While it’s truly a luxury to experience the centuries of history and blissful wilderness that awaits in Laos and Cambodia, these pint-sized countries have also gathered quite a collection of stylish properties over the years. Whether you’re following the temple trail from one kingdom to the next or seeking out a secret slice of beach, you’re sure to find a beautiful bolthole to hide away in for the night. And here are our favourite trips and properties for the ultimate luxury in Laos and Cambodia…
Classic Cambodia
Your journey through Cambodia begins in the capital of Phnom Penh. From markets crammed with handicrafts and lip-smacking local delicacies to jazzy rooftop bars and world-class restaurants, there is much to discover in the city.
Next up is the Cardamom Mountains. If Cambodia has a ‘beaten track’ at all, you’ll leave it entirely here, where fragrant forests envelope you on boat rides and a menagerie of rare species dwell in the forests. Keep your eyes and ears open, ready to spot a Malayan sun bear or clouded leopard, hear the shriek of a gibbon or the crunch of Asian elephants on the move.
A sun-kissed locale on the south coast, Kep is the epitome of seaside bliss. Take to the water on catamaran rides to hidden islands or delve below the surface on a snorkelling or diving excursion. And before you leave, enjoy Kep’s signature fried crab and kampot pepper at the famous Crab Market.
In Angkor Wat, step back in time by a few centuries as you enter the city-sized Angkor Temple Complex, the largest and one of the most spectacular in the world. Time your visit just as the sunrise begins to illuminate the enigmatic ruins, and then spend the day exploring on foot or bicycle. You can even float overhead in a hot air balloon… Return to real life in the buzzing Siem Reap and get ready to taste your way around the street food spots or learn to cook a few Cambodian dishes with a local family.
Opulent spots to stay
In Phnom Penh, the Rosewood is a landmark all of its own. Expect huge suites with butler service, a splendid rooftop bar and a fleet of leather-lined tuk tuks for all your exploring needs. In the Cardamom Mountains, Shinta Mani Wild (a Bill Bensley property – enough said!) has a secluded ‘reservoir’ pool, foot massages at the waterfall, and voluminous tents with terrace bathtubs. With a sublime setting on the shores of Kep, Knai Bang Chatt checks all the boxes for a relaxing beach getaway, mango body wraps and all. In Siem Reap, you won’t be disappointed at the Amansara, a once-royal retreat that promises secluded courtyard rooms — one with a private pool please! — and service that goes above and beyond.
A Laos & Cambodia Adventure
Bring together the astonishing history, architecture and natural beauty of these two South East Asian countries on a trip to remember.
Starting in Luang Prabang, the erstwhile royal capital of Laos, you’ll get your fill of golden temples glinting in the old town, before travelling to Champasak. Home to a remarkable collection of UNESCO-recognised wonders, this is a place where time has stood still. Its most iconic feature is the ancient Wat Phu, often thought to be the blueprint for Angkor Wat, but the scenery is worth a gaze or two: forested mountains rise amongst cascading waterfalls, rice fields glimmer, and tiny islands beckon from the Mekong River.
Then, hop across the border to Cambodia and Siem Reap, the lively gateway to the splendid sights of Angkor, where statues, shrines and temples can be discovered amongst the jungle. Your final destination is the melt-in-your-mouth shores of Kep where you could spend all day lazing on the sand or meandering along the coast on a kayak.
Opulent spots to stay
A sanctuary in Luang Prabang, Amantaka offers private pools and blissful spa treatments, and at the end of the day, dinner under the stars is heavenly. On an island in the middle of the Mekong River, La Folie Lodge comes with views to die for and it’s just a boat ride away from Wat Phou — you’ll be the first ones there in the morning. In Siem Reap, Shinta Mani is a stylish spot that offers gourmet Khmer cuisine and floral footbaths after a day of discovery and in Kep stay at Knai Bang Chatt for the best ocean views, from both the infinity pool or the resort’s catamaran.
Ultimate Laos
Discover the beauty of Laos on a trip around the country’s highlights. Begin in Vientiane, a tonic to any city-slicker, with its charming boulevards, parks and markets crammed to the brim with souvenirs. Then, leave behind any hint of real life in the graceful setting of Champasak, where mountains rise above ancient temples and rice fields, and boats wait to share the secrets of the Mekong River with you. The final stop is the riverside Luang Prabang where history is evident in every temple and royal relic. Be sure to wake early to witness the monks collecting alms in the quiet, peaceful streets.
Opulent spots to stay
The suitably grand Settha Palace Hotel has been meticulously restored to its former glory, making it one of the most coveted spots to stay in Vientiane — and those five-course dinners don’t hurt either. Nestled on a private island in the Mekong River, La Folie Lodge offers an idyllic vantage point to take in the vistas of Champasak and in Luang Prabang, the Rosewood is as pretty as a picture with a world-class spa to boot.
