Exploring Iranian Lifestyle and Culture at Kashan’s Boutique Hotels: Part 1

Come along on an 8-day journey and immerse yourself in the soul of ancient Persia. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us and explore this 8-day adventure, opting to stay in Iran’s finest boutique hotels.

Starting my adventure to explore the traditional allure of Kashan’s historic houses, I was excited to dive into the rich culture and heritage of this charming town. A friend suggested I skip regular hotels and opt for the cozy boutique hotels scattered around Kashan. He assured me these places would offer a deeper connection to Iranian life, urging me to uncover the tales tucked within the walls of these old-style homes.

With his advice in mind, I set off to experience Kashan through its boutique hotels, each promising a unique and memorable stay. Thus, I spent each night of my trip in three different boutique hotels, eager to uncover the magic they held within.

Sayeh Saray Hostel

For my first night in Kashan, I decided to book a cozy boutique hotel that felt like a welcoming home. The charming ambiance of the historic neighborhood enveloped Sayeh Saray Hostel, filling the air with a sense of relaxation and warmth.

As I strolled down the alley, I was captivated by the timeless atmosphere, feeling as though I had stepped into a scene from the past. Upon entering the hostel, I was greeted by the friendly smiles of the personnel, who welcomed me in true Iranian fashion. The atmosphere exuded a comforting blend of coziness, friendliness, and intimacy, making me feel right at home.

After checking in, I was escorted to my room by a helpful personnel member, who made me feel more like a guest of the house than a visitor. My room, situated on the upper floor, had a humble charm that reminded me of being welcomed into the home of a dear Iranian friend’s great-grandmother.

Before settling in, I took a moment to admire the tranquil courtyard, where a small blue basin added a touch of serenity amidst the vibrant flowers and earthy tiles.

The Story of Sayeh Saray

During my stay at Sayeh Saray, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the rich history of this traditional hostel, feeling like I had stepped into a bygone era. What fascinated me most was learning about the centuries-old customs that had been practiced within its walls.

The hostel comprises two main rooms: the Qajar room, where the master of the house and his wife once resided, and the Pahlavi room, where their son and his wife lived. This tradition had been upheld for over three hundred years, with each generation following in the footsteps of their predecessors.

The host shared with me that the house itself was more than three centuries old, originally belonging to a middle-class family who were involved in dyeing cotton yarn for generations. She recounted how every wall and brick held a multitude of memories, from the laughter of guests to the shared moments of the neighborhood’s inhabitants.

The narrow lanes and close-knit community fostered a sense of intimacy among neighbors, who would gather on rooftops to reminisce about days gone by. The name “Sayeh Saray,” meaning “the House of Shadow,” seemed fitting, evoking the cool respite and comforting shade it provided during the hot summer days.

Sourijan Boutique Hotel

On my second night in Kashan, I found myself at Sourijan Boutique Hotel, a charmingly renovated traditional house not far from my previous accommodation. This boutique hotel exuded an elegance that surpassed the simplicity of Sayeh Saray Hostel, captivating me with its unique architecture.

As I crossed the threshold, I ascended to the balcony, immediately struck by the elevated view of the courtyard below. Enclosed by magnificent walls on all sides, the yard exuded a serene ambiance, perfect for savoring a cup of tea amidst the invisible melodies of traditional Iranian music. The tranquil scene painted a vivid picture of the idyllic evenings awaiting guests.

Sourijan Boutique Hotel’s allure extended beyond its architectural splendor, promising delightful surprises around every corner. Although I’m eager to delve into the untold stories that linger within these walls, I must first mention the rooftop experience at Sourijan. From this vantage point, under the expansive night sky free from towering buildings, one can relish the tranquility of the moment, feeling a profound connection with the city’s ancient past as the stars twinkle overhead.

Tales of Qajar Art

During a late-night stroll on the rooftop, I had the pleasure of meeting the manager of Sourijan Boutique Hotel, who graciously invited me for tea and shared insights into this enchanting establishment. She explained that Sourijan translates to “a place for celebration” and provided a glimpse into the rich history of this 300-year-old building.

Originally owned by the Golian family for centuries, the architectural intricacies of Sourijan date back to the Qajar era. She mentioned that many stories are depicted in the Qajar-style paintings adorning the walls, and they were fortunate to have Mr. Helli, a renowned architect involved in the restoration, who had also worked on preserving the cultural heritage of Ameriha House.

The next morning, as I awoke, I found myself smiling at the sunlight filtering through the stained glass windows of my room. The accommodation was impeccably tidy, cozy, and everything I could have hoped for. Joining the lively breakfast scene downstairs, I felt a sense of belonging in the vibrant atmosphere of the communal room, where guests gathered around large tables, sharing laughter and stories over cups of tea.

There was an undeniable charm that enveloped the space, fostering a genuine feeling of camaraderie. Despite my reluctance to bid farewell, I eventually checked out to embark on the next leg of my journey, heading towards my third destination, Saraye Ameriha, albeit with a heavy heart.