Nestled in the tranquil embrace of Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, the artistic villas of Luna Nova are more than just a retreat; it’s an experience of harmony where contemporary design meets the untouched beauty of the Himalayas. For someone who is always on the move, one rarely gets to experience properties that so niche and peaceful that you are instantly transported into a zen mode without even making any extra effort.
On an early winter morning, we embarked on a road trip from Delhi to leave the poor AQI behind and enjoy the bliss of the hills. As we crossed the serpentine routes and pine-scented pathways to enter the dense coniferous forests, it became evident that our destination was not just a fancy location to check-in for social media but a journey with an immersive experience to explore inner peace, creativity, and reconnect with nature.
A dream brought to life
The Luna Nova villas are one of the newly launched luxury staycations by StayVista, and it caters to discerning travellers who seek luxury and exclusivity. The curated holiday villas effortlessly blend art, architecture, and the simplicity of slow living into one holistic experience that will fill you with gratitude. In today’s day and age, true luxury lies not in extravagance but in the moments of quiet connection we so often miss in our hurried lives.
With their unique structures it’s easy to identify these pods from a distance, and they standout as “otherworldly” homes perched on top of hills surrounded by lush pines, spruces, firs, junipers, cedars, and cypress trees. The origins of Luna Nova are as enchanting as the experience itself. Created by three friends with a shared love for starry skies, this property was conceived as their ultimate sanctuary—a place that would celebrate the heavens above and the natural beauty below. From the moment we arrived, we could feel the mindful approach and labor of love that went behind creating these hilly homes. Built from a mix of glass and white concrete, the villas features three architecturally unique pods, each inspired by nature’s own geometry. The hexagonal, pentagonal, and triangular shaped villas are called Europa, Callisto and Demios, and are named after various planetary moons of our solar system. The exteriors lend the property a futuristic charm, while the interiors nod to the rustic yet luxurious mountain lifestyle.
The luxury of experiences
The trio villas encapsulate very unique design ethos by offering a host of curated experiences to align your inner energies and recharge your mind and soul. Perhaps, the property’s crown jewel is its unspoiled view of the night sky. Equipped with telescopes and an atmosphere free from urban light pollution, Luna Nova provides an unmatched opportunity to explore the cosmos. After the sunset, the three villas glow with a surreal beauty and one can stay out to enjoy the magical stargazing and nocturnal cosmos from the hilltop. For those who like to indulge more, imagine soaking in a jacuzzi with uninterrupted views of the snow-capped peaks in the morning or evening to unwind, especially as the sun dips below the horizon.
For the sunrise and sunset lovers, the 360-degree panoramic views are simply breathtaking. Every sunrise and sunset is an artwork in itself, casting hues of gold and pink across the mountains. One can also venture on a short drive from the property to the serene banks of Ram Ganga River, where local guides organize picnics or treks for an invigorating nature trail.
A culinary delight
The in-house chef deserves special mention for crafting meals that span a delightful range of cuisines. Whether it was authentic Kumaoni dishes that celebrated local flavors, or perfectly executed Chinese and Continental meals, every bite was a treat. Dining at Luna Nova is not merely a necessity but an event, often accompanied by the scent of fresh mountain air and the warmth of a crackling bonfire. And, as the pace of life slows down, the experience allows you to savor the small joys like picking fresh produce from the organic garden, flipping through a novel in a sunlit corner, or playing board games with your loved ones. It’s also a space that embraces both work and play, with facilities that cater to remote work while still letting you soak in the surroundings. For those traveling with pets, Luna Nova’s pet-friendly environment is an added bonus.
How to reach
The Luna Nova villas are 53 kilometers from the famous Jim Corbett National Park and 250 km from Delhi, and a road trip is highly recommended to reach there. The nearest railway station is Ramnagar Railway station (approx 66 km) and Kashipur Bus Stand is 92 km from where you can book a taxi to drive down.
