A plush 20-room property built from the façade of an old Portuguese villa in the sleepy village of Saligao, Shanti Morada is one of a growing number of Goa hotels that bridge the gap between rustic charm and high-end indulgence.

Owner Rajat Verma, who has a background in film production, has created a space in which one finds a charming, laidback Goan experience that still has all the trimmings and creature comforts a luxury holiday demands.

Designed by Rajat and his wife Sanjana, the hotel retains its Portuguese façade so as to mask its modern interiors from the outside world. Once entered, a small reception area leads into the rear courtyard where 20 rooms with their balconies and verandahs surround the sparkling landscaped pool.

On a higher level there’s the Jacuzzi bar, and above that a terraced garden, with a bamboo massage hut and yoga shala set amongst the trees. There is also a pool room, a restaurant with excellent north-Indian food, and two common lounges inside the main building.

The décor is grand and often kitsch with large and expensive items sourced from Rajasthan, Goa and Bali. Statement pieces fill the rooms and lounges while stone sculptures dot the property inside and out, which is beautifully lit at night with copper lanterns and strings of light abseiling over the old well.

After a long day sightseeing or hanging out at the beach you can return here to a room with powerful A/C, large satellite TV and immaculate bathroom complete with copper bathtub and separate shower area. Shanti Morada is a great venue if you’re seeking 5-star luxury and attentive service in a smaller setting.