Barefoot at Havelock

Located exclusively upon the famous Beach No. 7, the Barefoot at Havelock is the first and only ecologically friendly eco-resort in the Andaman Islands. Beginning in 1997 as a humble backpackers oasis on the now famous Ranhangar Beach, the then Jungle Resort underwent a transformation to become the flagship property of the Barefoot Group, as well as the number one rated resort in the Andaman Islands. As its name suggests, the resort favours the barefoot ethos and guests are in fact requested to remove their shoes in public spaces in order to feel more at one with the surrounding nature and feel the warm ground beneath their feet. Additionally, television or Wi-Fi is not provided within the rooms, and the remote location makes mobile signal hard to come by, so guests are encouraged to disconnect from the stresses of the technological age and return themselves to nature.

Not only does the name encompass the guests experience, it also represents the lodge’s desire to leave minimal footprints upon the environment. Noise and light levels are kept to a minimum, in order to avoid disturbing the natural inhabitants of the thick rainforest surrounding the lodge. So as not to disturb nocturnal creatures, such as the rare Scops owls which inhabit the grounds, pathway lighting has been omitted and guests are provided with flashlights to find their way back. Additionally, room service is unavailable and guests are asked not to leave food around in their rooms to prevent behaviour alteration of foraging animals, which have not yet become reliant upon tourism as a food source in this largely undisturbed area.

Accommodation is in the form of 31 thatched tents, cottage and villas situated in the grounds, all featuring spacious interiors, modern amenities and ensuite bathrooms. All rooms were constructed using sustainable indigenous materials offering a traditional and authentic feel, as well as reducing the environmental impact of the resort. Rooming options include Andaman villas, Nicobari Cottages, tented Cottages, one duplex cottage and the eye-catching Nicobari Villa inspired by traditional Nicobari hut architecture.