Beyond by Sula Resort, Nashik: An Honest Review

Nashik in Maharashtra is an ancient city on the banks of river Godavari. Three hours away from Mumbai, it is best known for the vineyards that grow in abundance due to its temperate climate. On a recent trip to Maharashtra, we enjoyed a weekend getaway at Sula Vineyards, Nashik. We stayed at the Sky Villa at the Beyond by Sula Resort, and this is a dedicated review. The first post in the series was about things we did in the area.

The stunning Sky Villa at Beyond by Sula Resort

Beyond By Sula Resort:

Perched on the bank of the Ganga Dhar Dam in the Godavari Reservoir, amidst the rolling Gangapur Hills; Beyond by Sula Resort had an unbeatable location. This lavish property was a five km rough-road drive from Sula Vineyards. There were seven lake-facing rooms, and a villa with three bedrooms. The property had an all-day dining hall, two pools, and lovely pathways that beg exploration. A quaint boat ride was also on offer.

Fancy a walk along the manicured lawns of the resort?

We booked the luxurious Sky Villa for two nights. The three bedrooms with a couple extra beds were sufficient for eight adults and one child. The rooms were spacious and tastefully decorated. The entire property was beautiful with a minimalist, Scandinavian aesthetic. Manicured lawns added to the beauty.

Spacious bedrooms

The infinity pool had a uniform depth of 4 feet and offered stunning views of the lake and hills in the distance. Mid-day was the best time to take a dip in the cold water. The pool-side deck was equipped with seating, hammock and swing, perfect for lazing and observing the stunning sunset.

Gorgeous sunset from the poolside deck

The living area on the first floor was fully equipped for entertainment, with a pool table, carom board, and a good sound system. There was a kitchen and small living area downstairs. The Sky Villa offered a butler service.

There was plenty of entertainment available

The villa was designed for a stay-in vacation, with an extensive wine list (most of which we went through) and fantastic amenities. However, the food offered on the premises was below average, and the service left much to be desired. We ate two lunches, two breakfasts and a dinner at the multi-cuisine café. The best thing was dal chawal (rice and lentils) made on special request as it wasn’t on the menu. The Italian and continental options were disappointing as were the Indian non-vegetarian tandoori dishes. The buffet style breakfasts were included in the tariff and were passable at best.

An extensive wine list is offered to guests

The staff including butlers, wait staff at the restaurant, housekeeping etc. all had a sweet disposition and were very willing to fulfil demands. However, they seriously lacked the polish that is expected from a world-class luxury property. Despite the expensive price point, the service was rudimentary. It was noticeable in the small things. A specific order of penne pasta took 45 minutes to arrive and it contained spaghetti instead of penne. The turn-down service of the bedding wasn’t promptly done. Wine orders would have to be placed multiple times before arrival. These experiences may not bother many people, but having travelled extensively in India and abroad, they bothered me. The resort needs to pull up its socks to compete on the level of luxury they advertise for.

Amazing scenery, but average food and lacklustre service!

There were no separate provisions for my baby’s nanny who was travelling with us, except for food from the staff kitchen. I’d expected bugs on the property due to the abundant greenery, but I was unhappy with the cockroaches in the bathrooms!

Despite teething problems, the villa is ideal for family vacations as well as holidays with small groups of friends. It is pricey but very beautiful. By improving their culinary options and service, they will achieve greater renown.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Address: Gat 36/2, Govardhan, Gangapur-Savargaon Road, Nashik

Price (Sky Villa): Sunday- Thursday: INR 30,000 per night

                             Friday- Saturday: INR 35,000 per night

                             Prime Days: INR 45,000 per night

                             Christmas and New Year: INR 50,000 per night

                             Extra person: INR 2,500 per night

                             Extra person on prime days: INR 3,500 per night

Book by clicking here.

Sky Villa at Beyond by Sula Resort Rating: 4/5