RAAS Devigarh

Hotel review

RAAS Devigarh palace sits high on the hill overlooking the local village, valleys and hills beyond, just 20 minutes from Udaipur. Magnificent, mystical and magical this is possibly the best and most alluring palace hotel in Udaipur, certainly the most romantic. As you arrive the palace looms above you whilst the birds twitter around and you're welcomed by the team of staff. Rose petals are scattered over you as you enter and so your journey begins... Each suite is unique and modern, some feature hand-painted traditional Udaipur paintings, frescoes and murals. Marble is used in abundance throughout the hotel, especially in the large en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers and large baths, some with stunning views. The Presidential Suite has its own private pool and hot tub, but you don't need to spend a fortune here as the Garden Suites are great value for money and are in a great location near the pool and spa. As with all of the RAAS properties, the rooms feature the natural bath and body products by Ma Earth.

Expect to get lost, and enjoy it! There are so many nooks, crannies, rooms, spaces and views to discover. And expect the unexpected; the interiors change on a regular basis with modern flourishes and pops of colour here and there. Take time to wander around and find the mirrored room and stunning view points; it's a labyrinth with plenty of stone stairs leading to hidden corners.

Take time to relax by the pool (though don't expect it to be sunbathing weather between November and March) and definitely make time to have a treatment in the spa which boasts India's only pink Himalayan salt sauna. The therapists are exceptional and the list of treatments includes western and traditional Indian treatments — try the Manipuri back treatment for a soothing, yet invigorating pick-me-up.

Organic ingredients from the hotel's kitchen garden are used for all of the dishes at Devigarh whenever possible. The menu is extensive and includes Indian, Thai, Italian and International dishes, but if there's anything particular you're after, speak to the chef, he can conjure up pretty much anything! The dining room is modern with stunning views of the surrounding Aravalli mountains; wrap up warm and sit outside on the terrace for breakfast and soak up the positive energy and dreamy panorama.

Follow drinks in the Durbar Hall with a romantic, candlelit dinner, this is a place for love birds, honeymoons, anniversaries and celebrations. Having said that it's also a great place for solo travellers just to be and soak up the energy, views, peace and quiet. Devigarh is a great place to think, be pampered and indulge with exceptional service.

Lulu Townsend