Two features immediately set the Sretenskaya hotel apart: a lush, balmy tropical garden with an informal bar and a quaint folklore-inspired décor. The latter sends you back to feudal times, to a wealthy boyar’s 16th Century home. The restaurant’s stained glass windows, thick royal blue curtains and carved wooden wide-back chairs also help to create a medieval atmosphere. All rooms have air conditioning systems, desks, mini bars and satellite TVs. A sauna, fitness centre and swimming pool are found downstairs.