Introduction

Built in 1881, the Mahabaleshwar Club offers a peaceful retreat for those wanting to get away from it all. The Club offers many recreational facilities, including a badminton court and mini golf course. At a nominal fee, non-members can enjoy the facilities available of the club. For the tourists who want to be out enjoying the salubrious climate, the club has a jogging track encircling the premises and flanked by colorful rose bushes. The Club also offers a panoramic view of the Venna Lake below. Every year, Christmas is celebrated here with much zeal and aplomb by the club members. The Club consists of the Frere Hall which was built in 1864. It has a stark resemblance to an English post office with its Gothic architecture style dotted with leaded lights and stone tracery. It is designed as a library, meeting hall and theatre.

Spread over 66 acres of lush green gardens, foods, meandering meadows and a complex of residential and recreational buildings, the Club is one of the last remaining relics of a bygone way of life. For the British, and indeed for the many administrative officers that followed, a quiet evening at the club was often the routine. To complement that way of life, the Club has all the facilities needed: rooms for residence, dining hall, restaurant, bar, games like billiards, poll, carom, chess, and table tennis. While the most active could enjoy a game of tennis of badminton, or even spend an evening exploring the many shaded pathways that wind around the club grounds.

A visit to the Club is a rare chance to partake in a gentler way of life, to stop and enjoy the surrounding while you appreciate the time at leisure. While here, you pay special attention well-preserved heritage structure, the many small touches of old world charm, and the majestic red-brick structure that is now 125 years old.

Special Attributes

A preferred activity hub with the tourists who prefer to add zing to their fill of nature.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Located at the heart of the city. 2 km from the ST bus station. You can cab it till the club or walk it down.

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Minimal

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Plan a visit in the evening. It will give you a chance to mingle with the local gentry.

Type of site

Club