Ratan Villas, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Built in 1920, this sandstone mansion is approached via a lawned garden with the majority of its 16 rooms facing a small courtyard. It has been lived in by of a branch of the Jodhpur royal family for more than 90 years and their descendants have recently converted the property into a hotel so that they can now invite guests to join them in their home. The charm of Ratan Vilas, lies in its simplicity, understated and yet comfortable. It is a charming heritage hotel where you will be given a genuine welcome and personal service, the attention is in the detailing here and that is just one of the reasons of it’s success as one of Jodhpurs best loved, charming boutique hotels. Its history is preserved with the old photographs, polo memorabilia and antiques which adorn the drawing and dining rooms while the guest rooms are furnished with period pieces and local block-printed fabrics. After a day spent sightseeing in Jodhpur or its surrounding villages, it is a nice place to return and take a dip in the swimming pool or relax in an easy chair on the lawn. On a warm evening the candle-lit courtyard is a pretty place to enjoy a meal prepared to family recipes. Although set well back from the road, due to the property’s location, you might hear traffic and trains passing by during the night, so bring ear plugs if you are a light sleeper.