Best hotels in Luang Prabang

Part of the superstar Aman hotel group, Amantaka certainly lives up to its wonderfully luxurious name. An old French hospital that has been transformed into a boutique retreat with all the trappings, expect a perfect blend of new and old, exquisite food, private pools, chic decor, lush gardens and organic spa treatments. Whilst you'll find more than a few delightful hotels in Luang Prabang, Amantaka is probably the most opulent and the perfect add on if you want to send off (or begin) your trip with a bang and a great dollop of fabulous Laos hospitality.

There are a number of lovely luxury resorts residing in Luang Prabang, but Belmond La Residence Phou Vao can lay claim to being the first - and dare we say, one of the best. The fabulous resort is a little outside the city, and once you've clambered down from your tuk-tuk, you'll feel like you've escaped to a luxury jungle oasis, complete with ornamental ponds, glittering swimming pools and tropical flower beds. It's not just the surrounds that make it a worthy contender for your attention though, for the immaculate service, exquisite food and heaven-sent spa all speak for themselves.

Surrounded by delectable gardens, Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum is a haven from the busy streets of Luang Prabang that bustle just outside the door. Formerly the residence of the late Prince Souvanna Phouma, the blend of contemporary, colonial and Laotian interiors are incredibly welcoming and will make you feel at home as soon as you've stepped in the door. Just a stone's throw from the famous night market, this is the spot to be if you're looking to hit the streets of Luang Prabang and soak up everything this historical city has to offer - before retiring to the cooling shade of the garden and pool, of course.

Cast aside any pre-conceived notions you might have about Sofitel because this spot is unlike anything you might imagine. Set in a former governor's residence, Sofitel Luang Prabang is exactly what we picture when we think 'boutique hotel', with its gardens packed with lush palms and frangipani trees, hip and very cool interiors, sparkling pool, and elegant, spacious suites. Set in the heart of town, it's a good base for an exciting city exploration, but it's also a cool and calm retreat from the hubbub - and a very private one at that.

Imagine a simple and relaxed hotel with a smattering of casual style and you've pretty much conjured up the Souphattra Hotel in the heart of Luang Prabang. The hotel may have less frills than its luxurious local counterparts, but the pretty, French-colonial design is welcoming, the pool is cold and the rooms are spacious. Add to that the convenient central location and that fact that you're within easy striking distance of some of the city's most famous spots, including the night market, the Royal Temple Museum, Mount Phousi, the royal Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens, and this is an excellent choice for an easy and relaxed visit to LP.

Dripping with fine art, luxurious fabrics and carefully curated antiques, Satri House will entice you with its eclectic style and homely (albeit on a grand scale!) feel. A former royal residence - it was once the childhood abode of Prince Souphanouvong - the house has a magical ability to pull you back in time and immerse you in the rich history of Luang Prabang and Laos; but the fragrant gardens, boutique spa, library and excellent restaurant will also help you achieve that feeling of perfect holiday bliss. And being just a 10 minute stroll from the centre of town, the location is more than pleasing.

Romantic, remote, and utterly heavenly are all words that could be used to describe the delicious Rosewood Luang Prabang. Whilst most hotels in the area focus on the ancient city itself, the Rosewood sits on the palm-fringed outskirts and definitely makes the most of its distance. The beautiful design perfectly blends with the surrounding scenery, and you'll delight as you stumble across burbling streams and tumbling waterfalls in the grounds. If you can bear to tear yourself away from your chic suite, cooling pool and lush gardens, you'll find all manner of incredible activities to enjoy in Luang Prabang and further afield. Can you tell we love this one?

Set on the riverbank of the Nam Khan river overlooking the UNESCO Heritage city of Luang Prabang Le Bel Air Resort is the premier 4-star resort in town. The resort features 66 rooms in 3 categories, has a majestic river view, a riverside restaurant as well as an infinity style pool and bar. It is the perfect place to relax in peace while being close to all central attractions.

The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel in Luang Prabang is situated in the historical center of the peninsula and within walking distance to numerous famous temples. Despite the very central location, the Hotel and each room enjoys the calm and magnificent view on the Mekong river.

Once the home of Lao royalty, Villa Maly, located in the historic UNESCO protected zone, is today an exquisite boutique hotel surrounded by a tropical garden. The rooms are elegant and comfortable with a hint of history and creative touches. The individually designed rooms feature French colonial décor. Each room has a Fan, a flat-screen TV, a safety box, and tea/coffee making facilities. The en suite bathroom has shower facilities. Guests can enjoy body treatments and massages at the spa. International dishes are served in Le Vetiver, a open-air restaurant that also offers a wine list. Light snacks and cocktails are available at the bar, and poolside barbecues can also be arranged.

Located by the Nam Khan River, My Dream Boutique Resort offers non-smoking rooms with private balconies. Guests can enjoy meals at the open-air restaurant on-site. The resort also features an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and free bicycles for rent. Cozy rooms come with elegant wooden interiors and have plenty of natural light. Each is equipped with a cable TV and personal safe. Shower facilities and toiletries are included. Guests can enjoy a relaxing body massage, or spend some quiet reading time in the library.