Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Set in two acres of lush tropical gardens, Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao sits in an outstanding location on a hill above Luang Prabang. This beautiful property, where East blends seamlessly with West, is a peaceful retreat and as it is only 10 minutes from Luang Prabang, it's easily accessible.

Each room and suite has been planned with local design and materials in mind creating an airy elegance; think teak wood floors and furnishings, with private balconies overlooking the surrounding area. The restaurant serves delicious Lao cuisine; beautifully presented in a simply stunning setting this and the chic bar is the perfect place to enjoy an aperitif as the sun sets over the amazing view.

The luxury spa at La Residence Phou Vao has been built with traditional and local materials, including hand woven local silk panelling in keeping with the hotel's philosophy of a calming atmosphere and modern comforts. The indulgent and soothing treatments are based on traditional Laotian herbal remedies, designed to heal and nurture they only use pure botanical ingredients from local organic gardens and farms.

Scenic bicycle rides with hand made gourmet picnics, boat tours, walking tours and even Lao cooking classes can all be enjoyed here - the pace of life is relaxed, the hotel welcoming and the service outstanding.

There are 34 rooms and suites at La Residence Phou Vao, all with wonderful views. The Garden View rooms are on the hotel's ground floor and are surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The Mountain View rooms have dramatic views of Luang Prabang and the Phou Si Temple set on the mountainside. The Pool View rooms look across to the temple but the immediate view is of the hotel's dramatic infinity pool that is beautifully lit at night. The two Garden Suites are on the first floor and have a separate living area and garden views.

Children are welcome at La Residence Phou Vao but there is not a great deal of entertainment for them here other than the swimming pool (which please note has no shallow end). Cots, extra beds and children's meals can all be provided and babysitting is also available. Outside the hotel, elephant treks, rafting and cycling should all keep the children entertained.

The restaurant is well known for its wonderful Laotian and French influenced cuisine, barbecues are available at lunchtime, and in the evening enjoy the romantic lantern lit gardens. The bar is great not only for drinks but for afternoon tea too. The Mekong Spa is Luang Prabang's first luxury spa and offers a full range of treatments using only pure botanical ingredients. The stunning 13 meter freshwater infinity swimming pool has views of the lush valleys and glittering golden pagodas below.

The hotel provides a regular complimentary shuttle bus into Luang Prabang or you could explore the surroundings by bicycle and a freshly prepared picnic. Learn to create Laotian meals with a cooking class, or take a boat tour or a walking tour to take in Laung Prabang's charm.

November to April is the best time to visit Laos with dry and warm weather, with March and April being the hottest months. October and May are also good months to visit with only a bit of rain. July to September are the wettest months in Laos.