Mumbai’s relentless pace can be exhilarating, but sometimes, escape is necessary. For those in bustling metro cities, the need to unwind and reconnect with oneself is paramount. Brightland Resort & Spa in Mahabaleshwar offers just that – a tranquil haven a short drive from the city chaos. This detailed review dives into what makes Brightland a sought-after destination for a rejuvenating getaway.
Getting to Brightland Resort from Mumbai is a scenic journey. Starting early morning ensures a smooth drive, with a traditional breakfast stop at McD, Kalamboli. As you leave the city behind and ascend towards Lonavala and Khandala, the landscape transforms into misty hills, promising a refreshing change. A turn off NH48 towards Wai and then Panchgani leads you to Mahabaleshwar and the welcoming gates of Brightland Resort & Spa.
The sheer size of Brightland Resort & Spa is truly impressive, sprawling across 6 acres. This established 4-star property, with over two decades of history, welcomes a consistent stream of guests throughout the year, a testament to its enduring appeal. Exploring the resort grounds after check-in reveals the expansive nature of the property, a world away from the cramped city spaces.
Brightland Resort offers a diverse range of accommodations with nine distinct room categories. While each room type varies in size and view, all maintain a consistent standard of warm décor and luxurious amenities. From cozy rooms to spacious suites, guests can find the perfect fit for their needs and preferences. Options range from the romantic Oak Suite, complete with a four-poster bed and outdoor Jacuzzi for honeymooners, to the Ivy Suite, ideal for families or groups, featuring valley views, a 42” TV, dining area, and bar, perfect for entertaining. This is just a glimpse of the variety available; the resort’s website provides comprehensive details and virtual tours of each room category.
During my stay, I experienced the comfort of a Maple Suite. These seven luxurious and generously sized rooms are conveniently located adjacent to each other, sharing a semi-private patio area. Thoughtfully designed with individual patios separated by lush plants, the Maple Suites offer a unique blend of communal space and personal privacy, ideal for larger groups wanting to socialize together while still enjoying their own private retreats.
The Maple Suite provided a truly restful experience. Waking up to the sounds of nature, drawing back the curtains to reveal the misty morning, and stepping onto the patio to breathe in the fresh air was a delightful start to each day. The room’s amenities, including tea and coffee making facilities, ensured a quick and convenient way to begin the morning with a warm beverage on the patio, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Inside the Maple Suite, the king-sized bed was a haven of comfort, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Despite the desire to work, the plush pillows were incredibly inviting. The large screen TV and comfortable sofa created a cozy entertainment space for movie nights and enjoying room service. The generously sized wardrobe stood out, exceeding the storage space even in many luxury hotels. A thoughtful and practical amenity was the in-room heater, which proved invaluable for quickly drying wet clothes after unexpected rain showers during sightseeing, a welcome feature that prevented the usual hassle of traveling with damp clothing.
The bathroom in the Maple Suite was a highlight, featuring a bright and modern design. Encased in glass, it offered a unique and stylish aesthetic, with white curtains providing privacy from the bedroom. The bathroom was well-appointed with dual white sinks set in beige marble, a spacious shower, and a bathtub adorned with potted plants, adding a touch of natural freshness. Impeccable cleanliness and a generous supply of toiletries and essentials further enhanced the luxurious bathroom experience.
Breakfast at Brightland Resort is a truly indulgent affair. The buffet spread is extensive and caters to diverse palates. The nostalgic touch of classic cornflakes alongside a wide array of juices, jams, cheeses, croissants, and muffins creates a delightful start to the day. The breakfast selection is not static; with many items changing daily, ensuring variety and freshness for guests staying multiple days. From South Indian specialties to an egg counter, waffles, pancakes, and homemade preserves and cheeses, the buffet is comprehensive. Enjoying a perfect cup of masala chai amidst the elegant ambiance of the dining area, with views of the sun filtering through the mist over the valley, elevates the breakfast experience.
The dining experience at Brightland extends beyond breakfast. Initially planning to explore local eateries, the quality of food within the resort itself proved so appealing that there was no need to venture out. The wood-fired pizza from Olive Garden, enjoyed in the room while watching a movie, was a particular highlight. Pavillon offers multi-cuisine options, while Angaare provides an outdoor BBQ experience. Over the Edge lounge, perched at the resort’s edge, offers stunning views of the surrounding forest, creating a relaxing setting to unwind.
Prana Spa, located within Brightland Resort, is a significant draw. Recognized as Mahabaleshwar’s oldest and most premium spa, Prana is open to both resort guests and the public. The spa menu is comprehensive, featuring a range of treatments from traditional Ayurveda to Oriental and Western massages. My experience included a 40-minute purifying facial, designed to rejuvenate and refresh the skin after travel. The therapist, Binita, began with an aura cleanse using energizing rose and patchouli oils, and basil and fragrance oils to dispel negative energy. The spa’s ambiance, with calming music, luxurious purple satin fabrics, soft robes, scented candles, and flowers, contributes to a deeply relaxing and zen-like atmosphere. The experience concludes with dry fruits and honey-lemon tea, adding a thoughtful touch.
For those with limited time, Prana Spa offers express treatments like foot or back massages, and more unique options like the dry herb rub (udvartana) followed by a steam session. Longer treatments, including clay wraps, bath experiences, back polishes, and the signature Escenza Touch massage, are also available. Notably, Prana Spa also caters to younger guests with a Junior Spa menu for children aged 5-16, with parental accompaniment required for children aged 5-10.
Brightland Resort & Spa boasts an impressive array of amenities, ensuring guests have ample activities without needing to leave the property. The pool area, complete with a jacuzzi, is just one of the many highlights.
Beyond the spa and pool, Brightland offers a health club with separate steam, sauna, and shower facilities for men and women, a games room with foosball, carrom, table tennis, and board games, a colorful toddler play area, a kids’ zone with outdoor play equipment, a library, conference facilities, a gym, yoga amenities, and tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts. Evening entertainment options include karaoke nights and treasure hunts for children. While offering extensive family-friendly amenities, it is worth noting that Brightland Resort is not pet-friendly.
In conclusion, a stay at Brightland Resort & Spa Mahabaleshwar is a truly worthwhile experience. The attentive and courteous staff, combined with the resort’s extensive amenities and serene location, make it an ideal destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating escape from city life. The drive from Mumbai is well-justified by the tranquility and luxury that awaits. Brightland Resort & Spa comes highly recommended for those seeking a comprehensive and memorable getaway in Mahabaleshwar.