Six Senses Fort Barwara
Ranthambore

A 14th century fort that has been loving restored and converted into a beautiful 48-suite resort in rural Rajasthan, it offers both a serene escape into the countryside and a perfect base for exploring the local temples and palaces. What's more, being only a 30-minute drive from Ranthambore National Park, it is ideal for history lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Previously owned by the Rajasthani royal family, the complex itself is beguiling with original features of Mughal architecture and grandeur of a bygone era. Within the walled site are not only well-appointed facilities one might expect of a 5-star property, but it is also home to a palace and two temples. So just a short wander outside your room will find you in historically-significant surroundings. You will feel like you have stepped back in time.

The facilities include two swimming pools, a fitness centre and spa providing traditional Ayurvedic treatments and personal wellness programmes, a retail boutique, banqueting halls, and a children's club, which makes this a great option for families, catering to all ages.

This is an all-suite property, with the starting category a one-bedroom suite, and then five specialty suites all within the historic fort's walls. The design is reminiscent of regal India and one can imagine how it would have looked when members of the royal family roamed the courtyards. While the style is undeniably Rajasthani, the rooms have a contemporary edge and all come with state-of-the-art technology for the utmost comfort and convenience. Rooms are spacious and airy with high ceilings, natural light, and adorned with luxurious furnishings, stone archways, leather and wood antique-looking furniture. The décor is iconic yet understated, and so tastefully achieved.

Suites are split into the East and West wings of the property. The East wing commands views over the rural landscape and from the West wing, views over Barwara village unfold. 

The dining options here are extensive with three restaurants; the main dining room is set in a leafy 16th courtyard and serves international and Indian dishes, a second specialty restaurant overlooks historic domes of the fort and serves seasonal menus from the region, and for a more casual dining scene there is the Poolside Grill. The Library Bar offers experimental cocktails, perfect for a sundowner before supper. 

The touring possibilities at Six Senses Barwara are plenty, with game drive safari into Ranthambore National Park, cultural guided walks into neighbouring villages and forts, cooking classes, destination dining including picnics on the Banas River, and of course the extensive spa and wellness list with their carefully curated menu of local treatments, yoga, and meditation.

Six Senses Barwara is a blissful sanctuary and only 2.5 hours by car from Jaipur airport, so an easy addition to a Rajasthani tour.

I dislike feeling at home when I am abroad.
George Bernard Shaw