The Absolute Best Places to Stay in Pai, Thailand
Your perfect Pai retreat: Discover the best stays in Pai, from boutique hotels to jungle-clad hidden gems
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Over the last decade, Pai has been drawing tourists away from the sprawling city of Chiang Mai and into the heart of the Northern Thai countryside. Even just a few years ago, accommodation was mainly limited to simple, rustic hostels, catering to the hippie backpacker crowd who had put the place on the map. Now, a slew of beautiful boutique stays can be found, set in tropical gardens and with a focus on local artisans and exceptional service. But with access to Pai still only possible by road, it’s managed to avoid the rampant commercialisation found in other parts of Thailand, meaning you can find your own slice of paradise with low prices. For now, at least.
1. Pai Village Boutique Resort
Only a few minutes from Pai’s Walking Street, Pai Village Boutique Resort is smack bang in the heart of the action. One of Pai’s most beautiful stays, with a focus on traditional Lanna and Hmong heritage, choose from suites, bamboo villas and bungalows set within lush, tropical gardens. Most rooms have outdoor terraces and hammocks, where you can sit with your morning coffee and enjoy the sounds of cicadas and birdsong as the world wakes up around you. Beds are large and comfortable, covered in soft linens, while your outdoor seating is complete with plush cushions and throws in traditional Thai textiles. Fruit bowls are provided, spilling over with fresh mango, lychees and sweet bananas, while tropical flowers brighten up bathrooms that come stocked with toiletries, robes and slippers. After a day of exploring, relax by the gorgeous turquoise pool with a cocktail, before heading to their renowned on-site restaurant The Blue Ox to enjoy Tom Yam Goong and soft shell crab with spicy sweet basil. End with a night-cap in one of the many local bars, before strolling back to your room. Sometimes it pays to be in the midst of it all.
2. Reverie Siam
Mornings are especially magical here at Reverie Siam, which sits on a quiet bend of the Pai River just outside the main town. The bustling energy of Pai can be felt through the hotel, with its buzzing on-site bar and restaurant with live music, yet you’re far enough away from the busy streets to feel like you’re in a jungle-clad world of your own. The colonial-style buildings are designed to evoke the sophisticated charm of old-world Siam, with gramophones in the rooms, roll-top baths and teakwood venetian blinds. Yet somehow, the interiors don’t feel like a gimmick. Instead, this is understated luxury, thanks to the muted fabrics and linen draped ceilings. Outside is just as gorgeous as inside. Open your terrace doors on a quiet morning to reveal a backdrop of forested mountains, swaying palm trees and brightly coloured birds. Wake up with a swim in their natural stone saltwater pool, or gently soak in the turquoise infinity pool if that’s more your style. We love the fact you get that choice in the first place.
3. The Countryside Pai
Located only 1km from the centre of Pai, this gorgeous little hotel is made up of bamboo bungalows overlooking the rice paddies. Each one comes with its own roof terrace, in a unique design that gives every guest 360° views over the Pai countryside. The rooms inside are simple, clean and comfortable, with large, soft beds, tea and coffee facilities and a choice of fans or air-conditioning. Relax by the pool on a sweltering hot day, and enjoy afternoon naps on their bamboo covered loungers. For those who really want to get away from it all, dotted in cosy corners of the gardens, you’ll find simple wooden huts with panoramic views over the fields and mountains beyond. Hammocks are strung up, waiting for you to put your feet up with a good book. It’s a casual place with thoughtful touches; the focus here is on guests enjoying the beautiful location without pretence or over-the-top resorts. This is Pai at its best – a boho bolt-hole where you might forget the outside world exists. Beautiful, simple living.
4. Montis Resort
You’ll arrive in Montis Resort after a short drive from Pai centre. It’s secluded, quiet luxury here. The unique architecture of the resort blends into the surrounding nature, with earthy tones and domed villas more reminiscent of a luxe safari lodge than your typical Thai hut. Montis Resort is made up of a series of these villas, some of them with two bedrooms and living areas. The interiors are beautifully designed, with terracottas, burnt reds and stone coloured textiles. You’ll find African-inspired art adorning the walls here and the villas surround a central natural pool – except you won’t spot any hippos or elephants crossing through here. Head to the large pool for an afternoon dip, surrounded by swaying palm trees, shaded loungers and panoramic views of the Northern Thai mountains. Enjoy an evening meal in their on-site restaurant, complete with a fully stocked bar and delicious Thai cuisine before falling asleep in your giant bed to the sounds of nature around you. Bike hire is available and Pai is only a short ride away. But if you want to escape the busy streets and sounds of motorbikes, this is the place for you.
5. The Farmhouse Pai
Behind the dusty streets of Pai’s centre lies The Farmhouse Pai – a secluded hideaway that feels world’s away from the bustle that lies just outside its doors. Once a working farm, home to alpacas, rabbits and even a vineyard, today the beautiful grounds have been transformed into one of Pai’s most beloved retreats – a collection of 21 traditional Thai boutique villas set in perfectly kept tropical gardens. Choose from a comfortable bamboo Farm Bungalow, with a private terrace and garden views, to their Luxury Farmhouse – an expansive space with your own living area and pantry, painted a calming sage green with a gorgeous white veranda to enjoy your morning coffee. Fresh breakfasts are served every morning, while an all-day snack bar with fresh juices, tropical fruits and crisps will keep you recharged after a day of exploring. The grounds and villas are immaculately kept, and with exceptionally warm and friendly staff who want to ensure you have the best stay possible, this is Thai hospitality at its finest.
Things to Do
Things to Do
