Feb 17, 2009 03:30 PM
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On the valentine’s day weekend, my family and my sis-in-law’s family decided to go to Orchard resort. I had been there earlier, I think March 2008. But, I must say this time it was a totally different experience- very satisfying and beyond expectations.
But first things first- The food quality was consistently good, service impeccable with a personal touch, room service prompt and untiring and amenities well maintained and generous. Rooms are clean, AC works, TV has DISH TV and rest rooms are hygienic with hot shower any time of the day. If at all there is a con, it is that none of the rooms have double beds, although the housekeeping depending on who is checking in, quickly transform the two single beds into a double bed.
The resort ambience is very pleasant. I was impressed by the courtesy and hospitability shown by the staff. I did not receive a ‘no’ for an answer…they always made provisions.
Orchard resort is very close to Pune on Pune-Bangalore NH4. Just after the Katraj toll towards Bangalore, you will find a bug hoarding on your left. There is a Reliance gas station next to it, so you won’t miss it.
We went for a package deal which costs 3000/- including AC rooms and all meals inclusive. breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and tea, coffee. We got some discount as well.
In the afternoon, we had nice time at the swimming pool. The pool is not very deep, but the water is clean and the main attraction are the slides which end in the pool.after a few water games and swim, it was time for evening snacks.and vada pav.evening were spent playing pool, carom and table tennis, my kid was enjoying slides and swings in the play area, or you can just kick the ball around in the generous lawns which are well maintained.
Just before dinner, we had some beer, gimlet and Screw Driver served outside our room where we were lazing and then the stage was set for some gastronomic delights. Again the dinner was excellent.(butter chicken was yummy). After dinner, the place got transformed into a Discotheque with DJ, hi-tech mixing equipment, dancing lights, et al. We danced our hearts out and by the time we went to sleep it was well past midnight.
For an early riser like me, I love to go on morning walks before the sun comes out. And this was the best part of the whole vacation. Me and my bro-in-law set out on a jogging trail besides the resort. After a few meters, we saw some movement behind the bushes. I thought there was some dog, but on a closer look, I saw the most beautiful peacocks that I had ever seen, I went closer to have a good look, and it was magnificent, A nearby local told me that if you get lucky you can see some deers, rabbits or even jackal. I don’t know if that is true. but if that is then this resort has a great potential to develop into a nature’s resort. The hillock can be a great spot and serve as a mini-trek to morning joggers like me….
All in all it was one helluva of a weekend. waiting for another chance to revisit again.
Some important contacts:
You can also visit the website: https://theorchardresort.com
Resort address: Shivanand Enclave, Pune-Satara Road, Taluka Bhor, Dist-Pune
Then also have a day package but I recommend an overnight stay and an early morning walk on the hillock to maximize value of this resort.
Quick Tip: Carry Binoculars if you have and set out early( 6.00 am) if you want to get lucky with some wild fauna.
