Whether you are working in one of Southeast Asia’s metropolises or are simply visiting the region, it can get a bit hectic. It’s also easy to lose the sense of nature that can help us find balance and achieve peace. This doesn’t mean you need to disconnect from the world completely, but a few days away from the city or crowded throngs of tourists can be a refreshing change of pace.
Chiang Mai remains one of the best spots in Southeast Asia for a nature getaway. The impressive Doi Suthep, a 1,676-metre granite mountain covered in forests, sits only 15 kilometres away from the city while the expansive Doi Suthep–Pui National Park it sits in boasts some of the Kingdom’s best waterfalls, caves and cycling.
On the northern outskirts of the park and less than a 30-minute drive from the Chiang Mai city centre lays Sukantara Cascade Resort & Spa. Upon entering the amazing property, it feels as if you’ve been transported to another world. The most notable feature of the wondrous boutique resort is the waterfalls that run through it. After catching a glimpse, you’ll come to understand why celebrities such as Angelina Jolie choose to stay here when traversing the north of Thailand.
One of the few hotels in the world where you can wake up, walk out your door and put your feet in cascades, Sukantara allows visitors to be immersed in the wonders of nature. These include a family of beautiful peacocks who call the resort home. They strut around the property at their leisure, grazing by the waters and even making their way to a perch on the roof. Another fantastic sight is the cable bridge that connects the two sides of the resort.
With 16 rooms and suites, Sukantara never feels crowded. Despite the limited number of rooms, there are still several different types of accommodations available to guarantee your stay is perfect. The suite pool villa offers privacy and some of the best views of the cascades, which can be enjoyed from the veranda. The Thai villa features the classic Lanna-style Chiang Mai is known ensuring an authentic stay.
Perhaps the most unique of all the accommodations is the luxury-tented villa which is eco-friendly. The tent provides a camping-style experience without having to give up the luxuries of home. Inside you will find a bathtub and shower as well as interior furnishings that provide the ultimate jungle ambience. From bamboo walls to teak furniture and luxurious ceiling canopies, you will want to see it for yourself if you enjoy camping.
Chiang Mai’s best cakes
Even if you don’t stay at Sukantara Cascade Resort & Spa, you should stop by to try the Naomi cakes. Specially crafted by the manager, these are simply scrumptious. The coconut cake and coffee cake are out of this world and worth the trip from Bangkok on its own.
There are plenty of other reasons to dine at the hotel’s on-site restaurant. The traditional Thai Kantoke dinner is served outdoors in front of the waterfalls is a romantic experience that can’t be duplicated. During dinner you can indulge in an assortment of Chiang Mai’s most famous dishes all while basking in the wonderful candlelight setting.
Of course, you will want to conclude the evening with the aforementioned Naomi cakes before retiring back to your room for the evening.
No better feeling than being at Sukantara
What stands out most about Sukantara Cascade Resort & Spa is the feeling you have during your stay. From the moment you arrive to the time you bid farewell, there is a delightful homey feeling you can’t help but appreciate. Wandering around the resort, exploring the waterfalls creates the same joy as when you played in the backyard as a kid.
The staff at the resort is also exceptional, providing the Lanna-style service that has been passed down for generations in this region. Sukantara employs Karen staff who know this part of Thailand better than anyone else. The hill tribe group has been living in the mountains outside of Chiang Mai for centuries and is happy to assist you in any way possible.
Should you want to feel even more relaxed, the highly skilled wellness staff at the on-site Chiida Spa are available with a number of sublime treatments available. There is no better way to unwind than taking part in one of the spa’s signature massage or aroma therapy packages as the soothing sounds of the water serenade you in the background.
Once in a lifetime
There are a number of amazing resorts and retreats in Thailand, but none of them are quite like Sukantara Cascade Resort & Spa. The entire experience, from the world-class staff to the amazing scenery, is one you will never forget. It’s authentic, it’s peaceful and it’s beautiful. If you want to get away from it all (and eat some delicious cake) then head to Sukantara for a few days. You won’t be disappointed.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 81881 1444 or visit www.sukantara.com
