The Three Sisters Hotel, Tallinn, Estonia

A striking blend of old-world charm and contemporary comforts with a designer edge are the essence of this Legend’s Hotel. It’s easy to see why the Three Sisters made the Conde Nast Hot List 2004 as one of the 50 most stylish new hotels in the world.

The hotel is so called because it’s made up of three buildings, each with its own character. Little sister’s rooms are more private and spacious, looking out into the courtyard with their own entrance and incorporating the old town wall to give them a cave-like cosiness. Middle sister’s rooms are themed creatively. The piano suite has a grand piano and number 26 is romantically decorated in deep red. Elder sister is the hospitable one with a cosy basement wine cellar, bean bags galore and rather spartan library warmed by a fireplace. Old antique picture frames hang on the wall…the lack of picture part of the off-beat design. The 23 rooms are all dramatically different, but all seamlessly combine the modern with the antique. Flat-screened TVs sit comfortably alongside old fashioned, free-standing bathtubs. With only one twin room, the Three Sisters is very much a romantic escape for those seeking chic comfort and style with an individual quirk.

Private dining is available in the 14th-century Angel room or room service operates all day, to the music of your choice, if requested. The staff is helpful and discreet in an amiable and relaxed way. There is no sauna but it’s a scant omission in such an intimate boutique design hotel. A successful first for Tallinn.