When you think of Goa, the spotlight almost always swings toward the chaos, colour, and constant buzz of North Goa. And while it has its charm, South Goa is where you truly rediscover the Goa that postcards once promised — quiet, soulful, scenic, and soothing. So if you’ve ever wondered what lies beyond the usual party trails of the north, let me be the one to tell you: North Goa has nothing on South Goa. The calm bylanes, the warmth of the locals, the slow-paced serenity — it’s a version of Goa that actually lets you breathe. And if you want to take that peace up several notches, then Heritage Resort & Spa absolutely needs to be on your travel list.
Located near the pristine Arossim Beach in Cansaulim and conveniently close to Dabolim Airport, the resort makes arrival effortless. And here’s something I appreciated almost immediately — it’s a genuinely pet-friendly property, welcoming furry companions with the same warmth as their human guests. You drop your bags, let your pet run around the open lawns, step into your suite, and your Goa experience begins almost instantly. What strikes you first is how beautifully this 5-star boutique resort blends Portuguese-inspired architecture with modern luxury. The terracotta roofs, arched windows, soft colour palette, and spacious courtyards transport you into a world that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
As I walked deeper into the property, the giant shimmering pool was the first thing to steal my heart. Framed by palm trees and sunbeds, the pool is almost like the resort’s heartbeat. And then you spot the sunken bar — a highlight for anyone who loves sipping a chilled drink while staying submerged in calm, blue water. Whether it’s a pina colada, a LIIT, or an espresso martini to combat the Goan heat, the sunken bar brings out the “holiday mode” instantly. I spent the afternoon lounging on a large flamingo float, drifting around without a care in the world — the perfect antidote to city life.
Still high on poolside energy, I decided to explore more and stumbled upon the Rumpus Cabin — a lively recreational space for both kids and adults. Think PS5 sessions, a library corner, board games of every kind, and the kind of fun that makes hours go by without you noticing. It’s family-friendly, interactive, and the perfect place to unwind when you want a break from the outdoors.
Then came the part I was most excited about — the Spa. The Aruna Spa is dedicated to traditional Ayurvedic treatments crafted to rejuvenate your body and spirit. A long, indulgent spa session later, I felt like my senses had rebooted. I returned to my suite — which, by the way, opens up to a sweeping panoramic view of the property — showered, and dressed for dinner with a very eager appetite.
That’s when I found Bonita, one of the resort’s star restaurants. Bonita brings a beautiful blend of European technique and Goan flavours to the table. The Lamb Birria Tacos, Grilled Beef Chimichurri, and Chargrilled Prawns stood out on the small plates menu — each bite rich in flavour, finesse, and freshness. If you’re someone who loves heat and meat, don’t miss the Flamin’ Inferno Pizza or the newly launched Harissa Grilled Chonak — both fiery, flavour-packed, and absolutely worth the hype. Beyond Bonita, the property also offers an incredible culinary lineup with Chutney, Blue Lagoon, and Mama Miso, a Pan-Asian haven that brings comforting flavours and dim-lit ambience together beautifully.
And because no vacation feels complete without a little shopping, the resort has Boutique D’OR — offering kaftans, jewellery, souvenirs, resort wear, and curated finds that match Goa’s easy breezy soul. Adventure lovers also have plenty to lean into — from bird-watching, e-bike rides, kayaking, to a quick tuk-tuk ride to Arossim Beach. If you like staying active, the resort also features a fully equipped gym and wellness space.
I walked into this resort expecting relaxation. What I found was something deeper — a sense of nirvana I didn’t even know I was craving. And that, to me, is the true mark of an unforgettable stay.
