South Goa takes great pride in its natural beauty and village traditions. The golden white beaches here, while tourist friendly, aren’t over commercialised. Less crowded  and cleaner, they attract tourists looking for a quieter holiday.  Our homes away from homes with private pools and panoramic views are an oasis of calm.

Beyond the beaches, South Goa has tons to offer from spice trails, river cruises, and treks through the Western Ghats. The Dudhsagar waterfall, the Mangeshi and Shantadurga are huge draws too. 

The business of villa rentals in South Goa is a more premium affair. While the South has its fair share of star hotels, the number of exclusive villas in South Goa with private pools that meet the same standards of hospitality can be hard to come by, if you are looking elsewhere. All the services we provide are excellent for a good price. We at VillaGoa pride ourselves on our collection of the best, most premium villas in South Goa for rent. VillaGoa’s unmatched services have continued to place us high in the esteem of our clients, many of whom we’ve hosted more than once. 

South Goa beach villas are very attractive choice to beach lovers

Our stylish villas in South Goa for rent, including ones right on the beach, offer a much sought-after exclusivity with all the trappings of a five-star hotel but at a good price.

Below are some of our finest villas for rent in South Goa:

•  Villa Absolut, Cavelossim Beach
• Villa Nameh, Cavelossim Beach

The proximity of our villas to Cavelossim’s beaches and the Sal River allows guests to enjoy fantastic views and easy access to the natural beauty that surrounds them. Whether it’s a morning stroll on the beach or an evening boat ride on the river, the villas in Cavelossim are perfect for the wonderful landscape.

Cavelossim and Luisa by the sea villas offer an old style charm

Cavelossim is a quiet yet enjoyable place for those seeking a peaceful and fun-filled vacation. Its beaches stretch for miles, offering a secluded place away from the crowds amidst palm trees and the gentle waves. Along the banks of the Sal River, visitors can embark on serene boat rides, witnessing breathtaking sunsets and exploring mangrove-lined shores. Local markets offer a taste of Goan culture through unique souvenirs and traditional artefacts. There are many restaurants and cafes, from fresh seafood to international cuisines and people who love water sports can find joy in activities like jet skiing and parasailing. In every aspect, Cavelossim beautifully captures the laid-back charm and natural beauty that defines the serene beauty of South Goa.

Experience nature at its best while staying in a villa instead of a hotel

Some of Goa’s beaches, like the Agonda and Galgibag beaches for example, are Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites. The latter is a lesser known pristine beach that has benefitted from the conservative commercial development it has seen in the interest of the vulnerable species. Its southern end curls into the mouth of the Galgibaga river, offering the perfect place to meditate on the powers that imaged this beautiful planet. The shacks, sunbeds and party music of the north has not been missed by any visitor who chose to come visit Galgibaga.

The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is nearby, with the option of doing some more wildlife spotting. Renting a villa in South Goa, has the added advantage of being close to rich sanctuaries of the Western Ghats. A biodiversity hotspot, the Ghats here will stun you with its beauty. Particularly lush after the monsoons, the Western ghats gurgles from the sound of its full waterfalls.

The Mandovi, post monsoons, comes cascading down from a  310 metres height into a deep green pool, inside the Bhagwan Mahavir National Park. This phenomenon of streaming, white as milk, water against the rocks of the Sahyadri range, is the popular waterfall Dudhsagar (translates to sea of milk) that draws thousands of visitors. From our conveniently located villas in South Goa, Dudhsagar is a convenient car ride away. We will also help you sign up for jungle walks in the Netravali or Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuaries, if you spare the time.

The slopes of the western ghats are also home to lush spice plantations that are more than happy to host you for the day. Making a villa in South Goa your base, you can enjoy the fantastic range of nature trails that these parts have to offer.

The spice plantation scene in South Goa provides a captivating journey into the heart of Goa’s agricultural heritage. These plantations offer visitors an immersive and educational experience, showcasing the cultivation and processing of a wide array of aromatic spices.

One notable spice plantation is the Sahakari Spice Farm, located in the village of Ponda. As you enter, a symphony of scents envelops you – the heady aroma of cloves, the pungency of black pepper, and the sweet fragrance of vanilla. Guided tours take visitors through the plantation, providing insights into the cultivation methods of various spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The tour often concludes with a traditional Goan meal, allowing guests to savour the flavours of the very spices they’ve just explored.

Villas and hotel of South Goa are bliss for wedding functions

South Goa, with its pristine white beaches is also a favourite for destination weddings. Our villas, with their large verandahs and gardens, can host smaller wedding parties. They are perfect for the pre wedding shoots. We will be more than happy to find you the best wedding photographers in the state. Freeze-frame your love against the backdrop of some of South Goa’s most beautiful homes.

The beautiful villas with lavish decor and luxury amenities are a perfect backdrop for weddings creating both a homely yet sophisticated vibe where you can create memories to cherish forever.

Heritage and Architecture through holiday villas in South Goa

Rent a villa in South Goa, and you can also immerse yourself in the heritage and architecture of South Goa. Madgaon, the second largest town of Goa was once the commercial capital of the Portuguese colony. Its grand old buildings, in particular the impressive Municipal building and the municipal garden, stand testimony to the glorious days of trading this town has overseen as the capital of the Salcete taluka.

Sign up for any of the heritage walks that will take you round the beautiful streets of this town. Some of these massive bungalows, magnificent examples of Indo Portuguese architecture, also throw open their doors to tourists, for a peek into the life and times of Goa’s grand old families.  Also check out the late Baroque,  Largo de Igreja or the Church of the Holy Spirit right in the centre of town. You cannot miss, even if you tried, the ‘House of Seven Gables’ or ‘Sat Burzam Ghor’. 

If you love architecture, you should drive down Chandor to visit the stunning 16th century Braganza House spread over about 10,000 square meters in all its splendour. About 20 minutes north of Margao, stands the 250 year old Casa Araujo Alvares in the picturesque Loutolim village, the ancestral home of cartoonist Mario Miranda.The mansion, like many of Goa’s grandest, holds a chapel at the centre of its inner courtyard. The Alvares family has produced a sound and light show guide for visitors.

Cabo de Rama is home to the Cabo de Rama Fort, a structure with a rich history dating back centuries. Originally built by Hindu rulers, the fort later passed into the hands of the Portuguese in the 16th century. Over the years, it has witnessed various historical events, including battles and changes of ownership. The fort itself offers a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can explore the fort’s ruins, including the chapel within its walls. The peaceful ambiance and the historical aura make Cabo de Rama Fort a serene and introspective place. Within the Cabo de Rama Fort, there is a chapel dedicated to St. Antonio. Pilgrims and visitors often come here to offer prayers, adding a religious touch to the historical and natural significance of the site.

Festivals,  Celebrations and temples take on a different turn when experienced in a luxury villas in South Goa

During your stay in our villas don’t miss the many festivals and cultural events in South Goa. The Carnival of Goa, celebrated with colourful parades, music, and dance, is a spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. The Shigmo festival, marking the arrival of spring, showcases traditional Goan folk dances and vibrant processions.

Shigmo, the spring festival of Goa, is celebrated with excitement in South Goa, usually in March. This Hindu festival marks the arrival of spring and is characterised by colourful processions, traditional folk dances, and music. The streets come alive with performers adorned in vibrant costumes, showcasing Goa’s rich cultural heritage.

When in Margao, visit the small Damodar Sal, that Swami Vivekananda stayed in during his visit to Goa in 1892.

South Goa is where many of Goa’s most important Hindu temples of Goa stand, escaping the 16the century Inquisition, a dark period of Goa’s Portuguese history. Many of these Goan deities found new homes in the west and southern part of the state that fell out of the first conversion drive of the colonial rulers.

The 450 year old Mangeshi temple in Priol dedicated to Lord Siva  is a stellar example of Goan temple architecture, with the typical water tank and a unique seven  story octagonal lamp tower. On Monday evenings, the deity Lord Mangesh steps out in a palanquin.

For devotees of Lord Siva, the temple dedicated to his female avatar Mohini should also be on the itinerary. The 17th century Mahalasa Narayani Temple in Mardol, Ponda boasts of a spectacular 12.5 meters tall brass lamp.

One of the most important of Goa’s temples, the Shantadurga Temple in Kavalem village, Ponda is worth a visit for both its religious place and its historical and architectural significance. More than 450 years old, the temple has unique architectural features amalgamating Portuguese elements, like arched windows, with indigenous temple architecture.

When you rent a villa in South Goa, western Goa which the Portuguese conquered later will unfold for you. Also located in these preserves of Hindu Goa, is the 12th century Mahadev Temple at Sanguem, the only example today of the Kadamba-Yadava architectural style.

Experience food and drinks like never before while staying in a luxury villa in South Goa

You cannot miss the food when in Goa. Goan cuisine is a delightful blend of Portuguese and Indian flavours, and South Goa is a haven for food enthusiasts. From beachside shacks serving fresh seafood to quaint cafes offering traditional Goan dishes, the culinary scene is diverse and flavorful. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour a plate of spicy fish curry rice or try the local specialty, Bebinca, a layered Goan dessert. The influence of Portuguese cuisine is evident in the variety of bread available in South Goa. Pão, a type of bread, and Poi, a soft and fluffy bread, are commonly enjoyed with different curries and gravies. South Goa’s beachside shacks and local eateries are renowned for serving freshly caught fish, lightly marinated and fried to perfection. Fish Curry Rice, a staple in Goan households, features a tangy and spicy curry served with steamed rice.

A handful of proud Goans have taken it upon themselves to promote, preserve and celebrate Goa’s distilled cashew drink, Feni.  The world’s first feni cellar, more of a museum really carefully curated, by the founder of Cazulo, Hansel Vaz is located in South Goa. Beco das Garrafas, located near Cansaulim host feni tasting, pairing Feni cocktails with a range of food, as you might for whiskey. Stay in South Goa, and learn everything about the cashew fruit, from its cultivation to its distillation, as practised by Goans for centuries.