Today’s ride was an absolute dream, a perfect blend of exhilaration and tranquillity. The crisp chill in the air, paired with the gentle embrace of morning fog, created an enchanting atmosphere, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Our destination was the beautiful Riverland Resort, nestled in Mangaon, roughly 110 kilometres from our starting point in Belapur.
We began our journey on the serene Uran road, winding through picturesque landscapes before merging onto NH 348B. The road was a ribbon of asphalt leading us forward, and eventually, we found ourselves on NH 66, also recognized as the Panvel-Kochi Highway, or more famously, the Panvel-Goa Highway—renowned for its scenic views and delightful turns.
Our first stop was at Sai Sahara Hotel in Pen, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the irresistible allure of crispy vada drew us in. We savoured our quick break, enjoying the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere, before feeling rejuvenated and ready to continue.
Back on the road, we journeyed onward and made a leisurely pit stop at the Shree Hanuman Hotel in Phata near Roha. Here, the tantalizing smell of pakoras and vada usually filled the air as we settled in for a delightful breakfast. We soaked in the flavours and camaraderie for about half an hour, laughing and sharing stories, before setting off for the final stretch to Riverland Resort.
The final leg of our journey was a breezy 45-minute drive from Pali Phata. As we approached the resort, the lush greenery and serene surroundings enveloped us, promising relaxation and enjoyment. Upon arrival, we discovered ample parking space for our trusty bikes and gathered at the restaurant overlooking the shimmering pool.
After a quick round of refreshingly cold sodas, we could barely contain our excitement as we dashed toward the pool. The water was inviting, and we spent about an hour diving in and out, soaking up the warm sun and letting the day’s stresses float away. Reenergized from our playful swim, we returned to the restaurant for an early lunch, indulging in a sumptuous feast of Gavthi chicken and prawns tawa fry paired with soft bhakri. Each bite was filled with rich flavours that left us satisfied and happy.
Once our bellies were full, we began our return journey at 1 PM. On the way back, we decided to take a scenic diversion at Pali Phata, opting for the Khopoli/Khalapur route. Our adventure continued as we made a brief stop at Tawde Snacks near Imagica, where we refuelled with tasty refreshments, bringing a sweet end to a beautifully fulfilling day on the road.
