Like all and sundry, my introduction to Dehradun was through Ruskin Bond and I am thankful that my expectations were met with when I visited the picturesque destination for the first time last month. The occasion for the visit was the opening of Hyatt Regency Dehradun, which marked the debut of the Hyatt Regency brand in the region. Located across 4.25 acres, the 263-key hotel is situated a short car ride away from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport. However, it is easily motorable from the capital city as well.

The hotel is nestled amidst the Malsi forest and the mighty Himalayas, with majestic mountainous views from every room. The architecture of the property is urban, with clean straight lines, and the rooms and amenities are designed to offer the best of modern-day luxuries to both the leisure and business traveller. The rooms available are across six categories, which include Regency King/Twin, Regency Club King/Twin with balcony, Regency Deluxe Rooms, Regency Suite, Executive Suite and Presidential Suite, with 24 suites also on offer.

The four F&B outlets have been conceived to offer a range of options to guests, with Range acting as the all-day dining and offering multiple options at a gallery-like set-up with spectacular views. The Malt Bar with its stock of premium tipple is great for those looking to catch a breather with a good view, while the Sky Pool Bar & Deck is for those who want to laze around at the infinity pool or just chill by it with a drink. Our favourite was Beyul, which specialises in mountain delicacies and is led by an all-women team. Each of the outlets also have the ‘Hyatt Loves Local’ initiative woven into their spirit, irrespective of whether you enjoy a steaming bowl of Thukpa or freshly baked croissants from any of their food outlets. Even the cocktails we had in the course of our two-night stay had local flavours and ingredients added to them — from a Manhattan with a twist to a range of mountain salts on the side for your regular G&T. Meanwhile, The Market sells locally retailed products that act as the perfect souvenirs. Executive chef Sahil Arora ensures that guests get to taste both the local flavours as well as stay comfortable with their familiar palate as well.

What’s a holiday without a spa and we made good use of the one available at Hyatt Regency Dehradun. With an extensive menu to choose from, we suggest going by the recommendations of the masseuses there as they are trained to understand your lifestyle and needs. And we suggest going into the pool with a chilled beer before your spa trip. The hotel is also equipped to offer other fitness options such as with a studio, yoga and meditation sessions. Plus there’s a salon that was in the making during our visit. The best part about the pet-friendly property was their resident canine, Lucy, who can be the best stress-buster during your sojourn to the hills.

The hotel greets guests with a traditional welcome

Meanwhile, customisation is key in the experiences on offer as the hotel promises to come up with itineraries featuring something for everyone, including the brand’s signature offerings such as Camp Hyatt for kids and other DIY projects to keep the tots occupied. Adults can enjoy trails and hikes, hold meetings at the boardroom or simply laze around, like we did. The banqueting space also ensures that the hotel can serve as a great destination for weddings and other events.

“Hyatt Regency Dehradun has been designed to meet the needs of travellers who seek flexible and energising experiences in pristine surroundings, and offers the perfect setting for celebrations, relaxing stays and everything in between,” said Harkaran Singh, general manager, Hyatt Regency Dehradun. He also explained some of their sustainability initiatives such as the bottling plant on the property, LED lighting, keyless entry and the motion sensors in the room to regulate power more effectively.

The pet-friendly property also has a resident canine cutie called Lucy

Meanwhile, Peter Fulton, group president — Europe, Africa, Middle East & Southwest Asia, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, who was present at the launch of the property, also laid out plans for India and mentioned how the region served as the fourth largest developing nation for Hyatt, as the brand plans to add over 3,500 keys and an impetus to local employment.

Pictures: Courtesy of Hyatt Regency Dehradun

Our lunch from Range's fare comprising local food

What: Hyatt Regency Dehradun

Where: Dehradun to Mussoorie Road, Ram Tirath Ashram, Kuthal Gate, Dehradun, Uttarakhand - 248009

Keys: 263, including 24 suites

Amenities: Four F&B outlets, spa, infinity pool, fitness studio, salon, banqueting and meeting space

For reservations: +91 135 6171234