Six Senses Bhutan Paro Lodge
Six Senses Bhutan Paro Lodge, has been desgined to maximise its spectacular views over the valley of Paro and is well positioned to explore some of Bhutan’s most spectacular sites, full of hiking opportunities, historical dzongs and of course it is the location of Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery.
Known as the ‘stone ruins’, Paro Lodge is situated within the grounds of a ruined 15th century fortress. Arriving through the main entrance, the view out across the patio is instantly mesmerising. A fire pit is set up on the patio for guests to enjoy breakfast outside or to gather as the sun sets all year round, where Bhutanese would have typically come together to share stories.
The vast living room, with traditional bukharis stoves at either end, has the wow-factor on entry. Chairs are positioned to look out over the terrace, with the stunning views being brought to the forefront at every opportunity, making this a cosy spot to enjoy a book from the next door library.
The small, wooden bar, also tucked off the living room, has the feel of a secret den created especially for cocktail connoisseurs and maybe the odd whiskey lover.
Rooms
The 20 suites and 3 villas are designed to take in the same spectacular views that are seen in the main building. Finished in the same typical Bhutanese style seen throughout all of the Six Senses Bhutan properties, wood decoration adds a cosy chalet feel. The bukharis stove is lit in the evenings when the temperature at this high altitude can drop significantly.
Large bath tubs are well positioned next to expansive windows to take in the views over Paro valley while you soak.
Dining
The restaurant at Six Senses Bhutan Paro Lodge uses large, soft furniture to relax in at the end of a long day of hiking that creates a comfortable space to enjoy good company. The floor-to-ceiling windows take in the valley views while overhead candle-style chandeliers combine to bring a touch of Six Senses luxury to the mountain-top lodge feel.
Much of the produce served is grown in the lodge’s own organic vegetable garden, making menus fresh and constantly changing in line with the seasons. The chef combined local dishes with a western twist during our visit to create a plant-based menu ranging from kauai vegetables to an eggplant lasagne on a pumpkin pancake.
The outdoor fire on the wide, open terrace was lit for our breakfast, complete with hot water bottles and snug blankets. There isn’t a better spot in Bhutan to enjoy breakfast. And with a serving of buckwheat pancakes, almond oatmeal and local fresh fruits, this was a pretty spectacular start to the day.
Destination dining can be set up in the ruins of the 15th century fortress that the lodge shares its grounds with. While we didn’t try this, it sounds like an incredible experience to finish off a journey through Bhutan, with candles lighting up the ruins and musicians and dancers bringing some Bhutanese culture to the evening.
Spa
Education is the theme for the spa at Six Senses Bhutan Paro Lodge. Guests can learn the fundamentals of Gross National Happiness, the philosophy that guides Bhutan. A stupa is being created for guests to go a little deeper and learn the art of meditation or join for one of the morning and afternoon yoga and meditation sessions. Guests can also learn how to make scrubs at the alchemy bar.
Three single treatment rooms and one double treatment room take in the natural surroundings with views of the surrounding pine trees. The relaxation room has been positioned to look out to the sight of the chubjka ruins.
The heated indoor pool makes a great space to relax after a long hike.
A fully functioning fitness room is ideally set up for any work out with inspiring natural views.
Activities
Just behind Six Senses Bhutan Paro Lodge sits a small monastery. Our final morning meditation was held here with the resident monk giving us a blessing and lighting a candle for a safe journey home. After the many temples and monasteries that we had visited on our trip, this felt like a very appropriate ending to a magical journey through Bhutan and a final way to connect with the kind, welcoming local people.