Gangtey Lodge

With robust red columns, dry-stone walls and large murals of the landscape, the joint lounge and dining room feels rather traditional. Locally-grown ingredients are used to whip up three-course dinners including specialties like the yak burger with local Gouda. Although there's no official bar, the wrap-around verandah serves wine and tea along with lovely views of the valley. Enjoy a soak in the Bhutanese hot stone bath or indulge in the menu of treatments from the comfort of your suite.

Dotted across the grounds, the 12 suites have a soft and unfussy design. The king-size bed is decked out in muted colours with pops of red and heated pads are added at turn-down. The living area has a large corner couch facing the deep bathtub. A separate bathroom has a walk-in shower and wardrobe. In winter, the sleek fireplace bathes the room in warmth and the black slate floor is heated too. You might miss having a balcony but there are plenty of other spots to enjoy the view.

There are a multitude of ways to enjoy the landscape including cycling into the valley or braving the challenging route to Lawa Pass. Head out on a solo walk or a guided Gangtey 360° hike, which leads you through dense forest and flower-laden fields to reach heights of 11,100 feet. There are myriad temples to visit where you can share in a butter lamp lighting ceremony, take a tour of the monastery and receive a personal blessing. Join the staff in an afternoon of archery or see how injured birds are cared for at the Black-necked Crane Centre.