-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org)
Nature Trails, the adventure and nature-led hospitality arm of Thomas Cook (India) Limited, has announced its strategic entry into Goa with the launch of Rock Valley. Located in Ponda, at the foothills of the Western Ghats, this resort marks the brand’s fourth property in India and its first outside Maharashtra. Spread across a sprawling 15-acre property within a larger 200-acre forest and farmland landscape, Rock Valley offers a “different side of Goa” focused on eco-tourism and high-octane outdoor experiences.
Property Highlights & Adventure Experiences
Rock Valley is designed to move away from the traditional coastal bustle of Goa, offering a restorative inland sanctuary.
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Unique Location: Situated on the edge of the Western Ghats, providing a cooler climate and proximity to heritage temples, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.
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Accommodations: Features room categories exceeding 250 sq. ft., including Forest View Cottages, Valley View Rooms, and Private Pool Villas, all with private sit-out areas.
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Adventure Hub: Home to Goa’s longest zipline, the resort also features:
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High & Low Rope Courses: Burma Bridge, Spider Walk, and Net Walk.
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Motorized Thrills: ATV rides through rugged off-road tracks.
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Water Sports: Kayaking and boating on the calm Khandepar backwaters (seasonal).
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Unique Activities: Human Gyro, Bungee Trampoline, rappelling, and target shooting.
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Wellness & Nature: Two infinity pools with valley views, guided birdwatching, and an in-house Spice Farm tour.
Culinary & Corporate Offerings
The resort caters to both leisure travelers and the growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment.
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Dining: The open-air restaurant serves a blend of authentic Goan flavors (including Saraswat thalis and seafood), Indian, and Chinese cuisines.
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Events: A dedicated conference room with a 120-guest capacity makes it a prime venue for teambuilding offsites and corporate retreats.
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Sustainability: Built using eco-friendly materials like wood and bamboo to ensure a minimal environmental footprint.
Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Limited: “Nature Trails is Thomas Cook’s strategic investment to tap into India’s booming domestic opportunity by offering novel, experience-led travel offerings blending nature, activity, and adventure… Our expansion into Goa was logical, given its year-round appeal and varied landscapes.”
