Mashobra, also called as the ‘Quieter Shimla’ is dominated by mist bathed hills, deodar, pine and oak trees that enchant visitors and help them to connect with the rich, fresh surroundings and unwind.
It boasts of some stunning picturesque locations that have served interesting backdrops to award winning movies. In this location, lies the beautiful Marigold Sarovar Portico that is as enchanting as the breathtaking hill station.
After a 5 hour long Shatabdi train journey, me and my husband board the cab sent by the hotel. A long winding road takes us to the beautiful hotel that sprawls out over a few acres.
There’s a sweeping driveway and also a kitchen garden where herbs and vegetables are grown organically.
First Impressions –
The rooms are luxurious and well-maintained. The size of our room was above excellent.
The king size bed was comfortable and perfectly neat with crisp white sheets and most importantly the pillows are plentiful. The duvet is the type I only wish I could afford.
It was also well equipped with a kettle and tea/coffee sachets to get you started on your day of exploring! For a little more luxury a platter of scrumptious cookies and fruit platter was kept as a sign of extra care.
There are views of the stunning mountains from the ceiling to floor windows which are just lovely. The toiletries, bathrobe and slippers were perfectly apt to relax after the tiring and long drive uphill.
Dining @ Craignano
The hotel is well equipped with a multi cuisine restaurant called Craignano and a fully functional bar. The real excitement however comes when you begin your culinary odyssey.
The large windows of the Restaurant looks out onto the calm and breathtaking scenery, but equally pleasant it is to absorb you in the hospitality and warmth of the staff while dining.
Our timing was just perfect for lunch. We ordered some lentils, chicken cooked in curd, spinach and cottage cheese, some biryani and curd. I have to admit the food is top notch, light on the palette, fresh and succulent to taste.
The executive chef Vipan works ardently and ensures each ingredient is carefully selected while crafting his masterpieces. He doesn’t believe in compromises and that was very evident in the dishes he prepared. Besides that, his warm smile and hospitality already won our hearts.
Activities at Sarovar Portico Shimla
There is a spa, an activity room and an outdoor activity area where families can bond well. I loved the variety of games they had in the activity room. This shows the concern of the hotel for the guests.
Sight seeing
We drove towards the first famous stop called Naldhera – This spot is well known for the large golf course, a famous temple on the top and stunning views of the snow covered peaks. We rode on horses to visit the spots and discovered solace when we reached the top.
We also visited the Catchment area which is run by a Government body. The area has hundreds of birds and variants of tress like deodar and cedar that are all lined up.
It feels very peaceful once you are in this range and connect with the natural surroundings. The walk is a 7 Km long one but we made it only half way and returned back.
Glen the Bar –
The Bar was exactly how it sounds – elegant, classy and intimate. The upholstery goes well with the furnishings that feels immensely comfortable.
We indulged ourselves with their delicious Whiskey sour and tasted the cocktails to close our day. The Bar also serves some petite snack foods to compliment the cocktails.
For dinner, we preferred to have the meal in the room itself. I was very impressed with their in-room dining. The staff ensures that the table is well laid and the cutlery and napkins well placed. The chef had prepared some Mediterranean fare for us which included hummus and pita bread and some Shawarma rolls. We ate to our hearts content while watching a Bollywood Flick on telly.
My review ended on a beautiful and memorable note. I was elated with the warmth and hospitality of the Sarovar team members. Each staff member gives 100 % of themselves in their designated duties.
Location
Address: Mashobra Naldehra, Road, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171007
Phone: 092185 86015
