Luang Prabang, LaosPhou Vao
La Résidence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang
Royal hilltop estate
Phou Vao Luang Prabang, Laos
Opened
1976
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Local Luxe HeritageOutside the door
The house
MarriottRoyal hilltop estate
The estate preserves an aristocratic calm above Luang Prabang, surrounded by tropical greenery and views toward sacred Mount Phousi.
“Surrounded by gardens and spread across four two-story buildings, the hotel is "slightly removed from the action—just perfect."”
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Dawn almsgiving rituals and gallery-grade textile art created by Lao master Tiao Nith.
Notable
Private Mekong cruises and dedicated concierges arranging custom blessings and temple excursions.
Notable
A storied royal kite-flying hilltop that later served as a dignitary state guesthouse.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
With just thirty-four rooms and suites it’s intimate by nature, an effect intensified by the lush green of the gardens.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
The property sits two kilometers south of the historic center, keeping ancient temples and riverfront cafes a short ride away.
The rooms
Every suite opens onto a private balcony with a daybed, and bathrooms hold deep terrazzo soaking tubs.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The 13-meter freshwater infinity pool sits on the cliff edge, looking out across forested ridges.
The spa
Open-air teak pavilions gather around a lily pond, where treatments draw on traditional Lao herbal compresses.
At the table
The restaurant serves traditional clay-pot Lao dishes and French classics, and the open-air bar mixes cocktails with local herbs.
How it began
Phou Vao translates to 'Hill of Kites', named for Lao royals who once flew kites from this breezy ridge.
Luang Prabang
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.