The first three lodges in the Six Senses Bhutan collection will open in November, with the remaining two set to debut in early 2019. Set in the western and central valleys of Bhutan, each lodge has its own character, environment and experiences.
Located in Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Gangtey and Bumthang, the lodges will allow guests to embark on a ‘Six Senses Journey’ across the key valleys of Bhutan. Thimphu, Punakha and Paro will open this November, with Gangtey and Bumthang completing in early 2019.
Each location will have its own Spa & Wellness Centre with extensive facilities and treatments reflecting the valley in which they are set. Therapies range from hot stone baths in Thimphu and Bumthang to a pyramid meditation room and swedana treatment at Gangtey, to a dip in the heated outdoor pool at Punakha or treatment in a spa room overlooking the ruins in Paro.
The focus on wellbeing is emphasised with programmes that include Six Senses Integrated Wellness in Punakha to start with, Sleep With Six Senses and Eat With Six Senses.
Each lodge will feature a one-bedroom suite as the lead in room type, as well as villas ranging from one to three bedrooms. Architecturally, Six Senses is blending local design styles with modern luxuries, and all lodges are inspired by the colourful Kingdom’s reputation as the ‘happiest place on earth.’
Six Senses Thimphu is located in the capital of Bhutan and is a popular starting point to a journey across the country. With a design inspired by the grand architectural elements of a Bhutanese dzong (fortress) and reflecting pools in the lobby, it has been named ‘Palace in the Sky’ and is the largest lodge in the collection.
Situated between beautiful apple orchards to the north and young pine forests to the south, the lodge is perched on the valley hillside, with views across Thimphu Valley to a 52m high giant Buddha. Interiors juxtapose tradition with modern clean lines, incorporating wood panelling, whitewashing and natural stone.
Located in the nearby and relatively low-lying valley of Punakha, Six Senses Punakha has a more rustic style of design, replicating the feel of a traditional farmhouse. The design has been inspired by local farms and vegetable terraces across the valley and the traditional cantilever bridges of Bhutan, to create a ‘Flying Farmhouse’ amidst the Rice Fields.
Six Senses Paro overlooks the Paro Valley and is situated next to an ancient stone ruins of a dzong – lending it the affectionate name of ‘Stone Ruins.’ Perched directly above The National Museum of Bhutan within 12th century ruins, Six Senses Paro has been designed to maximise its surrounding history and valley views.
The final two lodges, set to open in early 2019, will be located in the central area of Bhutan between Punakha and Paro Valleys.
Six Senses Gangtey will be located in the quaint glacial valley of Phobjikha, famous for being the winter residence of black-necked cranes. The lodge will feature a large glass area overlooking the valley where these sacred birds roam freely. Six Senses Bumthang will be located in an evergreen pine forest, with stunning landscape and beautiful monasteries.
“Activities have been designed to showcase the best of Bhutan,” said general manager Mark Swinton. “The emphasis on experiences and service is brought alive by our GEMs (Guest Experience Makers), who act as guides and assist guests in every manner possible to create an authentic Bhutanese and true Six Senses experience. Meditating at the prayer pavilion in the reflecting ponds overlooking the giant Buddha statue across the valley; hiking up to Chorten Ningpo in Punakha; participating in local farm activities in Gangtey; treehouse dining at Bumthang; and a private dinner in the 15th century stone ruins at Paro are just a few of the magical experiences created for guests of Six Senses Bhutan.”
