Where to position curtain pole for unconventional window? (pic)

[Boduryan]

Long-time renter, first time home-owner and I'm struggling with basic concepts like where to place a curtain pole. Our bedroom window is within a slight recess with a nice wooden surround (see pic). I like how it looks without curtains, but for the sake of cosiness and warmth, I think curtains are needed. Where should we place the pole - within the recess (I'd prefer not to damage the wood); above the wooden surround (means bespoke extra long curtains); across the top of the wooden surround, affixed to wall either side (I don't know that this wouldn't look silly)... ? Thoughts?

I'd go for above the wooden surround. I see the point about the curtain cost, but I don't think the other options would really work.

Personally, I'm not sure I would bother though - I would just switch for a nice blind. Change the roller for a roman blind in a nice fabric, and it would look just as cosy.

Above the surround. We have same round our doors and windows and when we moved in, the previous owner had put the curtain pole in the surround. It looked silly, not to mention they’d damaged the beautiful old wood.

Definitely above the surround.

Roman blind above the surround

I wouldn't bother personally, I think a nicer blind would work fine.

Otherwise outside of the wood. Ikea curtains are super long so might not need to do bespoke, could be an interim option at least.

I think I'd just have a really nice blind.

Thanks so much for the advice & opinions. On reflection, I tend to agree - I think some well lined roman blinds are the way to go!