Treehouse Nova: An Immersive Experience in South Goa

As we drove beneath and across the palm-fringed beaches of the Cansaulim, Namrata wondered aloud, “How can people ever work in South Goa?” And it explains the laid-back feel of this serene haven. I, too, had begun to notice the minute dramatic distinctions that separated the South from the North, but I was unaware of the course of events that had led to such division. Then Pifran Fernandes, the owner of Treehouse Nova in Cansaulim, elaborated on the idea. Pifran discussed how South Goa differs from North Goa in a casual talk over a cup of hot ginger tea.

He explained, “That as you move from north to south in Goa, not only the atmosphere but also the lifestyle and accent change. And what motivates this shift has a lot to do with how civilisations in both corners have lived their lives over the previous several millennia. The fishermen’s group, for example, dominates North Goa. In recent years, it has become a party hotspot or the epicentre of hippy culture, yet a big portion of its culture, including food, resonates with fish farmers and their way of life.”

In contrast, rich Goan or Portuguese families have long resided in South Goa. Even though the majority of them have relocated outside of the city, they nevertheless make an effort to keep their homes in good repair. As a result, South Goa has been able to preserve its historic Portuguese buildings, natural beauty, and clean beaches while attracting fewer tourists. The roads are smoother, the air is clearer, and the cuisine is unquestionably more wonderful on this side.

Or perhaps, I believe this because my immersive experiences in South Goa was fueled by Treehouse Nova, a Portuguese-style hotel where guests can enjoy traditional Goan customs with a modern twist.

Treehouse Nova Accommodation

Treehouse Nova is a pet-friendly complex of multicoloured Portuguese-style buildings with Baroque architecture, and attractive entrances and windows. The complex has brightly coloured buildings with arches and Dutch paintings in burnt orange, cadmium yellow, and cerulean blue. I stayed in the first blue building, which has a ground-floor reception and lobby. The lobby space is particularly interesting, featuring an unusual tree-shaped bookcase, a carrom board, a vending machine, and even a foosball table inside its confines.

The lobby’s quirky touches, such as wall murals and lights, are a delight. A small swimming pool and an eating area are located in the blue building close to where I stayed. Whether children or adults, this complex has lots to offer everyone.

Treehouse Nova’s Portuguese Suites are cosy, air-conditioned, and equipped with modern facilities, making them ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families. On the third floor, I stayed in Suite 302, which was charmingly decorated with Dutch tiles and had a sofa/bed, walk-in closet, work desk, in-room vault, mini-fridge cum bar, 32-inch LED satellite TV, tea/coffee maker, mineral water, and complimentary high-speed wifi.

Beautiful artworks cover the walls, draped in delicate tones. The ensuite washroom, on the other hand, lacks a bathtub but is equipped with a lovely mirror sink, shower, and hot and cold running water, as well as other conveniences like a hairdryer. In addition, as a suite guest, you may order a dental and shaving kit, as well as an iron and ironing board.

The Treehouse Nova’s tastefully done junior apartment with a kitchenette is another wonderful option for those looking for an extended stay. For visitors who want to prepare their own meals, the junior suite pantry includes an induction plate, a microwave oven, and necessary utensils.

Dining at Treehouse Nova

Every visitor receives a complimentary breakfast regardless of whether they stay in a suite or a room, and they may also choose from Nova’s all-day A’la carte dining menu. A’la carte is payable but, the complimentary buffet breakfast is served on the ground floor restaurant. Breakfast was brought hot throughout my two-day stay, and the things I picked from the a la carte menu were delectable.

I had a fantastic meal here. The chicken lollipop, Rawa fry prawns, golden fried prawns, Goan fish stew, and a sizzling brownie for dessert are all worth trying.

Room service is available around the clock.

Things To Do Near Treehouse Nova

Whether you’re interested in archaeology or history, gastronomy or adventure, a trip to South Goa will extend your horizons in ways you never imagined. Though beaches are still the primary draw in South Goa, my stay at Treehouse Nova allowed me to see so much more. South Goa is peppered, with various vestiges of Portuguese rule, including famous churches, spectacular waterfalls, unique eateries, enormous forts, and fascinating museums. Here’s a sample of my touring experience. I hope it speaks to you and inspires you to go to these places and do the same things I did.

Watch a Sunset at Arossim Beach

If Goa is famed for its sunsets, Arossim Beach in Cansaulim lives up to its reputation with its mesmerising evenings as the sun sets across the waters of Colla Bay. On one side, the pure and tranquil Arossim beach reaches Cuelim, and on the other, the Cansaulim beach. Each of these three South Goa beaches is covered in pristine sand and is only a short walk from Treehouse Nova. I spent an evening at the stunningly gorgeous and less busy Arossim Beach, taking in a spectacular sunset over Colla Bay’s turquoise seas.

Explore Cultural Heritage at Goa Chitra Museum

Ethnographic museums are curiosity cabinets that house physical collections, as well as, perspectives on intangible history. As a result, I would not have passed up the opportunity to visit Goa Chitra Museum, India’s topmost contemporary museum. Hundreds of pieces ranging from agricultural gadgets to informative exhibitions are on display at the Goa Chitra Museum which narrates stories from many ages. Goa Chitra, located in the former Portuguese town of Benaulim on the coast of Goa, teleports you to a time when agriculture was the backbone of the state. Visit this ethnographic museum to learn about Goa’s folklore agrarian culture with over 4000 artefacts.

This fascinating museum, founded by Victor-Hugo Gomes, houses hundreds of traditional tools, potteries, historical carts, musical instruments, palanquins, wheels, pots, and tools from various ages. The recycling and re-use of doors, woodwork, pillars, windows, railings, and the age-old wisdom passed down through generations astounded me. I wouldn’t miss it for the world if I had another chance to go. You shouldn’t either! Videography is not permitted, however, you are free to take as many photographs as you like.

Visit Three Kings Chapel

With hundreds of interesting legends abounding in Goa, one city tradition suggests the haunted chapel of Three Kings Chapel. The Three Kings Chapel, perched atop Cuelim hill in Cansaulim, is one of South Goa’s most haunted locations, with many believing that the kings’ souls still roam the grounds. According to legend, this cathedral was previously governed, by three kings who killed each other in a bid to become the ultimate monarch. The souls of the monarchs, buried on the church grounds, still wander the grounds, guarding the realm. The Church, however, does not confirm these stories.

Despite that the kingly spirits have never hurt anyone, several people claim to have had ghostly experiences late at night. But, ghost stories aside, Three Kings Chapel is a beautiful place to visit since it allows you to see the abundance of nature. Visitors are not allowed after 6 PM at the church. Do you dare to go there? Well, I did, and I had a great time!

Where to Eat Near Treehouse Nova?

If you grow tired of dining at the in-house restaurant (not that you will), Treehouse Nova is conveniently located near two of South Goa’s greatest eateries. Martin’s Corner in Betalbatim and Pentagon in Majorda. I dined at both, and here’s what I think!

Lunch at Martin’s Corner

Because I was staying at Treehouse Nova, I was close to Martin’s Corner, seafood and traditional Goan cuisine restaurant. Martin’s Corner is a favourite of celebrities all over the world, so I had to visit this South Goan eatery and sample the tantalising flavours it offers. Over a couple of rounds of drinks, Amit and Namrata treated me to a fantastic meal and told me about the history of the place.

Martin’s Delight, a drink prepared with Pine fenny, pineapple juice, coconut syrup, and lime juice, was my first of the day. It tasted really good and put us in the right place, drunk-wise.

Martin’s Corner began as a four-table bistro and has now grown into an award-winning multi-cuisine restaurant. It currently provides Goan cuisine, continental, North Indian, and oriental fare. Mrs Carafina Pereira is the driving force behind this fantastic restaurant with a unique ambience and excellent hospitality. We ate Goan pork sausages chilli fry, Calamari Masala fry, prawn curry rice, and Goan bread for lunch, and caramel custard for dessert. It’s all very satisfying! I’m looking forward to returning to sample their exotica platter.

Dinner at Pentagon

Later that night, Pifrin treated me to an excellent dinner at Pentagon, South Goa’s most exclusive restaurant. This simple yet stylish restaurant is roughly a 10-minute drive from Treehouse Nova and is ideal for small gatherings. I was overjoyed to be at this elegant shack-styled restaurant, where we had a great time eating wonderful foods, sipping classic drinks, dancing to classic tunes, and listening to some fantastic live music. The night kicked off with Moscow Mule(s) and Mojitos, followed by authentic Goan cuisine.

Pentagon’s proficient cooks prepared Goan Red Snapper, butter garlic prawns, Goan sausage packed naan, and Rawa mussels according to our preferences. Great meal, great ambience, incredibly friendly staff, and outstanding service! Ticking all the right boxes, Pentagon Majorda, one of the most exquisite venues in South Goa gives you every reason to pick it.

The Dabolim International Airport is about 12 kilometres away from Treehouse Nova.