Best Luxury Hotels in Thailand

Staying somewhere eco-friendly need not mean stinting on luxury. The carbon-neutral Soneva Kiri has blended the two expertly. Villas cater for up to six people and have private infinity pools. There are watersports on the private beach, a spa, a tennis and volleyball court, an observatory, an outdoor cinema, several unique dining spots and a kids’ club. Be sure to book the treetop experience while you’re here – your meal will be served in a suspended bamboo pod, providing true birds’ eye views. And take a speedboat to Benz’s, the hotel’s mangrove-based dining concept, it’s built on stilts and lit by lanterns.

Built into a hillside and surrounded by 160 acres of grasslands and forestry, the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa is another marvellous choice if you want to commune with the elephants, as it’s next door to a foundation caring for these gentle giants. Lanna culture runs clearly through the resort; from the architecture to the hospitality, Northern Thai cuisine, design in its 61 bedrooms and the spa treatments (which are carried out in a three-storey wellness temple). There are also tennis courts, an infinity pool overlooking the valley, yoga sessions and kickboxing lessons.

Would you like a bucket list-worthy hotel experience? Retreat to a luxury resort with a difference; this tented camp places you among jungle trails, bamboo forestry and wildlife such as rescue elephants, who roam past your handcrafted teak door. Expect ‘rooms’ with outdoor showers, wooden hot tubs and lamplit verandahs. Sample Thai, Laotian and Burmese cooking under a thatched roof restaurant, and tipples from the in-house wine cave. Take a Land Rover trip out to the heart of the jungle, before being served sundowners on the roof and tuck into a picnic feast (prepared just for you) by the riverside.

Featuring classic architecture with a modern twist, this riverside property spread across five wings, is surrounded by century-old flora and fauna. Le Meridien’s culinary offer comprises a signature restaurant, Latest Recipe, and the riverside Italian Favola. There are multiple pools, a fitness centre, a library for some quiet time and the Parvati Spa for replenishing treatments to combat tired limbs after long days of exploring (bikes are available to borrow if you want to adventure on two wheels). Spacious bedrooms come with signature bedding, sitting areas and private balconies with epic views.

This newly opened hotel is found on Tawanron Beach, between Jomtien and the village of Bang Saray. The low-rise accommodation, comprising 204 bedrooms, suites and villas, is set within 15 private acres, including organic herb and kitchen gardens and mature trees. Lagoon Access Rooms, Pool Suites, Beachfront Suites, a four-bedroom Manor House and a six-bedroom Presidential Heritage House are all available to book; the latter two options offer butler service. At the resort’s centre is Raintree Court, where you’ll find most of the six restaurants, a show kitchen and relaxation areas. The pool area takes on a clubby vibe after dark, with cocktails and DJ sets.

Those keen to explore the shopping opportunities in this dynamic city will appreciate The St Regis’ location at the commercial district’s heart, Rajadamri Road. The Skytrain is also on the doorstep, with swift transfer times to local temples and attractions. Decorated in warm hues and marble, his hotel envelopes guests with its welcome. A highlight of any stay here is the 24-hour personalised butler service in every room – something that has been offered for over a hundred years. The gourmet selection ranges from Italian through to Japanese cuisine, signature buffets, brunches, handcrafted cocktails and a dedicated menu for younger palates. Don’t miss the western afternoon tea served in an ornate birdcage.

As part of the Kempinski Group of hotels, this is one of the newer 5-star hotels in Bangkok. It was established in 2010, designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates and is located at the heart of Bangkok. The hotel has a touch of European contemporary sophistication alongside many Thai-themed services and cuisine. The Siam Kempinski has 42 suites and a total of 303 rooms, in addition to the 98 serviced residences. The meeting rooms offer an impressive welcome to delegates – each is accessed via an ornate golden brass door. There’s also a sumptuous spa, three dining areas, bar and gorgeous outdoor pool. But its highlight has to be the green royal garden accessed right from the balconies of the rooms.

This is a brand and hotel that needs no introduction. The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok dates back to 1876 and sits on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the historical Charoenkrung district close to Chinatown. With 4.5 staff to each and every guest, nine restaurants a spa (which is accessed via a romantic boat trip across the river) an entire team of pastry chefs, a flower team, butlers and more, your every wish is granted.  There are 393 rooms and eight restaurants, and in 2016 it underwent large renovations unveiling a whole new wing, paying homage to its illustrious past. These interiors by Design Wilkes are truly regal and ornate, making this hotel the pinnacle of luxury hospitality

Located 200 yards from the popular Surin Beach on Millionaires’ Row, the Twinpalms Phuket Resort has its own beach club, plus three outdoor swimming pools set within a water garden-style landscape (a 50-meter lap pool, a lagoon-style pool and one for children). Kids can also let off some steam in their own club, with a programme of activities, while grown-ups chill out in the award-winning spa. Accommodation is across suites and villas; the largest providing private pools, kitchens with Nespresso machines, wine cellars and cigar humidors. The resort has a secluded feel and elegant decor.

Created by hotelier Bill Bensley, this destination hotel is loosely themed on a luxury train of old, having been inspired by the nearby 19th-century Pak Chong Railway station. You can inhabit your own upcycled vintage railway carriage (these form the suites), with marble shower rooms, carved wooden headboards and Laotian silk textiles in the mix. Somying’s Kitchen, Poirot and Papillon are the dining options, there’s a spa (playfully entitled “Back on Track) and a kids’ club — indeed the whole resort caters ably to little ones, particularly those lovers of the “choo choo”.

This funky 5-star hotel is just a stone’s throw from the dynamic Patpong night market and dazzling entertainment of the city. It’s easily accessed with its proximity to the MRT station and provides the contrast of a relaxing award-winning Spa complete with sensory rituals, and the exciting vibe of its Silom location. Visitors arriving for destination weddings and corporate gatherings find themselves suitably impressed by the high-ceilinged refined function rooms and delicious culinary creations. With art-inspired suites overlooking the old and the new of this historic city., Le Meridien is the hotel of choice for the cultured traveller. 

One of the newer offerings in Bangkok the W Hotel brand in Bangkok’s Sathorn business district has its finger most definitely on the pulse, with interiors designed by Soda and Avroko. “Casual luxury” is at the heart of this brand and it works flawlessly. Cutting-edge technology and little surprise finishing touches keep the 403 rooms a cut above the competition, whilst the bar is jumping in the evening giving the hotel a fun and funky approach to luxury accommodation. The Away Spa is also one of the best in the city. A highlight here is the famed epic brunch – it’s so vast diners are given a map of the buffet on entry. This is a popular choice for younger travellers seeking a luxury up to date experience. We loved every minute of our time at the W and we know you will too!