Nestled on the pristine shores of Havelock Island, now known as Swaraj Dweep, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Barefoot at Havelock is a beacon of luxury, sustainability, and immersive natural beauty. This eco-friendly resort, set against the backdrop of the world-renowned Radhanagar Beach—often hailed as Asia’s best—offers a unique blend of rustic charm, modern comfort, and environmental consciousness. With its commitment to sustainable practices, thoughtfully designed accommodations, and a deep connection to the island’s raw, unspoiled ecosystem, Barefoot at Havelock redefines what it means to experience a tropical getaway. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the resort’s standout features, sustainable initiatives, activities, and why it’s a must-visit destination for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the magic of Barefoot at Havelock!
The Essence of Barefoot at Havelock
Barefoot at Havelock is more than a resort; it’s a philosophy rooted in reconnecting guests with nature. Founded by Samit Sawhny in 2001, the resort was born from a vision to preserve the Andaman Islands’ untouched allure while offering a luxurious escape. Located just steps from Radhanagar Beach, the property spans seven acres of lush tropical rainforest, seamlessly blending with its surroundings. The name “Barefoot” reflects its ethos: to strip away the distractions of modern life and foster a deep connection with the land, sea, and local culture.
What sets Barefoot apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. From its eco-friendly architecture to its community-driven initiatives, every aspect of the resort is designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing guest experience. Whether you’re sipping Laal Chai (a local black tea) at sunset, trekking through the Mahua jungle, or diving into the turquoise waters, Barefoot at Havelock promises an unforgettable journey that’s as responsible as it is indulgent.
Sustainable Design and Architecture
Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Barefoot at Havelock offers 31 elegantly designed accommodations, including tents, cottages, and villas, all crafted with environmentally sensitive materials like wood, thatch, cane, and bamboo. These structures are built on stilts to allow natural water runoff, preserving the island’s delicate ecosystem. The resort’s five accommodation types cater to diverse preferences:
- Andaman Villa: Inspired by British-era wooden architecture, these air-conditioned villas feature timber interiors, four-poster beds, floor-to-ceiling windows with jungle views, and a walk-in jungle shower with a glass skylight. A spacious sundeck adds to the serene ambiance.
- Nicobari Cottage: Modeled on the Nicobari tribe’s traditional huts, these 380-square-foot cottages boast palm-leaf thatched roofs, bamboo matting walls, and hardwood floors. They include king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms, and wooden porches.
- Tented Cottage: These luxurious tents offer a blend of adventure and comfort, with four-poster beds, modern amenities, and garden-view sit-outs. Perfect for those seeking a cozy, nature-immersed stay.
- Duplex Cottage: Ideal for families or groups, these partially air-conditioned cottages feature two floors: a lower bedroom with a four-poster bed and an upper mezzanine with a low queen-size bed. A large porch enhances the communal experience.
- Nicobari Villa: Inspired by the circular community huts of the Nicobari tribe, these spacious, air-conditioned villas offer a private courtyard, plush furnishings, and a tropical island aesthetic.
Each accommodation is designed to blend into the surrounding rainforest, with minimal concrete and low lighting to protect local wildlife, including four species of owls that call the property home. The absence of Wi-Fi and limited phone signals further enhances the “Robinson Crusoe chic” experience, encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
Sustainable Practices
Barefoot at Havelock is the first sustainably designed and operated resort in the Andaman Islands, setting a benchmark for eco-tourism. Key initiatives include:
- Reforestation: The resort transformed a former banana plantation into a thriving rainforest by planting hundreds of endemic saplings, creating a canopy that mirrors the surrounding reserve forest. This effort supports local biodiversity, including birds like the Andaman Drongo and White-throated Kingfisher.
- Water Conservation: The resort relies on a perennial underground spring and rainwater harvesting from ponds and wells, ensuring self-sufficiency without tapping into local water supplies. Towels and sheets are changed only on request, and flush cisterns are modified to use less water.
- Waste Management: Organic waste is composted or fed to the resort’s piggery, while kitchen wastewater passes through grease traps and sewage is treated in a septic tank system. Regular beach cleanups, often involving guests, help remove non-biodegradable debris.
- Local Materials: All structures use renewable materials like thatch and wood, reducing the carbon footprint. Menus are printed on recycled paper, and landscaping avoids exotic, water-intensive plants.
These practices not only preserve the island’s pristine environment but also create a model for sustainable tourism that other resorts can emulate.
The Radhanagar Beach Experience
One of Barefoot at Havelock’s most alluring features is its private access to Radhanagar Beach, rated by TIME Magazine in 2004 as Asia’s best beach. This 2-km stretch of powdery white sand, fringed by turquoise waters and lush rainforest, is a haven of tranquility. Guests can stroll through a private path from the resort to the beach, where they’re greeted by crystal-clear waters and vibrant sunsets.
A highlight is the resort’s sunset ritual, where staff serve Laal Chai—a milk-free black tea born from the islands’ scarcity of local milk—while guests watch the sky transform into hues of orange and pink. This simple yet profound experience connects visitors with local traditions and the natural beauty of the Andamans. The beach is also ideal for swimming, with calm, safe waters perfect for all ages.
Activities and Adventures
Barefoot at Havelock offers a wealth of activities that showcase the Andaman Islands’ unique ecosystem and adventurous spirit. Here are some standout experiences:
- Birdwatching Walks: Guided by naturalists like Reuben, these walks through the Mahua jungle reveal endemic species such as the Andaman Drongo, Oriental Magpie Robin, and Cinnamon Bittern. Guests learn fascinating facts, like the culinary significance of swiftlet nests in Chinese cuisine.
- Intertidal Walks: Conducted during low tide, these early-morning walks allow guests to wade in knee-deep water and observe marine life like crabs, starfish, and small fish, offering a gentle introduction to the ocean’s wonders.
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Barefoot Scuba, the first PADI 5-Star Instructor Development dive center in India, offers world-class diving experiences in the Andamans’ coral reefs and wreck sites. Non-swimmers can try the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program, while certified divers can explore Ritchie’s Archipelago. Snorkeling is available just offshore or at nearby sites.
- Kayaking: Paddle through India’s second-largest mangrove network, exploring hidden creeks and spotting wildlife like monitor lizards and birds.
- Stand-Up Paddling and Trekking: Test your balance on a paddleboard or trek through the resort’s jungle trails for a deeper connection with the island’s flora and fauna.
- Swimming with Rajan: A rare opportunity to swim with Rajan, a resident elephant known for snorkeling between islands, adds a whimsical touch to the adventure lineup.
- Spa and Yoga: The resort’s Ayurvedic spa offers rejuvenating treatments, while yoga sessions amidst the jungle provide a serene start to the day.
These activities, combined with the resort’s naturalist-led excursions, ensure guests leave with a profound appreciation for the Andamans’ ecosystem.
Dining and Culinary Delights
Barefoot at Havelock’s dining experience is a celebration of local flavors and sustainability. The resort’s restaurant, modeled on indigenous architecture, serves a mix of Indian, Continental, and Andamanese cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and organically grown produce. Signature dishes include crab, lobster, and local fish, often sourced from island fishermen. Guests can dine at the Dugong Dugon Bar, a cozy lounge with jazz and lounge music, or opt for a romantic candlelit dinner in the wilderness, complete with decor that complements the jungle setting.
The restaurant caters to diverse dietary needs, offering halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served family-style, fostering a communal atmosphere. Guests rave about the food’s freshness and authenticity, with highlights like the “Laal Chai” sunset ritual adding a cultural touch.
Community and Cultural Engagement
Barefoot at Havelock is deeply integrated into the local community, employing mostly local staff and supporting village initiatives. The resort sponsors sporting tournaments, funds festival celebrations, and supports the local primary school. By sourcing produce, meat, and seafood from island businesses, Barefoot bolsters the local economy while ensuring fresh, authentic ingredients for guests.
The resort’s architecture and activities draw inspiration from the Nicobari tribe and British-era influences, offering guests a glimpse into the Andamans’ cultural heritage. Naturalist-led tours provide insights into the islands’ history, from their tribal roots to their role as a remote outpost in the Bay of Bengal.
Guest Experience and Reviews
With a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor (1,739 reviews) and an 8.8/10 on Booking.com, Barefoot at Havelock is celebrated for its serene location, eco-friendly ethos, and exceptional staff. Guests praise the private beach access, friendly service, and unique experiences like dining in the wilderness and birdwatching. Some note minor maintenance issues or the lack of modern amenities like Wi-Fi, but most agree that the resort’s charm lies in its simplicity and connection to nature.
Couples particularly love the romantic ambiance, with a 9.7/10 location rating for two-person trips. Families appreciate the spacious duplex cottages and kid-friendly activities like treasure hunts. Adventure seekers highlight the scuba diving and kayaking, while those seeking relaxation value the spa and beach proximity.
Practical Information
- Location: Beach No. 7, Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744211, India. 18.7 km from Havelock’s city center and 68.6 km from Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
- Getting There: Fly to Port Blair via Chennai or Kolkata, then take a 90-minute catamaran or 3-hour ferry to Havelock Jetty (11 km from the resort). Barefoot can arrange transfers.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, the dry season, for clear skies and calm seas. Avoid the monsoon (May to October) due to heavy rain and limited activity availability.
- Tips:
- Book accommodations early, as the resort’s 31 rooms fill quickly.
- Bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and sturdy shoes for jungle trails.
- Note that cottages are spread out, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Embrace the lack of Wi-Fi and limited signal as part of the digital detox experience.
Why Barefoot at Havelock Stands Out
Barefoot at Havelock is a rare gem in the world of luxury resorts, combining five-star comfort with a deep commitment to sustainability and community. Its location beside Radhanagar Beach, surrounded by a self-raised rainforest, offers an unparalleled connection to nature. The resort’s eco-friendly practices—reforestation, water conservation, and waste management—set a standard for responsible tourism, while its activities, from scuba diving to intertidal walks, cater to adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. The cultural touches, like Laal Chai and Nicobari-inspired architecture, add authenticity to the experience.
This resort is ideal for those who crave a meaningful escape, whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat. It’s not a typical luxury resort with polished, high-tech amenities, but that’s precisely its charm. Barefoot at Havelock invites you to step away from the ordinary, embrace the elements, and discover the Andamans’ untouched beauty.
Conclusion
Barefoot at Havelock is a testament to the power of sustainable luxury, offering a rare opportunity to experience the Andaman Islands’ pristine beauty without leaving a heavy footprint. From its eco-friendly cottages to its private beach access and vibrant activities, the resort delivers a holistic experience that nourishes the body, mind, and soul. Whether you’re diving into coral reefs, savoring fresh seafood, or watching the sunset with a cup of Laal Chai, Barefoot at Havelock promises memories that linger long after you leave. So pack your sense of adventure, book your stay, and prepare to be enchanted by this thoughtfully designed paradise in the heart of the Andamans. Your barefoot journey awaits!