15 December 2016

Six Senses Bhutan experience to be available in 2017

Source: Six Senses. A view of Bhutan.
Source: Six Senses. A view of Bhutan.

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has connected five individual satellite resorts in five separate locations under the umbrella of Six Senses Bhutan. Bhutan is unusual in that the country had no interaction with the outside world until the 1950s and which only hosted its first international visitors by invitation in 1974.

With a total of 82 guest suites and villas distributed between five intimate lodges, guests will experience the heritage and hospitality of Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang and Paro in the "Happiest Place on Earth" from 2H17.

In the capital of Thimphu, the design emphasis is on culture. Interiors are modern with clean lines and an abundance of wood panelling, whitewashing and natural stone. Cultural items, handcrafted objects and intricate weavings are shown against this backdrop. Old solid wood is repurposed into table and bench tops, while handcrafted rust-coloured brick is used for structures.

Source: Six Senses. Bumthang Lodge Suites.
Source: Six Senses. Bumthang Lodge Suites.

Next on the circuit is Bumthang, where a forest within a forest has been created. Accommodations are set within woodland, with expansive windows that welcome the outdoors. Recycled old wood is used for furnishings such as lamp bases and occasional tables while uncluttered interiors let patterned timber walls and recycled wooden floors shine.

At Punakha, a region of fertile land and terraces, a traditional farmhouse atmosphere has been created. There are mud-brick features in the bathrooms, light fittings made from mason jars, woven bamboo feature walls and rattan items of interest.

Source: Six Senses. Gangtey Lodge Suites.
Source: Six Senses. Gangtey Lodge Suites.

The fourth destination is Gangtey. While maintaining the uncluttered lines and natural palate, weathered timber floors and accented walls have been introduced. Leather details appear in comfy armchairs and footstools, and hanging bottle lights have been incorporated. A feature of the Gangtey chalet is the bird-watching bridge, crafted from local stone and enclosed with expansive timer-framed windows to enable guests to get close to their feathered friends.

Last but not least, guests may visit Paro, the site of old stone ruins. Hewn stone walls and working fireplaces provide contrast with timbers sourced from renewable suppliers.