La Folie Lodge
La Folie Lodge is situated on Don Daeng Island overlooking the beauties of the Mekong river, and is so secluded it is only accessible by boat from Champasak.
The lodge is understated and wonderfully quiet. There are 24 en suite bedrooms laid out between 12 bungalows in the lodge's floral grounds. Each bungalow has its own private terrace, which provides great spots for sunset vistas blanketing over the Mekong and UNESCO World Heritage temples of Wat Phou.
As far as activities go the island itself is tiny with eight little villages, which are best explored by bike; for further exploring guests can venture to nearby temples, waterfalls and islands. Alternatively the swimming pool and surrounding area are great for a day's relaxation.
La Folie Lodge is a peaceful retreat, with tropical gardens and riverside views throughout, whether guests are in their bedrooms, communal areas or in the lodge's restaurant. Their open-aired restaurant serves a range of international dishes as well as traditional Asian favourites. This is also a great spot for an after dinner drink. If guests fancy a change of flavour a boat can transfer them over to Champasak to sample local restaurants on the river bank.
Why We Love It
La Folie Lodge helps support local community projects.
River Resort
The River Resort is a peaceful water front retreat just outside of sleepy Champasak.
Having only opened in 2011 the property is relatively new with 20 contemporary designed bedrooms. 14 of the rooms are right on the Mekong with fabulous views and modern floor to ceiling windows with balconies, the remaining six have views of the lush greenery that surrounds the entire hotel.
Guests can dine al-fresco in the Riverside Sala restaurant in a relaxed open planned lounge setting. The chef here serves a range of Thai, Laotian and international dishes - all of which are created from the freshest local ingredients. Those seeking some private dining can escape to the roof top of the restaurant for a more intimate setting.
When a place is so quiet, there is no better way to relax than by the hotel's infinity swimming pool and listen to the sounds of... well nothing! There is also a small spa for guests to indulge in a massage or two during their stay.
For a more active pursuit guests can explore the Mekong by kayak or on a river cruise with a sunset cocktail. There are also bicycles to discover the local area and tropical parkland.
Why We Love It
Guests can accompany the hotel chef to the Pakse Wet market in the morning to purchase Laotian delicacies which can then be turned into a delicious lunch when they back at the hotel.