Best Hotels in Luang Prabang, Laos

Your essential guide to the most beautiful hotels in Laos’ UNESCO town

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Luang Prabang has long been the unpretentious darling of South East Asia, home to the best hotels in the country and an indescribable mix of history, natural beauty and ancient culture. Many of the hotels here blend into this backdrop, evoking grandeur and a sense of lost time. From sprawling French-colonial resorts to sanctuaries in the jungle-clad surrounds, a stay in one of the world’s most laid-back countries doesn’t mean you have to compromise on luxury. Here’s our guide to the best hotels in Luang Prabang, Laos, for an immersion into this underrated and gloriously, culturally rich country.

Rosewood Luang Prabang

The Rosewood in Luang Prabang sits elegantly along the shores of the Nam Dong river, with a tumbling waterfall at its heart. Opened in 2018 and designed by Bill Bensley, its grand, romantic interiors and The Great House evoke a byone era – the golden age of travel. 23 villas, suites and tents are scattered around the surrounding teakwood forest, each with their own private dining areas and wrap-around decks. The rooms are warm and beautifully designed with Laotian textiles and artwork, while the luxe safari-style tents are built using local hill tribe designs. Grab a Waterfall Pool Villa, with magical views over the tumbling falls and your own private plunge pool. Explore the nearby villages or take part in their complimentary fishing experience on the river, complete with a local bamboo fishing rod. An immersive, luxurious stay that leaves the stresses of the modern world behind.

Amantaka

Aman have taken a beautiful garden estate in the heart of Luang Prabang and transformed it into a haven that beats with the slow, gentle pulse of this UNESCO World Heritage town. High ceilings, wooden shutters and soft flowing linens encapsulate the colonial feel of the place, with 24 decadent suites to choose from. The rooms are light and airy, with teakwood four poster beds, rattan detailing and tiled floors, leading out onto your own private pool or courtyard. Expect delicious, decadent breakfasts, a world-class Aman spa and experiences that transport you to the Laotian way of life – think participating in the ancient ritual of Sai Bat, learning the art of silk weaving and cruising the legendary Mekong river.

Satri House

Built at the turn of the 20th century by the revolutionary Prince Souphanouvong who later became the first president of the Lao PDR in 1975, this historic hotel is a glimpse into traditional Laos architecture and design. The grand rooms and tiled courtyards are surrounded by lush gardens, while the suites themselves – bedecked in soft shades of sage green and teal – are calming and serene, complete with linen draped beds and Laotian artifacts and artwork. Its location couldn’t be better – nestled amongst the quaint streets of the old town and just a stone’s throw from the Mekong river. Once you’ve had your fill of the town, take advantage of their Satri Boat, the only open-deck boat on the Mekong with a full kitchen and bar. Commission it for your own private overnight trip, exploring the gentle shores of this legendary river.

Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

From a sprawling teakwood estate, 3 acres of lush greenery and organic gardens cascade down Phou Vao hill, a place where Laos princes once came to fly their kites. The perfectly curated residence embraces Lao culture and tradition, bringing it to life for every guest who walks through the doors. The 32 suites are flooded with light, thanks to the grand floor-to-ceiling windows, offering views over the dense jungle or the misty mountains to accompany your morning coffee. You’ll find teakwood floors, four poster beds, Laotian artwork and local textiles, alongside your espresso machine and complimentary mini bar. Indulge at the Lao restaurant Tam Nam, one of the best in the city, before ending with a nightcap at their fun and creative Tuk Tuk Bar – serving up arguably the best negroni this side of Bangkok. If you can tear yourself away from the serenity and calm of the estate, experience the otherworldly morning light on the Mekong aboard a First Light Breakfast Cruise, and partake in a traditional Baci blessing.

Luang Say Residence

Hugging a turquoise pool and lush manicured gardens, Luang Say Residence is a testament to bygone times, where 8 grand, French-colonial pavilions contain 32 luxurious suites. It’s only a few minutes walk to the heart of Luang Prabang, nestled amongst the terracotta roofs and ancient temples of this UNESCO World Heritage town. The interiors are grand, regal and yet still traditional, with teakwood floors, four-poster beds and high ceilings. After a day of exploring the city, unwind in their fabulous 1861 bar – the lighting is dim, the atmosphere is buzzing and the cocktails are world-class. Vintage insect collections and Laotian botanical boards featuring the area’s flora and fauna only add to the heritage charm of the place.