Assagao Bay

Designer Pio Coffrant Recalls Goa's Rich Indo-Portuguese Past

Tapping into the rich Indo-Portuguese sensibility of the region, this villa for rent in Goa pays homage to its local heritage in a skillful fusion of tropical-inspired design and contemporary sophistication. Designed by French hospitality consultant and interiors designer Pio Coffrant, his passion for the country's traditions and history combined with personalized services is the basis for a portfolio of unique properties he's created around the country.  The whitewashed structure maintains an airy sense of openness throughout the spaces with nostalgic nods to the colonial past and lovely pastel shades of turquoise and green to reflect the waters of the Arabian Sea and the tropical gardens.

Much of the furnishings and decor are locally sourced and custom made, with several pieces designed by Coffrant in wood and shells. Come experience the unique old world charms and elegance among Goa's tropical beauty.

Placed in perfect north south orientation and immersed within a hushed tropical garden, this four bedroom villa for rent in Goa is an intimate and stylish retreat in one of the state's prettiest and culturally creative villages.

The central veranda is the focal point of the house and leads to the large and airy ground floor living room and library. There's a media/TV lounge, and an extra large open-air dining area overlooking the gardens that connects to different parts of the villa.  The beautiful and serene master suite is on the first floor, with a large private terrace and a bed made of local shells. There's a smaller double room with a large ensuite bathroom a balcony overlooking the pool, and two additional bedrooms, one facing the pool and the other facing the gardens. 

The grounds are a private tropical oasis with a cooling pool at the center and several sunny and shady lounge areas for relaxing. 

EXPERIENCES

The house is fully staffed, with a private chef and daily housekeeping included. Complimentary breakfast (Indian or Continental) is served on the veranda. Fresh bread is accompanied by Kerala spiced scrambled organic eggs or Turkish eggs. Locally sourced sausage, cheese, jam, butter, tea and single-origin coffee are served alongside fresh fruits and homemade yogurt. Optional lunch and dinner menus are available at additional cost. Spa, massage and yoga services are available on site or can be booked at local studios.

Ask your host for inside tips about where to sightsee, shop and eat in the Goan capital, Panjim. Book a birdwatching, crocodile- or dolphin-spotting cruise. Try a one-day surf lesson, or go all in with a 3-5-day course. Or book a two-hour walking tour, exploring the chuches of Old Goa, the Portuguese architecture in Panjim's Fontainhas quarter, or the Indo-Portuguese mansions in Assagao. Alternatively, accompany your chef to Mapusa market, where you can buy fresh fish, vegetables, and local spices, which you can turn into fish curry or prawn xacuti.

AROUND

Located slightly inland from the shores of the Arabian Sea, the quiet and pretty village of Assagao in northern Goa is equal parts colonial beauty and history and idyllic rustic charm, and one of the hippest and trendiest in the state, with excellent cuisine, unique shops, and yoga studios. Bordered by hills and tropical forests, the village has become a rapidly emerging creative and cultural hub that thankfully escapes some of the rowdiness of the nightlife scene in other parts of Goa.  

It's a short 10-25-minute drive to some of the best beaches, including Ashwem and Morjim, and within walking distance to some of the town's best restaurants and local cuisine. Check out the Mapusa market for spices and fresh produce.

Arriving in the 16th century, the Portuguese influence in Goa extends throughout the state with ornate baroque architecture, forts and cathedrals leaving their mark along with traditional cuisine and Fado music. Blessed with tropical interiors, a magnificent fusion of history and golden sand beaches from top to toe, Goa is rich with diversity, flavor and beauty. The state capital of Panjim is within a thirty minute drive.

LOCATION

Assagao, Goa, India. Nearest airport: Dabolim International (40 km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year-round. Goa is no longer just a winter destination. The hosts recommend the monsoon season (June through August) when Goa becomes a lush, tropical paradise.