Bandhavgarh National park, North & Central India, India

This is a new departure for Taj Group, better known for its opulent big-city five-stars than boutique safari hideaways. But they’ve done a fabulous job at Bandhavgarh, fitting out a collection of mud-walled, village-style huts in a style that’s at once rustic, elemental and luxurious.

Burnt-clay dominates the colour schemes of the interiors, which feature carved wood furniture, sculpted figures, textiles and adobe work by local tribal artisans. Soak in a sensuous curvy bathtub, or chill on the wood-floored verandah under the glow of a hurricane lamp.

Breakfast and supper are served on a bare-earth terrace under a mahua tree; lunch is by the poolside, or a picnic in the woods.