Northern Thailand resorts guide and online booking

Resorts in Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand is a favorite escape for Thais, especially during the winter season from November to January, when the weather is sunny, cool and pleasant. This, coupled with the increasing number of international travellers to this area, means that the range of spas and resorts in the region has really grown over the last few years. Located in lush rural settings among beautiful mountain scenery, these resorts are becoming an essential part of many visitors' Thailand holiday itinerary.

The capital of northern Thailand is Chiang Mai and recently, the city has begun marketing itself as the 'Spa Capital' of Thailand. In May 2004, it established the Thai Lanna Spa Association to try to strengthen this market segment, but also make sure quality remains high. Thanks to this effort, the numbers of spas and resorts popping up in and around the city are plentiful and there is something for everyone.

Resorts in the Chiang Mai area

On the top of the luxury list at present in Chiang Mai is the Four Seasons Hotel, formerly the Regent Hotel, located about 30 minutes north of Chiang Mai's city centre. The resort is nestled in a beautiful hilly landscape in the Mae Rim valley, with water buffalos plying the rice paddies near the resort. The super luxury Lanna-style pavilions start from US$370 upwards. The resort offers Thai cooking courses and boasts an award-winning spa, which offers a whole menu of treatments, set in a breathtaking Lanna style spa complex. Tel: +66 (0) 53 298 181.

The latest addition to the super-luxury set is the Oriental Dhara Dhevi resort. It is located on the Samkhampaeng Road (the old Grand Lanna restaurant complex) and will boast villas and suites only, with room rates are to start at US$600. In early 2005, the Chedi Chiang Mai is due to open, right on the Ping river, on the old site of the British Consulate. It will be competing in the five-star luxury resort and spa category and has the best and most central location of its competitors.

The Tamarind Village creates serenity in the heart of the old town

For those without bottomless wallets, there are still beautiful resorts to stay at in and around Chiang Mai, that won't break the bank. The newest elegant addition is the Ratchamankla, more of the boutique hotel than a resort, but definitely a contender. It is built in Lanna-style, with 24 uniquely decorated rooms and is the sister hotel of the Tamarind Village, which is located inside the moat in the old part of Chiang Mai. Both are well worth a stay or even a visit - the Ratchamankla also has a very nice restaurant. Tel. +66 (0) 53 904 111. The Tamarind Village is in more relaxed, with its 40 village-style rooms. You can't beat its location in the centre of town. Room rates start at US$120. Tel. +66 (0) 53 416 896.

Resorts near Chiang Mai

A little ways outside of Chiang Mai, in the Krissadadoi valley southwest of the city, are a range of resorts or getaways that are especially popular among the locals. There are many resorts to choose from, all set in beautiful mountain landscapes and lush gardens. The amenities vary from resort to resort, but most offer a free mini bus service into town, have pools and several restaurants. Two of the more popular resorts are Belle Villa and Suan Bua Hotel & Resort. Belle Villa resort is located 19 km (12 mi) from the Hang Dong intersection to Samoeng and offers a swimming pool, tennis courts, jogging track, children's playground and spa. Room rates start at around 2,000 baht and can be made by calling +66 (0) 53 355 318. The Suan Bua Hotel & Resort is located 22 km from Hang Dong and offers a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, children's playground and sauna. It also has a beautifully landscaped garden and walking trails for a leisurely day out. Reservations can be made by calling the resort on +66 (0) 53 365 270.

Resorts in Northern Thailand

One of the popular destinations in northern Thailand is the 'Golden Triangle' area, where the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge. In the heart of the Golden Triangle lies the new Anantara Resort & Spa, a super luxury hideaway set in the lush greenery of the Golden Triangle, within beautifully manicured gardens and with superb views overlooking Myanmar and Laos. Here you can experience the best of Thai service in a tranquil setting and enjoy a new level of pampering at the first class Mandara Spa. Additionally, the resort offers a swimming pool, squash and tennis courts and gym. Room rates start at US$150, but vary seasonally. It can be found on 229 Moo 1, Mae Sai-Chiang Rai Rd., T.Wiang, Chiang Rai. Tel: 0-5378-4084.

More affordable accommodation, right on the Mekong River on the Burmese side is the Golden Triangle Paradise Resort. >From here it is easy to access the border area, explore Chiang Saen and other nearby attractions such as Doi Tung and Doi Mae salong. The hotel is famous for its casino. The hotel has no spa but Thai massages can be arranged. Room rates start at THB 2000.

Chiang Rai is the nearest airport to the Golden Triangle and closest city. In the recent years, Chiang Rai has added several beautiful, yet affordable resorts to its list of guest houses. The new Golden Pine Resort is located amongst rice paddies and has 80 Lanna-style cottages. Amenities include a swimming pool, spa and gym. Room rates are approximately US$50 (tel: +66 (0) 53 706 270). For something different, seek out the Phu Chasai Mountain Resort & Spa. This resort is nestled in the hills surrounding Chiang Rai, offering guests a breathtaking view of the valley below. The resort offers numerous activities, such as golf, trekking, horse back riding and more. Rooms are richly decorated in teak and some have private hot tubs as well. Rates start at US$50 (tel: +66 (0) 53 771 745).