Dune Barr House - Verandah in the Forest

We had planned this trip to Matheran for a serene and calm break away from our busy lives. Dunn Barr at Matheran is a tranquil getaway a short drive away from Mumbai. The property is located in the woods, close to Charlotte lake. Though it is distant from the city centre, it is definitely worth the trek. The food was good, the renovated refurbished bungalow had cosy vibes. The rooms were well maintained with antique furniture, and many old photographs, including an old map of Matheran. A special thanks to Rekha and Ratheesh for their hospitality and all the help they provided as one of us fell sick. All in all, we enjoyed our getaway, despite the hiccups.

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!

Location is good. All sighting points are nearby. Atmosphere is pleasant. Rooms are ok. Not as per the charges. Food is just ok. Limited menu. They don't serve anything after 10pm. No extra amenities other than 1-2 indoor game like carrom and chess.

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'

We stayed here from 18th to 20th July as a family and had a truly delightful experience. The 200-year-old heritage bungalow is well preserved and tastefully maintained, capturing the old-world charm of Matheran. The food was excellent—we enjoyed both Indian and continental cuisines, each meal thoughtfully prepared. A heartfelt thank you to GM Ratheesh Pillai and Ms. Rekha for their warm hospitality. Their personal attention to every guest made a big difference and ensured a smooth and memorable stay. Highly recommended for anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful, elegant, and historic setting.

This is my fourth time at Verandah. The best in beautiful Matheran, and no one comes even a second close. The staff is amazing and property managers Ratheesh and Rekha have made place so comfortable that you feel like you are visiting your own home in Matheran. They and their team of Vishnu, Shyam and others made our stay most memorable. The estate is beautiful, retains its old world charm and it’s located right next to beautiful lake and other beautiful scenery. Matheran is the crown jewel and it takes you back by few centuries thanks to its no roads and no vehicle policy. Only horses or pleasant walk.