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There are some places that invoke a sense of magic as soon as you arrive and Amankora Punakha Lodge is one of them. From the moment you set foot on the suspension bridge, bedecked with prayer flags - which must be crossed to reach the lodge - you know you're somewhere special. The converted farmhouse sits within an idyllic valley, a favourite of Bhutanese royal family, and the very spot in which the majority of the country's fruit and veg are grown. Expect a peaceful Bhutanese way of life (surrounded by orange orchards and rice terraces, no less), lazy days and a spot of hiking - but without sacrificing any creature comforts, of course.
From $850 person/night
The sense of history. The farmhouse has been sensitively and beautifully preserved, complete with traditional, vegetable-dyed wall paintings and stunning furniture pieces.
Take a trip to the local market with the chef in search of fresh ingredients before heading back to the tea pavilion for a cooking lesson.
The beauty of Amankora Punakha Lodge is it's utter remoteness, so of course it's not within an easy reach. Be ready for a four-hour connection from the airport.
Calling this a farmhouse might be a little misleading; it's really a rather beautiful, grand lodge that was originally built by a former Je Khenpo (chief abbot of Bhutan). The main building is the original farmhouse and whilst there's a real sense of history throughout, subtly-stylish, modern furnishings keep the comfort levels high. The lodge is also perfect for all weathers with a garden swimming pool to cool off in - and a steam room and log burners to warm you straight back up. Oh, and a spa, complete with yoga and meditation rooms and plenty of treatments.
The eight bedrooms are located in the surrounding villas, recent and much more modern additions to the property. They are all identical (as is the Man style) and impeccably furnished with a King size bed, armchairs, daybeds, and log burning stoves to keep you warm. Ensuite bathrooms have a deliciously large tubs to soak in and separate rain showers. You'll likely have to be prised away from the blissful surrounds when it's time to leave...
This isn't the place for high-octane adventure, and the focus is firmly on relaxation, with plenty of peace pastimes to get you in the right frame of mind. Explore the nearby forests with a gentle hike, indulge in a spot of restorative yoga, while away sunny hours by the pool, or enjoy a cooking class. And like any self-respecting Bhutanese lodge, you'll have a chance to try your hand at country's most popular sport - archery.
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