Why I Chose An Adventure Themed Resort Over Mundane Overrated Staycations

On a rainy day, as I embarked on my journey from Pune to Della Resorts in Lonavala, I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of worry. The raindrops cascading on the windshield seemed to foreshadow my expectations for the day. Would the extreme adventure sports I had been eagerly anticipating be canceled due to the inclement weather? The thought weighed heavily on my mind.

As I meandered through the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, my anticipation mingled with a subtle anxiety. But as I approached the sprawling landscape of Della Resorts, my worries began to dissipate. The dreary weather only enhanced the beauty and mystique of the surroundings. 

Della Adventure boasts a collection of around 100 rides, catering to all levels of excitement, from mild to extreme. It promised to be the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers like myself.

Founded by Jimmy Mistry, Della Adventure offers more than just adrenaline-pumping activities. It presents a complete package, including luxurious accommodation, delectable cuisine, and even a 24/7 spa! The opportunity to unwind and indulge in comfort after a day of adventure was a welcome addition to the experience.

The Stay

As I stepped into my room, a sudden wave of relaxation washed over me, momentarily overshadowing my excitement for the upcoming adventure sports. The allure of the Jacuzzi and the promise of sinking into the soft, inviting bed proved irresistible, and I couldn’t resist indulging myself in those luxurious comforts.

Created by none other than Mistry himself, the opulent rooms at Della Adventure were a testament to his impeccable attention to detail. Every aspect of the room exuded a sense of comfort, blending elegance with coziness. The bathroom, a spacious retreat in its own right, boasted a luxurious bathtub and even an LCD television—a delightful touch of extravagance.

Oh! The Rides

After a rejuvenating power nap, I eagerly ventured out to immerse myself in the thrilling activities that awaited me at Della Adventure. As I approached the Rocket Ejector and Swoop rides, and learned about the record-breaking 1,250-meter-long Flying Fox, a mix of shock and excitement coursed through my veins. The adventurer inside me felt a slight twinge of fear, driven by concerns about safety due to the rainy weather and the sheer magnitude of these rides.

However, I resolutely held onto a famous quote that resonated with my spirit: “Fear is temporary, regret is forever.” Determined to overcome my apprehensions, I embraced the challenges that lay ahead. With a deep breath, I stepped onto the Rocket Ejector, ready to be propelled into the air at a height equivalent to a five to six-story building. The initial rush of acceleration, followed by the incredible swooping sensation, sent my heart soaring. 

I then moved on to immerse myself in a thrilling game of Paintball. As the colorful splatters of paint filled the air, my back became a canvas of black and blue (no pun intended).

The expansive list of activities continued to impress, including Zorbing, both on land and in the water, where I rolled and tumbled with laughter. The precision of Archery, the competitive spirit of Cricket, and the adrenaline-pumping ATV rides left me craving for more. 

But the highlight of my adventure was—the legendary Flying Fox. With my heart pounding, I prepared to be whisked away on a journey across the vast expanse. The sheer speed, the breathtaking views, and the unfathomable length of the ride left me in awe and wonder. It was an experience that I would forever cherish.

Food Oh So good!

With a growling stomach and a yearning to satiate my hunger, my feet led me to the enchanting realm of Cafe 24.

As I entered, the air was thick with a vibrant energy, accompanied by the tantalizing aroma of mouthwatering delicacies wafting through the room. The menu, a testament to culinary creativity, offered a delightful fusion of options that ranged from street food to pizzas and pastas.

The visionary behind this gastronomic masterpiece is none other than Sheriyar Rustom Dotivala, the Culinary Director at Della Resorts, whose passion and expertise shine through in each delectable creation.

I couldn’t help but marvel at the array of choices awaiting me. From the meticulously handcrafted chocolates to the delectable homemade gelatos that were bought to me at Villa Bistro — Della's finest Italian restaurant.

"We take immense pride in handcrafting our chocolates and creating our own gelatos. With every creamy spoonful, we aim to transport our patrons to a world of pure bliss,” Chef Dotivala shared.

With an in-house chocolate factory, they transformed the finest ingredients into delectable bonbons, chocolate bars, and more. It was a chocolate lover’s dream come true, leaving no desire unfulfilled.

But my journey into the realm of culinary delights didn’t end there. My taste buds tingled with excitement as I embarked on an unforgettable adventure at the Parsi Dhaba. With eager anticipation, I delved into the rich tapestry of flavors that awaited me. The Patra ni Machhi, a mouthwatering Parsi dish, dazzled my senses with its tantalizing blend of spices and succulent fish. The aromatic and soul-soothing Dhanshak, a traditional Parsi lentil and meat curry, warmed my heart with every spoonful. 

But it was the Salli Chicken that truly stole the show. Each bite offered an irresistible crunch, revealing layers of mesmerizing flavors that left me yearning for more. The Parsi Dhaba was a haven of authenticity, offering traditional Parsi and Irani fare that celebrated the culinary heritage of the region. From the popular Berry Pulao to the melt-in-your-mouth Chello Kabab, every dish was a testament to the rich tapestry of flavors.

And let’s not forget the decadent Lagan nu Custard, a dessert that epitomized indulgence, and the hearty Punjabi curries and kebabs that delighted the palate.

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