Stay at 'Fort JadhavGADH', a 300year old Fort Hotel, built in 1710 by Pillaji Jadhavrao, is to be experienced to be believed! Situated on the shoulders of beautiful rolling hills located 22kms from Pune at a height of over 2500ft above MSL, Fort Jadhavgad lies in the heart of Jadhavwadi.
The Fort, spread over 25 well-restored acres, is a fine example of Maratha craftsmanship. 'It was built by a man who himself was as strong in mind & body as the structure he envisioned to create' claims the website. True. Maratha General of Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj, Pillaji proved his mettle each time someone dared the supremacy of the Maratha ruler. The catch line fits like a glove! (Fight, Tussle, Move Forward!)
What is impressive is the manner in which the architects have blended the ancient with the temporal. Many of the areas are new, no doubt, but donot take away anything from the old world charm of the fort. For eg: The ramparts of the fort have been left virtually untouched despite housing over 40 rooms! The plumbing, electrification, electronics & drainage have all been so well handled, that they do not come across as stark modern intrusions.
The Swimming Pool, aptly called Kund (Pond), and the Spa, are of particular interest located inside the erstwhile courtyard. Located at a higher most level of the fort, means no inhibitions for the swimmers! Also, the planners have retained 2 old neem trees in the centre of the pool. So also the other trees on the property..the old banyan tree on the hill or the couple of tamarind trees near the family temple on which one can enjoy a nostalgic swing.
The food is great, traditional service offered by locals is professional & charming and the overall experience for us was "We dont want to leave!"
The museum "Aai" (Mother) is a visual treat of personal collections, that only a formidable hotelier such as Vitthal Kamat can offer!
Moving Clouds offeres excellent deals at the property including day trips with a lavish buffet luncheon, although recommended is a 2-night experience to soak it all in. Pick-up & Drop services from Pune are offered too.
The Fort, spread over 25 well-restored acres, is a fine example of Maratha craftsmanship. 'It was built by a man who himself was as strong in mind & body as the structure he envisioned to create' claims the website. True. Maratha General of Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj, Pillaji proved his mettle each time someone dared the supremacy of the Maratha ruler. The catch line fits like a glove! (Fight, Tussle, Move Forward!)
What is impressive is the manner in which the architects have blended the ancient with the temporal. Many of the areas are new, no doubt, but donot take away anything from the old world charm of the fort. For eg: The ramparts of the fort have been left virtually untouched despite housing over 40 rooms! The plumbing, electrification, electronics & drainage have all been so well handled, that they do not come across as stark modern intrusions.
The Swimming Pool, aptly called Kund (Pond), and the Spa, are of particular interest located inside the erstwhile courtyard. Located at a higher most level of the fort, means no inhibitions for the swimmers! Also, the planners have retained 2 old neem trees in the centre of the pool. So also the other trees on the property..the old banyan tree on the hill or the couple of tamarind trees near the family temple on which one can enjoy a nostalgic swing.
The food is great, traditional service offered by locals is professional & charming and the overall experience for us was "We dont want to leave!"
The museum "Aai" (Mother) is a visual treat of personal collections, that only a formidable hotelier such as Vitthal Kamat can offer!
Moving Clouds offeres excellent deals at the property including day trips with a lavish buffet luncheon, although recommended is a 2-night experience to soak it all in. Pick-up & Drop services from Pune are offered too.
