Here’s Why You Should Consider Amaraanth In South Goa For Your Next Luxurious Escape

While North Goa’s always been the crowd-puller, thanks to its wild nightlife, food scene, endless stay options, and lively markets, I’ll always have a soft spot for South Goa. It’s quieter, cleaner, less touristy, and perfect if you’re craving that slow, soulful kind of vacation. Give me a peaceful beach over a packed party any day! So it’s no surprise that I found myself escaping to a relatively new resort in South Goa for a dose of calm. And did I mention I went there solo?

Just a short stroll from the serene Fatrade Beach in Varca, sits Amaraanth—a dreamy twelve-suite seaside hideaway brought to life by Shradha Binani (daughter of businessman Mr. Braj Binani). Initially a Binani family holiday home, Amaraanth draws its name from a flower that, as per Greek mythology, never withers. The promise being that the memory of your time here, too, will not fade. Fitting, because after spending time at this gorgeous property, I can honestly say that I truly didn’t feel like leaving. 

Beach House Paradise 

Though I visited during the sweltering summer months of Goa, the earthy tones and green pastures of Amaraanth put me at ease as soon as I arrived. Designed by architect George Seemon, the structure features laterite stones, giving it that grounded, Goan character, while bamboo and wicker accents add warmth and texture. 

As I waited in the lobby, sipping on some refreshing kokum juice, I noticed how thoughtfully the space had been designed. The waiting lounge seamlessly doubles up as an extension of the restaurant, functioning as a coffee shop, library or simply a spot to unwind. Inspired by the nearby sea, the restaurant features a mural called Under The Sea by local artist Thomas Louis, bringing a touch of marine life into the resort.

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Step outside and you're greeted by a sparkling swimming pool, a garden begging for a picnic, and art-filled nooks featuring works by the likes of artists like Subodh Kerkar and Bhisaji Gadekar. My butler, Pfoseko, soon arrived to escort me to my suite. 

Humble Abode

On opening the door of my Signature ground-floor suite, I was greeted by a private landscaped courtyard, perfect to enjoy a morning cuppa. Slide open the doors, and you walk into a spacious, neutral-toned bedroom that makes you feel at home. Art finds its way here too—my room featured Dibin Thilakan’s ‘Ode To Home.’ But what truly won me over? A stunning open-to-sky bathtub, sitting on a bed of natural stone, framed by lush green plants, creating a perfect indoor-outdoor flow. I could’ve stayed there all day, but I knew a wellness ritual was planned, so I saved that experience for later. 

The upstairs rooms are equally charming and offer sweeping views of the landscape—ideal if you're someone who likes waking up to a visual treat.

Savouring Flavours & Moments

After settling in, I was ready to eat. Helmed by culinary curator Ritu Dalmia, Amaraanth’s menu ranges from Goan-inspired food to pan-Indian classics and international concepts for a well-travelled visitor. Think Laksa Lobster Roll, Choriz Sfogliatelle (a kind of pastry stuffed with Goan choriz) that’s served with a honey labneh dip, wood-fired pizzas, Gnocchi Parisienne, or Butternut Squash Tortellini, a signature dish at Chef Dalmia’s Delhi-based Italian restaurant Diva.

However, it was the Goan thali that called out to me the most. Featuring Goan fish curry, rawa fried prawns, chicken cafreal, dal, tendli masala, red rice, poie, sol kadi, pickles and papad, it left me more than satisfied. 

Breakfast here is equally delightful. Whether served in-room or at Amaraanth Kitchen, expect wood-fired sourdough, spinach and feta quiches, fruit and fromage tartlets, and baked goodies (including gluten-free options from Panjim’s Gourmestan). Then there’s upma and dosa, eggs to order, pancakes, parathas, and, of course, Goan choriz alongside a buffet of other items that will set you up for the day.

What also caught my eye was how the restaurant’s menu lists the local farms and producers that supply their ingredients—a lovely, transparent touch.

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After lunch and a quick power nap, I took the short walk down to Fatrade Beach. With a chilled beer in hand and the sun setting over the horizon, my Goa experience felt complete. But wait, there was still more to drink.

Intriguing Sips

The Lab at Amaraanth is a collaboration with Countertop India, one of India's leading bar and beverage consulting companies, led by Pankaj Balachandran. Staying true to Amaraanth’s local-first philosophy, the cocktail menu here focuses on regional ingredients and sustainable practices.

I grabbed a seat at the bar where Uttkarsh Antwal, currently helming the beverage programme, suggested a few standout drinks. I started with Red Amaraanth, a gin-based cocktail starring the beloved Goan leafy green. Grandmom’s Curry followed, inspired by classic Goan curry ingredients like tomato, tamarind, coriander, coconut milk, and ginger, but served as a tequila-based drink. Key Lime Pie uses spent citrus peels from a local distillery, green peppercorn, vanilla and yoghurt. Caper Berry Smash was a mix of pisco, Bianco, and pickled caper leaves from a farm in Tuticorin.

If you’re curious, you can even sign up for a cocktail mixing session with the Countertop team, or try a feni tasting under the iconic cashew tree on the property (you’ll spot it instantly thanks to Subodh Kerkar’s bold red cashew installation).

Wellness That Grounds You 

The best was kept for last. The morning after, I experienced the offerings of The HVN, London’s conscious wellbeing landmark, which makes its India debut through Amaraanth. The speciality? HVN’s Hydro Bed, a water mattress heated to 38°C that cradles the body and allows for massages, scrubs, wraps and cleansing to happen right on the bed. If you’re someone like me who doesn’t like the oily mess, you’ll definitely enjoy this. Plus, it makes you feel relaxed and recharged at the same time. There are also outdoor bathing rituals, which can be enjoyed either at the spa or in your suite’s bathtub. I headed back to my room for the final act of my stay—my bath was prepared with some sea salt and green tea on the side. I slipped in, meditated, and let everything else melt away. For a few moments, there was nothing but calm. Exactly what I came looking for, and more.