Villa Mahabhirom

The 30 Best Hotels in Thailand for Delicious Food, Friendly Service, and Great Views | Condé Nast Traveler

"A 10-minute drive from central Chiang Mai, this stay is a welcomed escape from city life and a blissful break in a jungle landscape. Tall bamboo canes and palms line the paths to the 24 traditional Thai teak wood homes, of which 14 are used for guests. With space for only 28 guests at a time, it feels more like a home than a hotel. The villas were once Thai family homes and date back over 120 years, carefully restored and renovated. Built on stilts, each has an open-air living area, dimly lit bedrooms, marble bathrooms, and cozy balconies on the upper level. Larger villas have private pools and garden space. Antique furniture and ornaments are displayed throughout the property—vintage chandeliers, shabby-chic wardrobes, and grand taxidermy make a walk through the grounds feel like an open-air museum. The pool is a work of art, reflecting its well-designed surroundings of green foliage, clay sculptures designed by a local artist, hanging lanterns, and plush sun beds. Poolside is also where breakfast and supper a served. Dine from the delicious Vietnamese menu and sip cocktails from the daily happy hour—it’s the only time you’ll see other guests emerge. It’s also a chance to see the resident deer who lives and wanders on the grounds." - Chris Schalkx, Lee Cobaj