An eco-friendly resort near Nashik, Maharashtra
Grape County is a 150-acre property surrounded by about 3,000 acres of forests close to Nashik. The property boasts of a manmade seven-acre lake, forested grounds, resort-like amenities, beautiful and unique stay options and eco-friendly practices.
The resort offers accommodation in 11 villas, seven luxury tents and 15 farmhouses. Do note that the farmhouses are set apart from the common facilities like reception and restaurant and require a short drive in their golf carts.
The rooms are unique but are all spacious and well-appointed. The Sky Rooms offer uninterrupted views of the forested grounds and the lake. The luxury tents give guests a taste of glamping with well-appointed permanent tents set amidst lush greenery. The farmhouses, all large and tastefully decorated, are perfect for big groups of families and friends as they can accommodate between eight and 12 guests.
The multi-cuisine restaurant ensures guests are well fed and have a choice of Indian and international dishes.
The grounds are worth exploring. The management has ensured that the property remains a biodiversity hotspot with thousands of species of native flora that provide a rich habitat for the many species of animals, birds and insects here. A nature trail is a great way to explore the property. Kayaking on the lake, trekking, horse riding, wine tours, cycling trips and bird watching hikes are all easily organised.
Price: Rs 7,999 to Rs 16,999 (not including GST), depending on type of accommodation.
Read more: http://www.grapecounty.in/
At Grape County, 25% of energy requirement is met through solar power. The property has installed a Gravity Based Root Zone System for waste water management. The resort consumes about 30,000 ltrs but also re-uses/recycles all 30,000 ltrs so water is not wasted. The buildings are designed in such a way as to ensure that windows account for 14% of carpet area and and are toward windward side, which ensures air conditioners are not needed. Also, sunlight is enough to light up much of the common areas in the daytime. Eco-friendly, energy-saving, water-saving and durable materials were used during construction. 75% of the furniture are made from re-used woods. Bio-gas plant is used for lighting up street lamps and vermi-composting practices are followed.