Dhara Dhevi Hotel

51/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai-Sankampaeng Road, T. Tasala, A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50000

Arriving at the Dhara Dhevi is like stepping back in time to the ancient Thai Kingdom of Lanna. Set across 24ha of tropical grounds, the resort recreates the 13th-century civilisation in miniature, complete with its own paddy fields, moats, craft villages and fortified walls.

Hop on one of the resort’s bicycle to traverse the many winding paths and with each turn you’ll meet a different styles of architecture. Every element verges on the spectacular, with an elaborate white tiered lobby that slopes into gilt spires and a grand stairway. You’ll find two huge pools, one of which looks out over lush rice fields.

Rooms here are divided between Colonial Suites – which all have high ceilings, marble bathrooms and lavish furniture – and sleek two-storey teak villas that were converted from northern Thai rice barns.

At dinner, sit back and watch traditional dance performances to local music before tucking into spicy Chiang Mai sausages and stir-fried soft shell crab in a fragrant yellow curry at restaurant Le Grand Lanna. LF. Doubles from £382. 00 66 53 888 888, dharadhevi.com