Best Hotels & Lodges

Pause and let time find its own rhythm. The distinct scent of damp soil and the fragrance of blooming flowers transport you to a place where you feel reconnected to the earth. The Vembanad Lake bristles with life as fishermen cast their Chinese nets into it.

In the midst of this stunning scene is CGH Earth Saha Hibiscus Villa.

Resting on the banks of the quaint backwaters of Kerala, the heritage mansion is witness to over three centuries of history. Take a short boat-ride from mainland Kochi to arrive at a destination that has been home to ancient cultures. Soak in the understated grandeur of a structure with wooden roofs on which time slipped on, and magnificent architecture designed to transport you to a bygone era.

Built by Walter Harris, the famous columnist of the Times, it was the last summer residence of Glaoui, pasha of Marrakech. Villa Joséphine remains one of the most spectacular and prestigious properties in the Vieille Montagne. Neither Dar nor Riad, its Mauritian aspect, its balcony view over the strait, a taste of Cap d’Antibes and a scent of Africa make Villa Joséphine a unique guest house in Morocco which owes all its soul to Jean Marie and Joséphine Fisse, its last owners. The panoramic view of the bay and the Strait of Gibraltar from the old ramparts will take your breath away!

Perfectly positioned on the banks of the rippling Rapti River with Chitwan National Park as your UNESCO World Heritage playground, this 29-room wilderness retreat has mastered the art of discerning wildlife experiences. The Taj touch is evident throughout - from the spacious lounge dominated by an extraordinary chandelier crafted from 10,000 hand-painted Nepalese beads to the large Newari wooden door salvaged from a nearby Tharu village that never fails to spark conversation. Regional art and artifacts are thoughtfully interspersed throughout the space, creating an atmosphere that celebrates local heritage whilst maintaining the sophistication expected from this legendary hospitality brand. After days spent tracking the majestic greater one-horned rhino or seeking glimpses of the elusive Bengal tiger, the combination of wellness spa, health club, and expansive infinity pool with viewing deck provides the perfect counterpoint to jungle adventures.

Tucked beside lush forests with the famous Chitwan National Park as your playground, this lodge has cracked the code on making wildlife encounters both thrilling and ethically sound. The traditional Tharu longhouse architecture, crafted with locally-sourced materials and time-honored building techniques, creates an authentic immersion into village life without requiring you to rough it. Whether you choose one of the 12 spacious traditional rooms or opt for the full jungle experience in one of 9 safari tents, you're guaranteed front-row seats to nature's nightly symphony. The lodge's small scale means your experience takes priority over everything else - a refreshing approach in a world where bigger often masquerades as better.

The Jungle Villa Resort is surrounded by lush greenery and is located on the edge of the Rapti river, providing all residents’ splendid nature views and wildlife sighting from the property. At the northern edge of the Chitwan National Park, the resort provides comfortable amenities enriching your jungle experience. Blending into nature, the resort has wildlife views from the deck and rooms. You can capture a glimpse of herds of deer, the one-horned rhinos, the royal Bengal tiger, birds, and other amphibians and aquatic animals at sunrise or sunset by the Rapti river. The property is located half an hour away from the Bharatpur airport.

This great collection of 14 stylish suites – at what is possibly the first hotel with an ounce of character in Harar – is perfect for well-heeled travellers who are after some sophistication. Spacious rooms with pristine bathroom and balcony are awash with calming tones, boldly accented by carpet or laminate floors and lavish furniture.