Dune Barr House - Verandah in the Forest

A 200 year old property now restored. Dune Group does the branding & sales. Hope the owner put proper intent in maintaining the property. The building structure, furniture, doors are crumbling. There is no AC, no WiFi, no Telephone network, no TV (Total Digital Detox). This part is the negetive if you may say. If they look into this upkeep then the cost of 9K to 10K per night is justifiable. Noe the positive if you can see - it's secluded in the forest without anything around for about half a kilometer surrounded by trees and tweeting birds. The property is very ably managed by a hands on couple - Rateesh & Rekha who stay in the complex. Rateesh seems a all-rounder and experienced. He has well trained a local couple to manage the kitchen and dish out Indian & Continental veg & non veg dishes. They serve a sumptuous breakfast that changes every day. The 3 boys/ helpers too are responsive and egar to help. The property has a old world British feel with a big reading cum living area and a giant elongated dining table that can accommodate 20 odd people and they give a nice candle light dining experience. The highlight of the hotel is the big wide verandah to the 6 rooms on first floor that have 'relax chairs' outside each room and also a well appointed central tea & breakfast open area in the verandha. Hence the name 'Verandah in the Forest'

We loved this magical place.  Arriving on foot in the dark, with a couple of porters carrying our bags from Dasturi point, it was like stepping into a novel from the 1920's.  Lovely staff to meet us and give us a welcome meal and drink, and Mr Ratheesh the manager who we contacted before we arrived was incredibly helpful.   The silence and peace of the stately building is beyond words.  It's not a museum because the people living there are vibrant and make you feel comfortable, but the furniture and fittings in that incredible setting are rare and special.  The impossibly high ceilings, the numerous unexpected little doors, the excess of space and light.  Not everyone might recognise why this place is so rewarding to stay in  - it's not a formulaic international hotel, but its a living record of India's complex history.  Don't miss it if you have the chance.

Dune Barr House in Matheran is an absolute gem.. steeped in history, beautifully maintained & wrapped in the charm of a bygone era. My partner & I spent the weekend here. The Heritage Supr. Room was a beautiful, with its poster bed, antique furniture & spacious 19th century interiors that made us feel like we had stepped into another time. The place is immaculately kept, blending old world elegance with just the right touch of modern comfort. The verandah, of course is the highlight. Whether it was sipping tea in the cool morning air or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings, it was the perfect place to unwind. There’s something about being nestled in the woods away from the chaos, that makes you slow down and truly enjoy the moment. The team led by Mr. Ratheesh, was fantastic attentive, warm & always ensuring that everything was just right. They made my partners’ birthday feel extra special, which we truly appreciated. And the food.. Absolutely delicious. Every meal felt carefully prepared and the flavours were spot on, homemade style Dune Barr House isn’t just a stay..it’s an experience. If you’re looking for a place with character, history & exceptional service.. this is it. Can’t wait to return.

Completely enjoyed the hospitality of the staff, especially Manager, Ratheesh, who ensured our every request was taken care of. He also arranged the sightseeing, our return travel etc very cordially. The resort is tucked away in the forest, one is away from the hustle and bustle of an otherwise hectic lifestyle; absolute peace and tranquility all around. No TV, No Wi-Fi, No Internet.... the good ol'days. We ate the meals at proper times, went to bed on time, woke up to the chirping of trees and the rustle of the swaying leaves in the gentle breeze. We really enjoyed being at Dune Barr, and hope to visit again with the larger family. A great restful weekend getaway.

Our stay was blissful relaxation in beautiful surroundings. I travelled there with my Danish friend on the miniature railway. Sat on the exquisite and picturesque verandah with the sites and sounds of nature for company was so special. The staff were extremely welcoming, friendly and helpful. We loved the food and anything we asked for was provided with a smile. Our room was very clean, with plenty of space and beautifully furnished, if you like antique style. We will definitely come again and are planning to return with our husbands!

Great place, food and staff, had a great expedience. The place was a unique heritage property. All the things were retained for many years. The service was excellent. The staff were very responsive to any asks. The food was awesome, especially apple pie, Puran poli, egg curry, apart from other things