This was my second visit to this property, and if possible, it is even more beautiful than it was several years ago. It is meticulously maintained. The entire staff, from the cleaning staff to the manager, always greeted me. The food was great, partly because they have a very large kitchen garden on the property. Somebody really loves horticulture; I never seen another MP Tourism hotel as beautifully landscaped. The grounds are quite large and there is a spotless swimming pool. There are a number of heritage structures mixed in with the cottages and tents. My cottage had a small lawn space in front of it and a porch which was a treat for sitting in the morning sun. Plus AC, fridge, small electric heater, cable TV, hot water. It is just steps away from the river. The higher cottages have great views of the river and temples. A true gem.

This must be one of the worst establishments that I have ever stayed in, in my life. We booked our trip to India through Explore Uk, who then subcontracted the trip to Sea & Sky India. I realize now how it works with India, everyone makes out of the tourist. We arrived at this flea pit for 2 nights, the gardens looked so good that I was initially impressed. once we were shown to our room, this first impression changed. The rooms were dirty, smelly. the bed had someone else's hair in it, the toilet had urine mould. I am still waiting for someone to clean the room!

On the first evening we eat in the hotel, the food was disgusting and we sent most of it back before heading back into town to eat somewhere local that was recommended by Lonely Planet.

We had paid for breakfast, there was no breakfast; no juice, fruit, warm dal, tea anything. I complained and demanded that food was brought to us. They tried to get us to pay extra for old cereal- I refused.

I had dropped off washing the first evening having been told that it would be 5 rupies per item. When I got it back they tried to charge 50 rupies per item for some and 10 for others. I shouted rather a lot, and the fee was instantly reduced.

The most awful place, don't go and don't let your tour Agent tell you that it is Ok- they are lying as they get back handers and discounts from the management.

This was the nicest lodging I stayed at in a 28 day budget tour of India. I believe the property is run by the MP state tourism development board.

On arrival in Orchha our driver took us to two hotels both offering reasonable value rooms that were a little on the dark side for our liking. As we had planned to stay in Orchha for about a week we wanted to find accommodation that was comfortable, relaxing and at a reasonable price. When our driver took us to the Betwa Retreat our spirits flagged as we assumed we would not be able to afford somewhere as beautiful as this. Fortunately, the Swiss tents offered by the hotel were not only within our budget, they were very comfortable and somewhere it would be easy to stay for an extended period.

The Retreat is situated close to the Betwa River and a five minute walk to the town centre; just far enough to be away from the noise of this laid back town. The accommodation is situated in well maintained gardens and a swimming pool has recently been added. There is also a small vegetable garden, produce from which is used in meals at the Retreat. Free Wi-fi is available (internet connection notwithstanding) in the seating area outside the General Manager’s office.

There are three types of accommodation. The Swiss tents are the cheapest, but are good value for money with plenty of space, a TV, a fridge and a heater for the surprisingly cold winter nights. Showers are roomy and there is 24 hour hot water. Each tent has a terrace with two chairs and a table for relaxing. The Cottages look comfortable and were well priced. The hotel also offers a Heritage room in a converted historical building. This is more expensive but very attractive and has its own garden with a seating area with views of the river.

The restaurant offers a limited menu but food is good and reasonably priced. Like many other restaurants catering for tourists they play safe, but they were quite happy to spice up our food when requested.

Staff at the Retreat are very professional but friendly. Mr Rana, the General Manager, runs the hotel very efficiently and is very enthusiastic and rightly proud of the hotel.

Please be advised that if you are offered a drink upon arrival you should be aware that this is not a complimentary drink and it will be included on your bill.

The hotel is in a good location for walking. Across the bridge there is a nature reserve which offers a number of walks although the authorities don’t provide any information to help tourists despite levying an entrance fee of Rs150. No guides are available but this is a good way of getting away from the ‘crowds’. We also walked to the village of Ganj and recommend going onto the walls surrounding the village as this offers good views of the countryside. This walk can be done for free!

We would definitely recommend the Betwa Retreat especially if you want a few days respite from the hassles of the larger Indian cities.