The Retreat, Bhimtal

I had a wonderful stay at this 150-year-old homestay, which has been beautifully maintained to feel welcoming and comfortable. The host (Paddy aunty) was incredibly warm and attentive, sharing delightful stories and offering excellent suggestions on nearby places to explore. The service was top-notch, and the food was a highlight—delicious, home-cooked meals with some vegetables fresh from their own garden. Their family recipe is a must-try!||They even organized a cozy bonfire for us, making the evenings magical. Paddy aunty's responsiveness and hospitality truly enhanced our experience. Special mention to helper Ganesh for his service. And lastly the 6 dogs who every morning would wait for you to play with them. My toddler did have a good time especially with Tessy. I highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a blend of history, comfort, and authentic local charm.

3 months ago

One of the best stays in the region. We stayed on the New Year’s Eve. Padmini mam is a great host, food she served is super delicious. The estate is perfectly located amidst the nature. If you are looking for a quiet get away nothing can beat this place.

3 months ago

The retreat is an excellent place. It's a bungalow built in 1860 on the mountain surrounded by jungle. It has an excellent vibe . The place is very well kept. The service is superb. The owner is a great person.

a month ago

The best thing about The Retreat, Bhimtal, is not its old-world charm (even though it is a 150-year old colonial bunglow with a very interesting past).|It is also not about the location - a forest estate, off the beaten track - or the awesome views of Sattal and Bhimtal lakes from the ridge.|What makes The Retreat, Bhimtal, truly memorable is its affable owner and her infectious laugh. Padmini Smetacek, also called Paddy, is a great conversationalist with a box-load of stories to share - there's never a dull moment with her around.|We always looked forward to mealtime gupshups while feasting on her delicious food. A big shout-out to her son Robbie for his lovely pot roast and baked fish. Worth all the post-meal burps!!!|The Retreat is a great place for long walks and / or to curl up on an antique chair with a book.|The five, super friendly dogs that man the homestay bring in their own brand of hospitality. A treat for dog lovers.

5 months ago

It is a beautiful homestay, managed by a very hospitable and warm family. It is nestled amidst a canopy of tall green trees in a colonial banglow, exuding a serene old world charm. The rooms are simple, neat clean and elegant pl. The idea of the homestay is to let one time travel to an era where people were rich because that had enough time for themselves. The retreat is specifically meant for individuals seeking solitude, readers, writers, trekkers, bird watchers and foodies. There are hills to climb, miles of forest to walk through, beautiful birds to watch and to enjoy home cooked food. Padmini Smetacek, affectionately called as Paddy , who manages the property is an excellent conversationist who seem to know everything. It is a pleasure conversing with her on the dining table. She has fabulous tales to share and is ever ready to help. The family has a lot of pets that are friendly and loving. We thoroughly enjoyed her hospitality and will love to revisit the property.

9 months ago

The Retreat, a name which perfect because the homestay is a retreat from stress, pollution etc all other problems city folk face and a retreat into peace, tranquility and the simple pleasurable moments like a bird fluttering in the verandah of the house, beautiful sunrise etc. The place is situated a little away from the hustle and bustle in Bhimtal but it is just within reach of all the major tourist haunts. The property is a more than 150 year old tea estate, maintained and kept in pristine condition by the host, Padmini Smetacek, i.e. Paddy Aunty for most of us. |Once you reach there, she along with her very efficient staff will take perfect care of you. There are three rooms, you can choose as per your need. I think the best part of our stay was the presence of 6 furry friends, Bo, Pip, Hoshi, Bimble, Poopi & Tessie. They will come in the morning for walks along with you. We enjoyed lovely morning walks and hearty breakfast after the walks. The food is amazing , we were a group of 5 adults and two kids, we were treated to a wonderful culinary experience and not to forget delectable desserts made by Paddy Aunty, which we all relished. Paddy Aunty will help you plan your itinerary as per your needs and interests, even if you don't want to go anywhere, the place with its relaxed vibe, vast collections and cozy nooks and corners will make you relax. All in all , if you want your holiday to be enjoyable, relaxed and stress free for you and your kids just go to the Retreat and see for yourself. I can't wait to go again !!

10 months ago

The Retreat is a small home stay located close to Bhim Tal lake. Once you reach Bhimtal, you will still have to climb and travel on a small road which takes you to this property. The place has 3 large rooms/suites and you will have to book in advance with the owner - Padmini Smetacek. ||Once you reach the place, you realise how comfortable the place is. You can lounge around all day if you wish with a book (there is a small collection of books to keep you busy). Or you can take a quick walk to Saat Tal (takes about 45 mins) or to Bhim Tal (30 mins). They organised a Parasailing trip for some other guests who were staying at the same time as us. ||The food is awesome - all the veggies are fresh and the cooking style is unique. We also went down to the village to sample a “Pahadi lunch”. Again this was delicious. The best part is the desserts which are prepared by Padmini. All the food that is served is awesome.||I would strongly recommend a trip there. Do not expect a TV - there is an Internet connection available though. The idea of this place is to enjoy the peace and solitude (and of course, the food !).

11 months ago

We stayed at The Retreat during December and had the best time! It's a one of its kind place steeped in history which you only get to know of if you start reading on it or probe the hosts about. Every guest is treated with only warmth and kindness by Paddy, her sons and staff. They go above and beyond to make sure your stay is comfortable and you get what you want from the holiday. The highlight of the stay is definitely the unbelievable food (especially the salads and desserts!) cooked lovingly by Paddy and her son. Thank you for such a memorable stay, the delicious carrot cake you made for my husband's birthday and the delicious lunch you packed up for our journey back home. Can't wait to be back!

a year ago