Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The hill ranges of the Western Ghats are a biogeographically unique hotspot of flora and fauna. Now they include the new Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat and Spa, near Pune in Maharashtra, opening in time for the cooler monsoon season, among 3,500 acres of lush forest, rice fields and bamboo plantations.
Each of the 99 large villas, in natural tones and textures with private decks or balconies, comes with a dedicated butler service. Food will be largely Asian and Mediterranean dishes prepared from locally sourced organic produce.
Central to the resort is the 70-acre spa with a yoga pavilion, meditation cave and 17 treatment rooms for 150 treatments ranging from reiki, acupressure, aromatherapy and naturopathy.
Opening rate of £270 B&B. For more information, visit shillimretreatandspa.hilton.com (British Airways flies to Mumbai, two-and-a-half hours’ drive away)