Tree of Life
Near Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
An intimate and luxurious spa-resort, tucked amongst the peaceful Aravalli Hills near Jaipur: a perfect romantic retreat
A 40-minute drive north of Jaipur - and only 20 minutes from its
most famous attraction, the magnificent Amber Fort - this grand
mini-resort features 14 stylish villas set on 7 acres of undulating
land, with a sparkling infinity pool at its centre. Brand new in
October 2010, it is the vision of founder Himmat Anand - himself a
perpetual, gracious presence at the property - who sought to create
a haven of bliss away from the bustle of city life.
A honeymooner's paradise, Tree of Life is all about romance and
offers the ultimate in privacy and service. Each villa
has its own 'outdoor spa' with foot baths and treatment beds for
couples' massages; 5 have a plunge pool, too, and the others have
private gardens. Inside, the living spaces are extravagantly large
and airy. While their design borrows from traditional Rajasthani
architecture, their feel is utterly modern: soaring domed ceilings
are painted vivid shades of pink, purple, yellow or orange and
inlaid with shimmering mirror work; furnishings are bright and
contemporary. Back in the resort, there's a restaurant for dinner,
but most guests just wrap themselves in robes and dine in their
villa, from a personalised 4-course menu that you design daily with
the head chef's help.
Reviewed by Kate Darnton
Last updated 20 February 2012
Highs
- The sheer romance of it all: your spacious villa, private spa area and plunge pool. Say goodbye to the outside world
- The serene location and utter peacefulness: all you hear is the chirp of birds and hum of crickets
- The proximity to the glorious Amber Fort - swing over for a few hours of tourism in the morning, then unwind with a swim and treatment in the main spa
- Or pop into Jaipur for a day, to admire the Pink City's buildings and snap up bargains in the bazaars
- Delicious, sophisticated food - both Indian and Western, much of it sourced locally
Lows
- Strict payment and cancellation policy
- Such indulgence and pampering doesn't come cheap
- The common spaces such as the bar left us a little cold, and we didn't fancy hanging out in them. The restaurant lacks atmosphere, too
- Staff are largely local and the service, while extremely attentive, can be a bit nervous and slow
- Patchy WiFi in the rooms
