Gangtey Lodge

Gangtey Lodge, previously known as Gangtey Goenpa Lodge, was the vision of Brett and Omar Melzer who run 'Balloons over Bagan' and wanted a similar project in Bhutan. The concept was to create a small guesthouse as a base to explore the area by balloon, but it soon developed into a labour of love and morphed into a luxury Bhutanese farmhouse experience with the help of architect Mary Lou Thomson. With just 12 rooms, it brilliantly blends traditional Bhutanese design and feel with all the trappings of a luxury boutique retreat. There has been so much attention to detail everywhere you look, and the fixtures and fittings have been sourced from all around the world - from the bathtubs which come from Colchester to the wood-burning stoves which come from Switzerland. With gorgeous local fabrics, exposed wooden beams and brickwork, Gangtey effortlessly blends sumptuous cutting-edge design with a local homely Bhutanese feel.

Each of the 12 rooms has amazing views over the valley below and some look out towards the nearby Gangtey Monastery, about 5 minutes from the lodge. The floors are made of hand-cut stone, and are heated and the rooms offer free-standing bathtubs, many with a view. Each of the rooms have wood-burning stoves. Local artists and masons have worked extensively to blend this sense of comfort with the artwork and carvings that can be found the local area.

In the main living area you will find comfy sofas surrounding two fireplaces and there are dining tables, looking out to a floor to ceiling window overlooking the valley. There is then a delightful terrace to sit and look out over the valley. Snuggle up under a blanket, cup of steaming tea in hand and simply watch the world go by or head to the hot stone bath to unwind.

Gangtey is certainly worth including on an itinerary to Bhutan, and famous for its nearby 17th century Monastery, local black-necked cranes, and fantastic day walks.