The Gateway to Exploring Goa’s Hinterlands: Mansao Curtorim
Tucked away in Curtorim, one of Goa’s most picturesque villages, Mansao Curtorim is a 236-year-old Indo-Portuguese mansion that blends colonial charm with modern luxury. Restored and managed by CGH Earth Saha, we visited this hidden gem. Here’s our experience.
When you think of Goa, it’s usually the lively North or serene South that comes to mind. But tucked away, just 20 minutes inland from the coast, lies Curtorim—a peaceful village brimming with charm, paddy fields, and shimmering lakes. In the heart of this idyllic setting is Mansao Curtorim, a 236-year-old Indo-Portuguese mansion meticulously restored by CGH Earth Saha, and recently opened for guests.
Spaces to savor at Mansao Curtorim
The moment you enter the property, the colonial architecture and vast grounds transport you to a quieter, more elegant era. The mansion faces the tranquil Communidade Lake, where birdsong from kingfishers, cranes, and migratory species creates a soothing natural symphony.
Mansao Curtorim is designed to offer both luxury and warmth, with a perfect blend of heritage and modern comfort. The mansion includes a welcoming living room, a cozy library lounge, and six uniquely styled bedrooms that feature antique four-poster beds, patterned cement tiles, and Portuguese-inspired fabrics.
Each bedroom opens onto a veranda or balcony with views of lush gardens, creating a serene, private retreat. Encircling the mansion is a graceful veranda and a spacious courtyard—ideal for morning walks or moments of quiet reflection.
With its tranquil surroundings, inspiring architecture, and serene ambiance, Mansao Curtorim is a retreat for creative minds seeking inspiration. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or someone looking for a peaceful environment to reflect and create, the property’s charm and quietude provide the perfect backdrop for your imagination to flourish. The expansive layout also makes it a perfect venue for large gatherings, offering ample space to host friends, family, or intimate celebrations.
Culinary highlights
The dining experience at Mansao Curtorim is as memorable as its architecture. The thoughtfully curated menu features Goan delicacies and continental favorites, served in beautifully designed spaces. Standout dishes include the flavorful Lepo curry, rawa-fried kingfish, and beef cafreal from the non-veg Goan thali.
At the same time, breakfast steals the show with fresh fruits, breads and buns, and the delightful Ros omelet in coconut Xacuti gravy. Meals can be enjoyed indoors in an elegant dining room with a long family table or outdoors amidst the lush greenery—a perfect complement to the flavors on your plate.
Exploring beyond the villa
Curtorim’s charm extends far beyond the mansion and CGH Earth beckons you to explore that and discover the Goan susegad life at play.
The staff at the property will happily provide guided activities like cycling tours through Curtorim’s scenic routes and along river Zuari, walk through the village, or even pack a small picnic for you to enjoy as the sun sets over the river.
The village paths are lined by paddy fields and shimmering lakes, and the nearby hillocks offer panoramic views and plenty of photo opportunities to bring out the landscape photographer in you. On Sundays, you’ll see the locals–dressed in their Sunday best–and walking to the mass at St. Alex Church, the village’s principal parish church that dates back over 400 years. Post-mass, the market opens up and you get to see the hustle and bustle of the village. By the afternoon, the markets and sellers retire to rest, to once again reconvene in the evening’s golden hours for a few hours.
Just a short drive away, the twin villages of Chandor and Rachol offer heritage-rich experiences, from stately homes to historic churches and the ancient Rachol seminary. For beach lovers, South Goa’s serene and uncrowded shores at Majorda, Benaulim, and Varca provide the perfect coastal escape. And if you want to experience more of Goa’s flavors and spirits, make sure you visit Panjim’s oldest taverns for innovative Feni cocktails and Goan tapas, about an hour’s drive away.
Final thoughts
Mansao Curtorim isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a journey into the soul of Goa. As CGH Earth’s first property in the state, the mansion blends colonial elegance with modern hospitality, offering a tranquil retreat steeped in history, culture, and nature.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering of loved ones, exploring the Goan hinterlands, or simply soaking in the serene ambiance, every moment here feels like a timeless escape. For those seeking an offbeat, enriching Goan getaway, this hidden gem is a must-visit.
LF Review:★★★.5
Coordinates: House No 1384, Sinai Bagh, Curtorim, Shelvan, Goa, India
