Ladakh, Indian Himalayas, India

This dramatically situated boutique hotel consists of 17 individual cottages set amid apricot and apple orchards close to the confluence of the Shyok and Nubra Rivers. The sense of peace is total: on all sides, towering snow peaks and vast mountainsides of ochre scree frame picture-postcard Himalayan views, which you can savour over pots of steaming Kashmiri tea from the comfort of your own flower-filled garden.

The interiors are light and soothing. White-washed walls, exposed poplar-wood beams and local stone create an earthy, traditional feel, complimented by modern furniture and hand-woven Ladakhi textiles. For families travelling together, cottages with connecting doors are available.

In short: the perfect base for village walks and monastery visits in this remote valley, and they’re big on sustainability too (solar-heated hot water and minimal plastic).