While each Secret Retreats Member is a dedicated advocate of their surroundings and passionate about sharing special moments with travellers, our heritage properties offer particularly enchanting experiences steeped in history, design and culture.
Curious to discover the true essence of Asia? Start planning your stay in one of these heritage hotels with the help of the Secret Retreat Concierge.
Cheong Fatt Tze – Peranakan design in Penang, Malaysia
Owned by a lauded local architect whose restoration efforts sparked the preservation revolution in Penang’s World Heritage Site of Georgetown, Cheong Fatt Tze is one of Asia’s most recognised hotels.
Also called “The Blue Mansion”, the charming heritage hotel was originally the home of a wealthy Chinese merchant and today is a leading example of excellent conservation practices. The mansion’s 18 guestrooms are filled with 19th-century art, curios and antiques that pay tribute to its original owner. Surrounding tropical courtyards add to the romance and ambience of the property, and the onsite Indigo restaurant provides an exquisite contemporary dining experience.
At this artfully restored Chinese mansion, journey back in time and discover the hidden secrets, architectural treasures and ancient relics scattered throughout this magnificent property. Start planning your next trip to vibrant Penang and find the best deals for a stay at Cheong Fatt Tze here.
RakKoJae – Traditional hospitality in Seoul, South Korea
This intimate hotel with just four hanoks, or rooms, was one of 34 hotels featured in the 2017 Michelin Guide Seoul. The only traditional hanok hotel to make it on the list, this 130-year-old house is located near the Gyeongbokgung Palace.
The minimalist sanctuary is more than just a place to lay your head. RakKoJae showcases Korean heritage and traditions through its tasteful décor, intimate dining experiences and private culture classes. Learn how to make the Korean staple kimchi, participate in a tea-ceremony or delve into the history of the hanbock (traditional Korean garb) and learn about the many other cultural contributions of the Chosun Dynasty.
With a beautiful space designed to nourish your spirit, your hosts at RakKoJae invite you to not just visit Seoul, but truly experience Korean hospitality and traditions. Take time to unwind amidst tranquil gardens and atmospheric architecture on your next visit to this bustling metropolitan city, and get the best deal on a stay at RakKoJae here.
Chakrabongse Villas – Royal luxury in Bangkok, Thailand
The former home of a Thai prince, Chakrabongse Villas were built in 1908 along the Chao Phraya River. Though right in the heart of Bangkok’s central Rattanakosin district and just steps away from the Royal Palace, the villas feel worlds away from the modern day. These seven suites are awash in lush Thai textiles, charming antiques and detailed woodwork, and are each surrounded by a private tropical garden.
Luxury dining adds to the atmosphere of majesty and elegance with set menu meals featuring historic royal recipes. Private dining options are available in the grand dining room or on the outdoor river veranda which boasts an incomparable view of the magnificent Wat Arun temple complex across the water.
Relax by the river after a long day of sightseeing surrounded by royal opulence and welcoming Thai hospitality on your next trip to the City of Angels. Book your stay at Chakrabongse Villas here.
Jing’s Residence – Ancient architecture in Pingyao, China
Built 260 years ago by a wealthy Qing Dynasty silk merchant, Jing’s Residence is situated in the centre of Pingyao’s old town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pingyao is home to some of the country’s best-preserved traditional architecture, particularly from the late Ming and Qing dynasties.
Each of Jing’s Residence’s 15 guestrooms and suites has been carefully renovated while staying true to the residence’s original architecture and reflecting the region’s culture and traditions. Fall in love with elegant details, such as exquisite headboards made of lacquer and silk, antique Chinese washbasins, decorative clay panels and more.
Explore Pingyao’s ancient streets before retiring to the residence’s ambient chambers. Add on to your experience by booking a Culture and Cuisine Package, or indulge in treatments at the onsite spa during your stay. Discover the best of historic Pingyao and plan your stay at Jing’s Residence here.
Talabgaon Castle – Regal rooms in Rajasthan, India
Situated in the Rajasthani desert a 90-minute drive outside of Jaipur, this handsomely restored 150-year-old fort has a long history and heritage that lives on to this day – the property has been in the family for centuries and is still called home. As Rajputs, the owning family has a proud history as warriors who lived by a strict code of honour and hospitality.
With 18 stunning suites and eight guestrooms overlooking the property’s grand gardens and swimming pools, staying at Talabgaon Castle takes guests back in time to a bygone era. The expansive property is even home to its own stables and polo ground. While you may be tempted to hide away in this luxurious castle, unmissable activities nearby include camel safaris, horse trekking, visiting surrounding villages and temples, lunch in a traditional mud house on a local farm, and watching an invigorating polo match.
Experience legendary Rajasthani hospitality and enjoy the rural lifestyle and natural splendours of the dessert at Talabgaon. Book your stay at this stunning 19th-century castle here.
To get to know a place, you need to not only walk its streets, you must also look back in time and understand its history and traditions. While the Secret Retreats Concierge will ensure you get a truly local experience during your stay in Asia, your hosts at these heritage hotels offer an incomparable backdrop from which to explore the cultures and events which shaped these world-class destinations.
For more information, offers and bookings contact the Secret Retreats Concierge at dream@secret-retreats.com.
