Run for the mountains

Run for the mountains

The Peri Hotel Khao Yai provides beautiful views, great rooms and rustic Isan food

TRAVEL
Run for the mountains

Back when tourism was still a thing and people travelled from abroad, the most popular destinations were the many beaches of Thailand.

Whether it was down south in Phuket or Koh Samui or somewhere nearer to Bangkok like Hua Hin or Pattaya, it's a no-brainer to visit a beach when visiting Thailand. While there's no doubt the country's beaches are definitely a must-visit, there are other tranquil stays to enjoy and a different landscape to see if you're looking for something other than sandy beaches. If being surrounded by mountains covered with lush vegetation and being hidden away from any hint of busyness is what you're after, The Peri Hotel Khao Yai is the perfect refuge for you.

First impressions

The first thing you'll notice upon arriving at The Peri Hotel Khao Yai is the silence. Aside from the music that gently fills the lobby as you enter, the only thing you'll hear is the sound of nature inhabiting the mountains surrounding the property. It's a welcome change from the sounds of a busy city. Though the exterior has a simple modern design, the Peri Hotel Khao Yai's interior decor is a splash of bright colours reminiscent of 70's fashion with a tribal design that thematically blends with the forestry all around the property. You see that immediately in the lobby and rooms. "Tranquility" is the name of the game at The Peri Hotel Khao Yai. It's no surprise that prior to its revamp, it was known as Escape Hotel because it really does feel like an escape. The hotel is surrounded by mountains and trees, and though there's a road nearby, it's not busy enough to be any nuisance to guests. Aside from a swimming pool, the hotel also has a pond and an organic farm, which are perfect for when you want to spend quiet time outdoors.

Staying in

The Peri Hotel prides itself in offering a "home away from home". Though not a luxury hotel, it has everything you need for a relaxing stay. Choose one from their range of rooms, which starts at B1,400 per night, to fit your needs: the Superior Garden View, which is perfect if you're with a special someone or just spending some "me time", or opt for the other end of the spectrum and book their Three-bedroom villa, which can accommodate six and a heated plunge pool.

Because of the comfy and beautifully designed room, I was content to spend my stay locked in, but the hotel also had more to offer. The great views, surrounding nature, clean air and the lower temperatures brought about by the winter season meant that it was perfect to spend some time walking about to take in the scenery and breathe in the non-polluted atmosphere. Better yet, the hotel has bicycles you can borrow so you can spend an hour or so just riding about, maybe even visiting the organic farm picking out veggies for your meal.

Speaking of meals, Chow Barn is the hotel's restaurant and should definitely not be missed. The resto serves up Isan goodness, that will make your mouth water and set it on fire at the same time, cooked in a rustic style that goes well with the theme and aesthetic of the hotel. Top the night off by sipping cocktails at the bar, enjoying a clear and starry sky as you walk back to your room and finally sinking into their heavenly sheets to end the day.

Final thoughts

I love the city's hustle and bustle but the Peri Hotel Khao Yai provides the perfect respite when the city gets too much to handle. The surrounding forestry and mountains help you get lost in nature, the quiet is a welcome change from the noise of Bangkok. The beaches can wait for your next vacay; get some fresh mountain air this time around.

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