Dune Barr House - Verandah in the Forest

The Dune Barr House is a quiet oasis in the forest of Matheran not far away from busy Matheran village. It is surrounded by big trees with lots of shadow and not far away from the next viewpoints. The rooms are spacious in a historic style. The dining room with the long table and the huge terrace were impressive. We felt like Lady and Lord in older times. The manager was already very kind and helpful as well as the staff. Breakfast and dinner was rich and delicious. The rooms are equipped with mosquito shades but outside there were still less mosquitoes in November. We thank everybody for the nice time.

Barr House was incredible, its history showing in every nook and cranny. Speaking of nooks and crannies - I cannot compliment their cleaning staff highly enough. I suffer from dust allergies and was wary on that account, but despite Barr House being large and old, not a single sneeze was sneezed. I must also compliment the staff and the manager, Ratheesh, for taking excellent care of us, especially in proving us with the brilliant mutton pies. It was a lovely, peaceful getaway all in all - highly recommend this place!

The property is very rustic and vintage. Don't expect the luxury of 5 star hotels but still feel the grandeur. There are no wi fi in rooms which was surprising at first but realised it is indeed a blessing in order to feel calm and peace of this place fully. The food selection is good too. Homemade ice reams were great. And the hosts made us feel at home

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'

It was really a good experience. People were really helpful. Food was yummy. Stay was good. Only thing is to reach the place, it is little hectic as you have to take auto, then tanga or by walk from Matheran railway station.