Six Senses Fort Barwara

Perched atop a hill overlooking the small village of Barwara, this beautiful 14th century restored fort-turned-hotel is the newest luxury hotel in Rajasthan.

• The impressive 30,000 square foot spa, specializing in Ayurvedic treatments
• The expansive pool and hot tub area, lined with columns and greenery, featuring both covered and uncovered sections
• The outdoor features in many of the upper level suites ranging from outdoor showers, private courtyards or secluded balconies with a plunge pool

Originally home to a Rajasthani Royal Family, who still returns to their living quarters on property when visiting the area, Six Senses Fort Barwara beautifully blends the Old-World soul of the property with modern features—and of course, all the wellness aspects one would expect of a Six Senses. It’s architecture maintains original bones from the 700-year-old fort, including two temples and two palaces.

Upon arrival, a feeling of calmness and serenity immediately takes over. Strolling through the airy corridors, complete with tall ceilings and intricate archways, guests pass by numerous terraces for sundowners, yoga or meditation. The grounds are fresh, including several hidden courtyards begging to be explored.

The largest courtyard is home to the hotel’s expansive temperature-controlled pool, lined with beautiful stone columns, terraces, loungers and and greenery (making it the ideal place to spend a relaxing afternoon). Views from the property overlook the village, Barwara Lake and a nearby Hindu temple.

Each suite at the 48-room property maintains a similar style, but is unique in terms of layout and features. It is a suite-based property, so accommodations have a separate sitting and living area. All are decorated with molded white washed walls, rustic wooden floors and large windows. Some suites have private terraces or stone balconies with a plunge pool, while others might feature a small internal courtyard with an outdoor shower or large indoor bathtub. Across the property, traditional Rajasthani elements are seamlessly integrated with contemporary design. We recommend booking the rooms in the East Wing, which overlooks the countryside and nearby Hindu Temple, as opposed to the rooms in the West overlooking Barwara Village, which can be a bit loud (despite their sound proofing).

Guests can dine on Indian comfort food, Mediterranean bites and Pan-Asian cuisine at The Cortile, the property's all-day restaurant, or grab poolside snacks from Rani Bagh. Curl up with a sundowner at The Rajawat Room and Viewing Gallery, serving creative cocktails, wine tastings and more. Special private dining experiences can be arranged with a tailor made menu can be arranged (think: dinner under the stars atop the observation tower).

As is typical with Six Sense properties, there is a focus on wellness. The hotel’s 30,000 square foot spa is located within the original women’s palace and incorporates both temples. It is no surprise that the spa facilities are stunning, specializing in Ayurvedic treatments with a more traditional spa menu also available. The spa also features an impressive yoga pavilion suitable for all forms of yoga and meditation, including aerial yoga, as well as a fitness center and Alchemy Bar (here guests can blend their own skincare products).

Couples, or those looking to slow things down on a busy Rajastani itinerary and want to incorporate either a flop and drop or a wellness element to their trip. While just an hour from Ranthambore National Park, those looking to see the wild tigers would be happier staying closer to the park gates.