Home to verdant mountains and famously beautiful gilded temples, land-locked Laos is also criss-crossed by a marvellous network of meandering rivers. Vientiane, the country's capital, sits on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, whilst Luang Prabang - deemed by many to be its cultural heart - overlooks both the Mekong and the Nam Khan Rivers. The Nam Song flows through Vang Vieng; the communities of Champasak, again, face the Mekong as it flows towards Cambodia and Vietnam.

In each case, these age-old rivers are trade routes, sources of food production, and at the heart of Laos' diverse ecosystems. You'll find them reappearing throughout your travels, perfect for lazy afternoons in delicious restaurants, kayaking and boat trips, or for spotting birds and other wildlife. Our Gurus have gathered 10 relaxed riverside hotels in Laos here, perfect for plotting out your journey.

10 Relaxed Riverside Hotels in Laos

For Vientiane

• The Eastin Hotel, slightly beyond the city centre, is a grand and indulgent base. Suites are generously proportioned, with extensive Mekong River views. Expect sophisticated light blue and white interiors with high ceilings, a refreshing swimming pool and a superb rooftop bar. A stylish choice.
• La Seine Hotel's glamorous rooms and suites have jewel-like green or red tones, velvet upholstery and big mirrors. Romantic spaces boast free-standing tubs, whilst family rooms offer twin beds for little ones. A French-inspired river-facing favourite for well-heeled travellers, complete with a swanky wine bar.
• Beau Rivage Mekong is a charming and affordable riverside pick, with bright coral pink or light blue rooms featuring wrought iron beds and monochrome art pieces. Fun for couples or friends eager to stroll to the city's main sites or to meander along the banks of the Mekong.

For Luang Prabang

• Belle Rive Hotel is an idyllic spot for romantic couples or heritage buffs looking to kick back within sight on the Mekong River. Made up of three colonial-era buildings, the hotel offers attractive maisonettes as well as generous suites with private balconies, hardwood floors and traditional textiles. Charming and timeless.
• Mekong Riverview Hotel, perched at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, is another elegant pick with stacks of old-school charm. Watch the world go by from wrap-around wooden balconies, relax in rooms with hardwood floors and bright pops of colour from woven fabrics, and sink into spa baths.
• Apsara Rive Droite, on the opposite bank of the Nam Khan River, has a tranquil, intimate feel. Hide away in spacious rooms as a couple, or book the whole place for a celebration with friends and family. The cooling swimming pool and bird-filled gardens complete the picture.

For an Off-the-Beaten-Track Escape

• The River Resort is an understated rural retreat in Champasak Province, with marvellous Mekong River views from airy rooms and suites. Perfect for keen bird watchers, cyclists and ramblers, this modern hotel sits within 4 hectares of leafy parkland. Lovely and relaxing.
• La Folie Lodge sits on Don Daeng Island, surrounded by the waters of the Mekong River. A simple, traditional choice, the lodge offers 26 stilted bungalows bedecked in Laotian textiles and polished wood. Take a refreshing dip in the pool after cycling, kayaking and bird watching outings. A simple, charming base for nature lovers.
• Residence Bassac has a fresh boutique feel, with hardwood or patterned tile floors in pretty river-facing rooms. Tucked within leafy, frangipani-filled gardens this is a wonderfully romantic little hotel with an excellent reputation for Asian & Mediterranean cuisine, as well as cooking classes. Also appealingly affordable.
• Riverside Boutique Resort, on the Nam Song River near Vang Vieng, celebrates the unique crafts of eight of Laos' diverse ethnic groups through its interiors. The Restaurant du Crabe specialises in French-Laotian fusion cuisine, and rooms boast either magical mountain or river views. A particularly special retreat for couples.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Laos.
• Alternatively, check out our list of 9 Romantic Hotels in Luang Prabang.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

 

Written by Saskia Walker

posted Wednesday, 6th December 2023