Amara Mountain Resort, Kalaw Myanmar, Kalaw

This charming property is located just outside of Kalaw, set amidst lush green hills and pine forests with beautifully kept gardens, including a private vegetable garden.

The hotel consists of four colonial-style buildings that look as if they have been transported directly from the English countryside. There are 11 rooms spread across the buildings, each decorated differently but all are simple yet stylish and spacious with wooden design features. Bathrooms have either a bathtub or shower and are modern and clean, and facilities in the room are good but not extensive – for example there are no TVs. There is, however, an open fire place in each room which can be lit during chilly winter months, which offers a very cosy alpine resort atmosphere rather than a Burmese hill station.

Every building has a comfy communal area with fireplaces and sofas for relaxing, and the restaurant serves fresh and delicious food for all meals. Take dinner on the veranda overlooking the hills for some incredible natural vistas and colourful sunsets. The staff are courteous and helpful, arranging bike hire for guests and tips for trekking in the surrounding foothills. Whilst the hotel is located a little out of central Kalaw town, it’s only a short drive away and you are rewarded with a peaceful environment in which to soak up the natural beauty of rural Burma.

Last visited by Nick Clark in July 2013.