Amantaka, Luang Prabang

Location 

Amantaka is at the vanguard of a new wave of luxury hotels just starting to appear in Laos. And it’s setting a fine example. Located on a peninsula formed by the intersection of the Khan and Mekong Rivers, the hotel has repurposed a beautiful French colonial building, which itself lies within the grounds of a large garden estate. Conveniently it’s within strolling distance of the boutiques, bakeries and restaurants of World Heritage-listed Luang Prabang. The night market, the picturesque banks of the Mekong River, and the former Royal Palace are also nearby. 

Accommodation 

As you’d expect from an Aman resort, an air of exquisite luxury touches everything you see here. Eight of the suites feature king-sized beds and a joint living and sleeping area that opens out onto a terrace shaded by mango trees. Pool Suites have high ceilings and their own private pools. Khan Pool Suites have outdoor lounges overlooking the central courtyard, while Mekong Pool Suites and Amantaka Pool Suites feature spacious interiors and private outdoor areas. The headline-grabbing Aman Villa was originally completed in 1923 and lies just outside the main resort, offering three or four bedrooms, a private swimming pool and garden, and dedicated staff. 

Dining 

Amantaka serves authentic Laos and French-influenced cuisine in a number of dining venues. The Dining Room provides an airy ambiance while the Lounge Bar is an ideal spot for relaxing with an aperitif or evening cigar. The more casual Pool Terrace is open for lunch and dinner, and private dining can be arranged in a choice of secluded locations around the property, as well as in the privacy of your suite. 

Facilities 

Anyone who has stayed at an Aman resort will be familiar with the quality of their spa facilities and treatments, and here is no different. Double treatment rooms have a dressing area, treatment area, private jacuzzi and individual relaxation room. There are also steam and sauna facilities, as well as hot and cold plunge pools. Other facilities on offer include a fitness centre, library, boutique and art gallery, which features limited-edition photographs by Hans George Berger. The hotel will also gladly arrange trips to see the area’s noteworthy natural features, including Mount Phousi and the Pak Ou Caves, crammed with roughly five thousand Buddha sculptures.