We first visited several years ago not long after they’d opened, when the garden was still a work in progress. It has since developed into a lush tropical setting and along with the small but cute, irregularly shaped pool creates a real oasis. Just 20 rooms plus friendly staff and management adds to the cosy, intimate atmosphere as well.

Cute garden setting. Photo: Mark Ord

The location is an interesting one, off Arak—the western moat road—so inside the Old City walls, but in a quiet area away from the main concentration of accommodation and cafes. Most of the principal downtown sites are still within walking distance and you shouldn’t have too much noise to contend with.

Out front is their coffee shop and restaurant serving some locally sourced coffee and very good included organic breakfasts, including even house-made yoghurts. Beyond this are two floors of superior rooms with a lime green colouring, and a separate block to the rear containing deluxe and family rooms.

A smart superior room. Photo: Mark Ord

Of the superior rooms, the upper ones are inevitably brighter though downstairs ones do look directly into the delightful garden. Deluxe are larger with more attention to decor while the family rooms are connecting double rooms so, for a family of four, you’d pay for two rooms.

Interiors are simple, bright and clean with good-sized beds, TV, free tea and coffee, fridge, WiFi and of course air-con and ensuite bathrooms. Downstairs from the deluxe rooms is a small but reasonably equipped gym.

Cute swimming pool too. Photo: Mark Ord

The Twenty Lodge is an all-round spot-on midrange choice.