This chic Uma by COMO resort is set in the town of Paro with its surrounding pine-clad valleys and is only 10 minutes’ drive from the airport, a bonus after a long flight. All of the rooms and villas blend modern touches with Bhutanese wall art and intricately carved windows that frame the exquisite views of the mystical Himalayan landscape all around. The entry level accommodation is the Forest View rooms with king bed and a well-appointed bathroom. The slightly larger Valley View rooms have bigger bathrooms with deep bathtub and separate shower; all rooms come equipped with a minibar and yoga mats plus WiFi and TV/DVD. There are two enormous suites, with separate dining, living and study areas as well as a kitchenette but for the ultimate in luxury select one of the freestanding villas, eight of which are one-bedroomed and have a sitting area with traditional woodburning stove as well as a private spa treatment room. The impressive two-bedroomed COMO Villa has an outdoor hot-stone bathtub and an open air courtyard with firepit and all the villas feature private butler service. The food here is excellent; dishes at the striking circular Bukhari Restaurant are modern and light, with an emphasis on natural, healthy cuisine. There are tempting Bhutanese offerings as well as modern interpretations of Indian tandoori classics. The COMO Shambhala Retreat is sympathetic to the culture of this all-Buddhist country and yoga and meditation are offered alongside holistic therapies in a standalone sanctuary with steam rooms and hot-stone bath house. A gorgeous indoor pool with adjacent sundeck completes the picture.
