Brightlands Holiday Resort - Among the best in Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar in the rains is a treat, and the location of Brightland overlooking the valley makes it even more memorable. Brightland is a superb property, among the best resorts in Mahabaleshwar. Well maintained lawns, nice pool and lots of place within the resort to roam around. 

Food is good and the spa is also really worth trying, though quite expensive. We went in off season so there was no crowd, but I have a feeling when occupancy is high, the restaurant must be getting quite cramped. Service was good and we didn't have any problems through the stay. 

One problem I had was that the room was exceptionally small considering the price you pay for the stay, but it was well equipped. The other problem was that although the valley view was superb, if you were to look below eye level, there was quite a lot of muck visible at the back of the hotel!

Riverview Chiplun - Beautiful resort and peaceful stay

We visited Chipun in the rains, completely off season and there was hardly anyone else at the resort. That contributed, I think, to our wonderful experience. I remember visiting this resort few years ago on a stopover when it was owned by the Taj group. We had had a luxurious stay then. Thankfully the resort seems to have maintained the quality and service standards although the ownership has passed hands.

The rooms are very spacious, well decorated. The one we opted for overlooked the Vashishthi river. You could actually see trains running on the Konkan railway disappear into a tunnel. It was a beautiful sight. The resort has a garden at the far end from where the view is simply superb. You can sit here for ages.

Since there is not too much to do around in Chiplun the best thing to do is relax. We went in monsoon and rains in Chiplun can get really heavy. But the resort has good games, the food is also quite good (though if you have to eat it for 2-3 days, it can get boring). Service is good, though some reminders were needed at times. We also tried the spa. It was ok but a bit expensive.

For those interested, the Parshuram temple is walking distance from the resort. We used to be more interested in the food stalls along the temple that serve and sell authentic Maharashtrian delicacies including pickles, thalipeeth, etc.