The 8 Best Wellness Retreats in Laos
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The slow pace of life in Laos is perfectly suited for some self-care to rejuvenate and relax. If you’re looking to unplug in a unique location away from modern technology and convenience, the Lao PDR is an excellent choice. Create your own wellness retreat at any of these beautiful Lao locations to soak in natural beauty, eat delicious food, meditate, book spa services and unwind.
DANSAVANH NAMNGUM RESORT
Dansavanh Namngum Resort is located a few hours’ drive outside of the capital city of Vientiane, where its sister property Dansavanh Vientiane Hotel is located. On the banks of the Nam Ngum reservoir, this resort has all the makings of a wellness getaway. Melt away your tension in the spa, which offers a variety of therapies. Check out the casino, enjoy a round of golf on the lakeside course or get out on the water. Dansavanh offers kayaking, jet skiing and speedboat rides to explore the thousand islands in the reservoir.
KINGFISHER ECOLODGE
The Kingfisher Ecolodge is located in the Emerald Triangle between Thailand, Cambodia and Laos in the southernmost province of Champasak. Immersed in wildlife, the lodge is situated between the Xe Pian Natural Protected Area and the Ramsar designated Beung Kiat Ngong Wetlands. Experience jungle trekking, mountain biking and elephant activities managed by the villagers of Ban Kiet Ngong. Stargaze from the porch of your bungalow and take in the sounds of the jungle at night.
KIRIDARA LUANG PRABANG
Kiridara, Luang Prabang | © Regina Beach
Kiridara Hotel is a purple-themed luxury boutique hotel outside the city. Situated on a hill, it affords magnificent views of Mount Phousi. Each of the 24 rooms is spacious and elegant with feather beds and terraces. An infinity pool with mountain view, fitness center with yoga studio and Lao spa all pamper guests. Choose from a variety of services ranging from facials and baths to steam rooms, massages and body treatments. Phu Doi restaurant is open all day, serving Lao and Western food.
AMANTAKA
Amantaka, Luang Prabang | © Regina Beach
Amantaka is an exclusive resort, hidden behind high white walls, with ample, lush gardens perfect for strolling. Sixteen of the 24 suites have private swimming pools in a private enclosed courtyard. Formerly a hospital, it was renovated into a luxury hotel complete with spa, library, art gallery and tennis courts. The wellness center offers traditional Lao Baci ceremonies, Lao massage, herbal treatments, organic facials, scrubs and wraps.
CHAMPASAK SPA WELLNESS CENTER
The Champasak Spa Wellness Center is located on the banks of the Mekong in the charming town of Champasak, near the UNESCO Heritage site Wat Phou. The Center is a French-backed sustainability project to train and employ local workers and source natural beauty products from southern Laos. Enjoy a traditional or herbal body massage, oil massage, hair treatment or indulge in a 5-hour, all-day treatment package which includes lunch and time to relax in the garden.
XIENG KHOUANG HOT SPRINGS
If you find yourself in Xieng Khouang province visiting the Plain of Jars, consider experiencing the hot mineral springs, which are a favorite of the locals. In Ban Nyai, take a short trek to view the springs themselves, then head to Hot Springs Resort – owned and operated by the Lao government – where you can bathe in the water piped in from the springs. The rustic resort has bungalows and electricity at night. Another spring can be found in Ban Xang, where visitors can bathe in the river where the hot and cool waters meet.
RIVERSIDE BOUTIQUE RESORT
Riverside Boutique Resort is located on the banks of the Nam Song. The hotel has 34 guest rooms, an outdoor pool with breathtaking views of the mountains and a spa offering treatments at massage. The Riverside Sala Spa is one of the best in Vang Vieng and uses natural products made in Thailand and Laos. The Riverside Signature Journey includes massage, hot herbal treatments, body scrub and steam therapy. Riverside Boutique Resort is also home to fine dining establishment Restaurant du Crabe d’Or, named for a local cave and featuring local and French cuisine.
TANGERINE GARDEN SPA
While you’re in the capital city of Vientiane, treat yourself to a reflexology massage at Tangerine Garden Spa from the highly trained attentive staff. Located minutes from the night market in the middle of downtown Vientiane, you will enjoy complimentary tea before and after your treatment. Listen to the soothing background music and breathe in the aromatherapy as you choose from foot massage, oil massage, Thai Yoga massage or spend a half day getting a body scrub, Jacuzzi and massage.
