Recently we had the privilege of taking a short vacation to Goa to escape the worst of the Mumbai monsoons. Rosetta Hospitality has set up a new luxury property called Elements by Rosetta Varca Goa in South Goa and we spent a leisurely weekend exploring its offerings. The hotel is about two kilometres from Varca Beach and is tucked away in a quaint lane surrounded by lush vegetation. Our drive to the hotel (and sightseeing thereafter) went through serene scenic routes passing quiet settlements, chapels, gardens and natural water bodies. This is the kind of picturesque paradise that is often associated with South Goa.
Photo Credit: Toshita Sahni
We checked into our room on the first floor and the first thing we noticed was how spacious it was! Some non-resort properties can have quite cramped rooms which spoil the holiday mood, but you won’t face such a problem here. The decor had a minimalist style with brown and white accents. The room was well equipped with standard fittings and amenities. There was a writing desk where we managed to get some work done despite the tempting view of the pool below.
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
We were told that other rooms also have bathtubs and outdoor jacuzzis. Those who don’t want to go swimming can also relax at the poolside Collins Bar, spa or gym. Those traveling with kids should know that there is a dedicated children’s play area on the property as well as a family activity center called Rosetta Engage. Jai Sridhar, joint managing director of Rosetta Hospitality, says, “We are confident that our new property will appeal to travelers who value quality and sophistication without compromising on affordability.” He also clarifies that the new hotel aims to “bring Rosetta Hospitality to Goa, and not the other way around.”
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
The hotel has a variety of spaces for different occasions: a grand ballroom of 4000 sq ft, an outdoor lawn of 5000 sq ft and a spacious board room for conferences and meetings. Errol Fernandes, Chairman and Managing Director of Rosetta Hospitality, said the hotel aims to attract a diverse clientele including corporate groups, wedding functions and leisure travellers.
Photo Credit: Toshita Sahni
The pool and the lawn adjoining it form the centre of the property – the accommodation wing (currently having a total of 74 rooms) and the reception building are located on its four sides. The main building, which also houses the restaurant – Cucina Rosetta – is therefore only a short walk from most rooms. We enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast buffet at the main restaurant every day of our visit. It was colourful and well arranged. Along with South Indian and English breakfast staples, the restaurant also featured delicious North Indian food. However, we would have liked to have more local Goan dishes as part of the buffet. There were live counters for dosas, eggs, waffles, pancakes and more – most of which could be easily customised on request
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
We also enjoyed Cucina Rosetta’s lunch and dinner dishes through the buffet meals. We particularly liked the North Indian dishes, including Rajasthani delicacies. The kebabs and tikkas, as well as the classic gravies, were delicious and satisfying. While you can also enjoy their Pan-Asian and Italian cuisine, don’t miss the chance to taste some Goan food when you’re here. Apart from favorites like vindaloo, xacuti, and cladine, the a la carte menu also includes a set “Goan Dining Experience” (with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options). We paired our meals with great classic cocktails, made with premium spirits, including local drinks like feni. Our many meals made us realize that Elements by Rosetta manages to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, and strives to provide options that will please different categories of travelers.
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
Elements by Rosetta Varka Goa made us feel comfortable and at ease during our short trip to South Goa. If you are looking for a reliable option for your next vacation or destination event, consider this cozy new hotel.
Location: Survey No. 94, 3-H, Langotem Road, Varca, Salcete, Goa.
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
Photo Credit: Elements by Rosetta
Photo Credit: Toshita Sahni