Fleewinter

The three-star Kivekas Hotel looks more like a mountain lodge, reflecting its awe-inspiring setting overlooking the towering peaks that surround Khorog. Pine panels in warm tones decorate the walls and ceilings, giant rugs carpet wooden floors and tall windows gaze out over rugged mountain scenes. It’s a real charmer.

Kivekas Hotel has that away-from-it-all feel about it, but sightseeing in Khorog is still within easy reach by car. Take a wander around Central Park (visit in summer and you can cool off in its icy river-fed swimming pool) and browse the weird and wonderful artefacts at Khorog Regional Museum, or jump in a taxi to the town’s Botanic Garden and hike up the hill for striking views over the mountains and town.

The modest rooms all have a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, air conditioning, tea and coffee facilities, a fridge and Wi-Fi. They’re also really spacious, which helps if you’re travelling with lots of hiking gear. Breakfast is à la carte and there’s a shared kitchen, so you can pack up a picnic for the day when you head out to the park or prepare hearty home-cooked meals in the evening. Room service is also available, and there’s a 24-hour front desk with English-speaking staff on-hand to help with anything you need throughout your stay.