the nighttime view of the mountains and village were truly delightful.

The Lily Cottages

I’m so glad we booked just 2 days ago and were able to snag a Lily cottage! I really wanted to stay in a cottage, so it worked out perfectly. The rooms are named after different flowers, which I find really cool and interesting.

The Lily Cottages, where I stayed, were spacious and well-appointed, with each cottage featuring its own private garden. Waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of leaves was a truly magical experience.

In the evening, we love chilling out on the grass and relax. And at night, we gather by the entrance area and have gup-shup.

The rooms at Zoa Retreat are equipped with all the modern amenities one could need for a comfortable stay. From cozy beds and clean bathrooms to a minibar and tea/coffee maker, the cottages are designed to cater to every need of the guests.

Dining- 4 meals

One of the highlights of my stay was the sumptuous meals served at the resort. With four meals- (lunch, high-tea, dinner & breakfast) included in the package, I was able to indulge in a variety of delicious dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

If you ever run into any dining issues, feel free to reach out to the helpful receptionist staff. For example, my brother really wanted some Manchurian soup for lunch, but it wasn’t on the menu. Thankfully, he spoke to the receptionist and the problem was quickly resolved.

On a slightly disappointing note, they don’t offer fruits or juices in the morning. Hopefully this is something they can consider adding in the future!

Relaxing by the Pool

After a day of exploring the surrounding nature trails and scenic viewpoints, I found myself unwinding by the resort’s inviting swimming pool.

The cool, crystal-clear water was the perfect antidote to the warm afternoon sun, and I spent many relaxing hours lounging by the poolside.

Nature and Luxury Combined

What truly sets Zoa Retreat apart is its seamless blend of nature and luxury. The resort is designed in such a way that it integrates harmoniously with its surroundings, allowing guests to connect with nature while still enjoying the comforts of a luxurious stay.

Charges

The room rates can be different from time to time. We originally reserved 3 Lily cottages for Rs 10000 each, which included 4 meals, but after asking for a discount, we got it at Rs 8000 per room instead.

My advice to Zoa Retreat

Here are some suggestions to make the stay even better and more memorable:

• How about offering a refreshing welcome drink upon arrival? It’s a nice touch that can really set the tone for a great stay.
• We did notice that a few basic amenities were missing in our room initially, but the staff quickly provided them when we asked. It would be even better if these essentials were already in the room before guests arrive.
• The dining staff is lovely, but it would be great to have a more varied menu. For example, being able to order soups would be a nice addition.
• It was a bit disappointing to find that there were no fruits or juices available in the morning. Including these options would really enhance the breakfast experience.
• Also, having an activity area where guests can enjoy games like carom-board, chess, and ludo would be a fun addition to the stay. It’s always nice to have some leisure activities to enjoy during down time.

In conclusion, my staycation at Zoa Retreat was a truly memorable experience. From the beautiful Lily Cottages and delicious meals to the relaxing poolside atmosphere, it was a pleasant family getaway. The staff are very helpful and courteous. Only few things are missing, which I believe they can manage them soon.

If you’re looking for a tranquil escape near Pune, I highly recommend booking a stay at Zoa Retreat. Disconnect from the chaos of city life and reconnect with nature in this tropical paradise.

After my visit, I shared my experience with my friend and this weekend she is visiting with her friends.