"Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations".... You'll come across this signboard placed aptly at couple of places in the last couple of kms of reaching "Essence Of Nature". And they are placed there for a reason! The road of this last patch before you reach the resort is non-existent and the drive is meant to thrill the most adventure-hearted, and definitely those words instill the determination to get through the absence of the road for the last 2 kms or so before you finally arrive at this resort..
Located atop the hill, and I mean nearly at the top of a beautiful hill, in the middle of nowhere, is what is the boon and bane of this property. Be ready to be cut-off physically and almost digitally* (I'll explain that towards the end) from the world while you are staying at "Essence Of Nature".
The service staff is exemplary, and willing to go out of their way to please you.
Rooms
The cottage style rooms with each one opening to a wide view of the valley and overlooking the mountains on the other side is the hallmark of this property. Sitting The rooms, restaurant and other parts of the property are connected by flight of steps replete with trees and some plants, so be prepared to walk your way around the place.
The interiors were well designed and very well maintained. The washrooms are also super tidy and the Kama Ayurveda toiletries added a luxurious touch to the stay.
There is a lot of construction activity ongoing here as they are expanding their number of rooms and constructing a swimming pool.
Activities
The resort plans out daily activities for the guests which for us included a movie show projected in the activity area at noon time and a bonfire with music and tambola in the evenings. In addition, there is a kids play area, some indoor games and a small area to play badminton and cricket.
A few minutes trek from the resort is the Bhona Devi temple, which offers serene panoramic views of the Himalayas. But during our visit, we were surrounded by a mist, so we could only enjoy the cool and crisp breeze amidst the feeling of floating in the clouds. Due to the weather conditions, we also couldn't view the sunset from their earmarked Sunset Point.
They also house a spa and naturopathic facilities, which we didn't use so unable to comment about.
Food
The dinner on our first night there was average at best. The cheese chilly was kind of watery and a tad spicy for our taste, but the staff was more than willing to change it and prepare it afresh. The dal was prepared well but the portion size left us disillusioned for the price we were paying for it.
Due to limited occupancy during our stay, we were served food personalized to our taste and service was prompt. The menu options were limited and the prices on the higher side, but overall the meals were decent, if not the best that we've had.
The Sunday breakfast buffet turned out to be best during our stay. I had multiple helpings of their upma along with the standard fare of paranthas, idli, vada, baked beans and toasts.
Also there's nothing in proximity to the resort, so be prepared to drive for at least an hour before you can find another place to eat.
Conclusion
All in all, the resort is ideal for those who want a laidback, relaxing vacation in an idyllic environment and simply want to take a break of nothingness. But it you are looking for a touristy holiday wanting to hop from one destination to another or be surrounded by people and activities, then definitely look elsewhere.
There's absolutely no network of Jio on this side of Uttarakhand, so be prepared to have a disconnected phone, if Jio happens to be your primary or only number (which was the case for our entire family). The icing on the cake was that the property's Wi-Fi network was also down due to some storm few days back, so there was neither a possibility of connecting our phone at...
Read moreOne of the worst places that you will ever visit in your life. Detour towards the property from main road will be the worst experience of your life. Never ever think of going to this resort with family it's made on Hill top and there's nothing to do there other than playing in the park and a sunset point which again is not too enticing.
Had to fight for basic amenities like Electricity. I literally had to write an email to their Delhi Office at 3:30 AM, as I was feeling hot inside the suite. I was advised to sleep with an open door. Best part is that you will be stranded in the middle of the night as landline intercom would not work if electricity is not there. No provision of emergency lights in the room. To add to it, there's a security guard who sleeps at reception during night and that too with phone phone's receiver put down.
RO water will be supplied in used bottles.
Menu in the rooms are mere a photo copy of the menu that is available at cafeteria. Drinks are not part of prepaid lunch and Dinner package.
My package included either a wine or Champagne but wine wasn't available and champagne that was served tonus was not chilled. Was advised to wait for an hour to get ice cubes.
Unclean faucets in the washroom with missing toilet papers.
The only moment I cherished was their SPA. Had a great and rejuvenating massage.
But it could not stop me from checking out even though a nights's stay was left to be consumed.
Would suggest to stay in a 5 star or an equivalent property in Ranikhet instead of staying here as the cost will almost be the same to what EON is charging.
If you still wish to Visit, please ensure that you do not take a car with you. Even if you do so, you'll have to ensure that the car should have good ground clearance. I had to step out of my car to remove debris from so called Road, so that I could take my car downhill without any damage.
One of my life's worst experience and would never want anyone else to suffer like this.
My best wishes and prayers for the travellers who wish to...
Read moreEssence Of Nature
Perfect getaway from City life’s chores Noise and stress, It is in the heart of Nature pure Air, serene environment, The bliss of greenery chirping of birds soothing atmosphere. The best is the resort’s built ambiance, cosy rooms with breathtaking view of valley, best class amenities. The Hospitality is par excellence the staff is friendly very polite and discipline. On one call all your services are ready and most striking feature is on call meal menu order, restaurant themselves call you at regular intervals for any requirement and cater to any customized recipe wishes.
They have “no wait policy” at the restaurant you come and the food is served hot and food is delicious with perfect combination of spices and flavor.
Overall it’s a place to be with yourself your family, this place offers something no App can give you.
You will feel like living a luxurious life on the edge.
For family with babies it’s safe with big lawn area for motor activities.
Weather is very pleasant warm cozy mornings and nights are breezy. Rooms are equipped with heaters to keep you warm.
This a perfect destination for People looking for a break from all 2020 trauma,
They offer Work from home packages with full facilities like Internet services Room services for food and other requirements Wide balcony with comfortable sitting model for office work.
Special recommendation for that extra personal level comfort and cooperation from Mr Sandeep GM, Himanshu RM and excellent service by restaurant staff Mr. Anil.
Star Rating - Ambiance - 5 star Food Taste - 5 star Cleanliness - 5 star Staff Service - 5 Star Scenic...
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