Samode Haveli, Jaipur, India

The townhouse of the Samode family, this is another gem, lying in the heart of Jaipur. It is home to some fabulous frescoes and, with its leafy garden, it is difficult to believe that from this sanctuary you can stroll out into the bustling city streets. As with Samode Palace, the bedrooms lie all over the rambling building and are superbly decorated, according to the owners’ impeccable taste – Rajasthani style at its best. Two of the suites are covered almost entirely in mirror-work from ceiling to floor and wall to wall. 'The exquisite new swimming pool, with a beautiful poolside bar and supremely comfortable ‘salas’, is one of Jaipur’s finest and is a draw in itself. Perfectionists to the end, the family are constantly thinking up mouth watering new menus and looking for new wines to stock – any gourmet would be satisfied here. The gentle and caring staff do their utmost to look after your every whim and, since the hotel does not allow groups, each guest receives constant attention and a sense of peace pervades the whole property. Waiting to welcome you, Samode Haveli is the only option for anyone wanting a heritage hotel in Jaipur.