Isfahan, Iran

The Abbasi is among the few properties in Iran boasting genuine historical pedigree. Built 300 years ago during the reign of Sultan Husayn, it was originally a caravanserai (the ‘Madraseh-ye Chahar Bagh’). Today, as the city’s most desirable address, it retains plenty of Safavid elegance, with graceful arcaded wings encasing a central courtyard overlooked by beautiful tiled dome and minarets of the adjacent Char Bagh madrasa (we always aim to ensure guests stay in the old portion of the complex, rather than the less characterful modern extensions). Citrus trees provide shade in the relaxing central garden, and there’s a delightful traditional tea house, as well as a good-sized indoor pool.