Samode Palace, Samode, near Jaipur, Rajasthan - Explore & Book

"If you get the feeling that you’re wandering through a movie set whilst at Samode Palace, that’s probably because you are. This 150-year-old Rajasthani abode has been the backdrop to numerous Bollywood movies, as well as Raj-romance classic, ‘The Far Pavillions’. The building stands in serene, sprawling splendour on a hilltop at the end of a dusty road, an hour's drive from Jaipur. A magnificent example of Rajput-Mughal architecture, it boasts some of the finest frescoes and mirror-work in Rajasthan. We came for rest and recuperation and found ourselves on our own Royal Progress through endless wings, terraces, courtyards and levels, marvelling at lavish creations like the extravagantly painted Durbar Hall and breathtaking Sheesh Mahal. Twisting staircases and painted corridors open up to spacious rooms and suites, which have a timeless, elegant charm. After a day's sightseeing, you can explore the tranquil garden, unwind with an Ayurvedic massage in the spa, or sink a sundowner by one of the 2 pools. At dusk, the twinkling palace lights illuminate the darkness and inject plenty of romantic appeal to alfresco dinners in the flower-scented courtyards or feasts in the fine-dining restaurant. Wander through the manicured ground or peruse an impressive classic car collection: if you've ever wanted to play out childhood fantasies of living like a king or queen, Samode Palace is the place to do it. Highs The palace has been meticulously restored to accentuate the wonderful architecture and grand scale, with amazing mosaics and frescoes Camel safaris in the bush at sunset are an unforgettable experienceThis is an ideal place to rejuvenate and relax, with Ayurvedic treatments, Balinese massages, a sauna and a steam roomThe wine list is superb, and the terrace by the rooftop infinity pool is a magical place to savour a drink Honeymooners will adore the sumptuous Royal Suites, with their private balconies, dining rooms, and outdoor Jacuzzis Lows Visiting groups and gala dinners can make it feel impersonal at times, though non-guests can't use the rooftop pool or the fine-dining restaurantThere’s nowhere else to visit in the area, and some of the extras seem expensiveSome of the Deluxe Rooms can be dark - opt for a suiteSome consider it to be more commercialised than other heritage hotels, and we've heard reports of staff encouraging guests to buy their families' wares" - Nadine Mellor