Dune Barr House - Verandah in the Forest

This is a historically important location in Matheran.  Ratheesh and his business partner were so welcoming and helpful and the accommodation is so full of character. For a truly “green” and unique stay in a totally unique location, the Verandah in the Forest is absolutely a must. This is undoubtedly the place to stay in Matheran if you can get a room - would suggest booking early so as not to miss the chance to stay here - and is so much more than a hotel. Food was superb and because of the size and layout, never seemed busy. Quiet and relaxing stay.  As there’s no phone signal in Matheran Hill Station I’d suggest contacting Ratheesh before making the ascent to the hill station for location instructions. There is wi-fi at the Verandah in the Forest. 

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!

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'