The Barns Resort, Bhimtal

The Barns Resort is at Dungsil on the Bhimtal Road, about a 15-minute walk (1.5 km) from Bhimtal Lake. Kathgodam station is 26 km away, and Nainital is 22 km, close enough for a day trip without having to stay in its crowds. The name comes from the buildings. The resort is terraced into the hillside and built from stone collected on the slope, with pine roofs and vaulted timber ceilings. It feels more like a mountain homestead than a hotel block. There are only 12 suites, all with private balconies facing the hills. Couples usually take the Balcony or Mountain View suites. Families go for the room with an attic, which children usually take over as their own. Days here are slow. You have tea on the rooftop terrace in the evening, Kumaoni food from the kitchen, and a bonfire once the air turns cold. Boating on the lake and the island aquarium are a short walk down, and the surrounding oak and pine forest is good for birdwatching in the mornings. This is a place for people who want a quiet lake-country break in the Kumaon hills. If you’re looking for a pool-and-spa resort, this isn’t it.