Sala Bang Pa-In Hotel

Thailand

In a kingdom as old as time, Sala Bang Pa-In’s contemporary design catches the eye as it juts from the banks of the Chao Phraya river. While only an hour north of Bangkok, this lesser known but historic location serves off-road explorers with a slice of private escapism. On arrival, it’s a red bridge, rather than carpet, that guides you to a welcome area, where architecture references local villages. Once checked in, spacious villas, a 30m swimming pool and spa-style bathrooms promise retreat after days spent kayaking on the river, and for extra indulgence, in-suite massages are only a call away.

The biggest draw, however, is the hotel’s proximity to the bygone Summer Palace, and a river cruise to the ancient site is included in your stay. Bonus cultural trips come via a champagne-fuelled speedboat tour to the Unesco-listed Ayutthaya and local gallery visits. As the sun sets, delve into Thai flavours at the in-house restaurant.

Doubles from £105. 00 6635 246388, salahospitality.com

Words by Megan Dickson.

This review was taken from the Christmas 2022 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.