Colonial elegance meets tropical languor in this exquisitely restored 350-year-old former Portuguese mansion turned boutique hotel, tucked away in the sleepy, picturesque village of Siolim, in the heart of north Goa.

Owner Varun Sood, a Zurich-based businessman, spent years scouting abandoned properties in the state before discovering this then derelict but stately mansion, which earlier belonged to the governer of Macau.

Over the next 3 years the property was restored in the Casa de Sobrado-style, modelled on the noble houses of Portugal, using materials and methods as true to the original period as possible.

Despite the numerous antiques on display in the rooms and common areas, Siolim House still manages to feel far more like a well-loved home than a museum, with a real lived-in atmosphere and an informal warmth and charm that belies its ‘heritage’ tag.

It helps that there are modern pleasures and luxuries too, with a beautiful pool and garden to laze in and some truly fantastic food options on offer, including items from the French patisserie Delicieux, which is run by Varun’s partner Lucie.

Siolim House is a truly unique boutique hotel that’s a real joy to stay in, brought alive by the energy and passion of its owner, in a stunning location that manages to remain sedate while still being close to all the best attractions of north Goa.