RATI LANNA RIVERSIDE SPA RESORT

RATI LANNA RIVERSIDE SPA RESORT
33 Chang Klan Rd | 053-999-333 | www.ratilannachiangmai.com | B13, 600++
Though substantial in size and central in location, the Sofitel has managed to infuse its temple-inspired compound with a surprising serenity. Certainly, the most obvious reason for this is its fabulous setting, perched right on a gorgeous, peaceful and private stretch of the Ping River. One can’t help but notice that an unprecedented amount of rich, ancient teak has been utilized in the making of the hotel – but this is no surprise, as the principal owner is ex-mayor Boonlert Buranupakorn, who also heads Chiang Mai Sudaluck, one of the city’s biggest woodsmiths. Coupled with natural-looking walls whitewashed in Burmese temple style and oblong doorways borrowed from Lanna tradition, the architectural effect is both grand and genteel; it’s no wonder it’s become a recent favourite of visitors from the Thai royal household.
The 56 deluxe rooms are woodsy, fragrant and well-appointed, and the 17 double-large deluxe suites are doubly so, adding Jacuzzi tubs and other welcome perks. All rooms feature cosy daybeds on large verandas overlooking the river and provide multiple interactive LCD TVs. Aside from their lovely Aspara Spa kitted-out in a hill tribe theme, a great fitness centre and some excellent restaurants, the feature that perhaps most impresses the visitor is the fact that they’ve got private access to a long stretch of the river. This allows them to provide peaceful tours by scorpion-tailed boat to nearby Wiang Kum Kam and Wat Chedi Reahm. Lounging on the lawn by the river or in the capacious swimming pool affords a view that is utterly quiet and enchanting, particularly lovely at sundown.

Hotels Guide North chiang mai, Chiang Mai hotel, Thailand Travel Guide