Best hotels in Battambang

In a melee of lotus ponds and palms, Maison Wat Kor does simplicity so well. Traditional wooden abodes are scattered across the grounds (ask the gracious staff about their history), which house just 10 rooms and a rustic restaurant. In a tranquil setting just outside of Battambang, the resort is well-positioned to explore the city's bucolic surrounds on a bicycle or bamboo 'train', which is an experience not soon forgotten. Battambang is an enigma in itself, where sleepy country town meets a burgeoning creative scene - and food stalls to be tried on every corner. Retreat from the world in this little slice of tranquility.

Leave behind the hubbub of the city and talk of tourist trails to enter a quaint world of pastel-coloured colonial homes and street food to rival all. Take up residence at one of the prettiest hotels in Battambang, with lemon walls and characterful rooms behind painted white shutters. Once a family home, this hotel looks like it still lives in the 30s but its service is 100% up-to-date. La Villa is perfectly positioned to enjoy a wander through the city, stopping to find a bargain at the Phsar Nath Market or learning to cook fish amok at a local restaurant. And let's not forget a one-of-a-kind ride on the bamboo train.

Battambang is a town where time seems to have paused and its history, written across the shuttered facades of its buildings. Combining features from Khmer and French architecture, the Bambu Hotel isn't overdone, but has a simple, colloquial touch. Whilst there, you'll find yourself on placid cycles by the river, and boat rides to remote, stilted fishing villages, learning to cook with Bambu's chef or sipping on locally-made rice wine. It may not be the Four Seasons, but the team at the Bambu know what they're doing - and they do it well. You'll leave with your shoulders a little lighter and a new appreciation for good, old-fashioned hospitality.

Nestled in the colonial heart of Battambang, Bric-à-Brac is a small and intimate hotel where you are greeted with cold towels and a special warmth. The hotel has just three rooms on three floors, each offering a sumptuous bed, pure linen sheets and hypoallergenic down pillows. Delivered to your room each morning, in bed or on the balcony, the classic French-style petit déjeuner breakfast includes artisan jams, coddled eggs in butter and Khmer pastry. The restaurant has opens from sunset, offering alfresco cocktails and French wines by the glass, plus home-made potted pork rillettes maison, and fine cheeses.