East India, India

Located amid the flat, riverine landscape along the Hooghly River, Rajbari Bawari palace once belonged to a Rajput clan who found fortune by quashing a rebellion on behalf of the Mughals. The present building dates from an era when the East India Company was in control of local trade and reflects the predilection of the period for Neoclassical architecture.

An army of traditional brick makers and lime plasterers were employed to renovate it in authentic style, and the results are exquisite. You’ll be sleeping in a room that resembles a Merchant-Ivory film set, with antique furniture and wooden shutters on doors. Village walks, cookery demonstrations and visits to local Krishna temples are on offer if you tire of lazing and gazing.