We went camping earlier this year on the New South Wales South Coast at the Paperbark Camp. This time, we take a trip to Thailand for another luxury tent experience at the Kirimaya Golf Resort Spa.
This resort features standard rooms with views across the lush forested foothills of Khao Yai National Park as well as a 4 Tented Villas, for that African Safari feel in Thailand’s own wilderness.
Each tented villa features a white canvas exterior with simple contemporary interiors including a large sunken spa pool (so much more than a bath), and each tent has a private deck giving you uninterrupted views of the mountains.
If golf is your thing, there’s nowhere better to indulge, with the manicured greens of the Jack Nicklaus-designed course making the raw surroundings of the national park feel all the more special.
The resort includes its own restaurant (Acala), bar and clubhouse (T-Grill). Local materials have been used wherever possible to minimise impact on the environment, while the restaurant food is also sourced form the surrounding areas when available.
A few tips from our friends at Mr. & Mrs. Smith:
If you’re seeking peace, book a stay at Kirimaya during the week, as weekends are very popular with city-weary Bangkokians and things can get busy. The rustic surrounds of Maya Spa are a sensual backdrop for a pampering range of treatments.
Food & drink:
Hotel restaurant
The open-sided, high-ceilinged Acala Restaurant, overlooking the lake and golf course, stands proud at the heart of the resort. Large sunken tables and comfy oversized seating in a neutral colour palette encourage you to take your time as you graze on a menu of modern Thai and international food.
At the clubhouse, T-Grill is a safari-style steakhouse, complete with faux- leopard skin seats. Above Acala is the Mist, an intimate venue serving Japanese cuisine.
Dress code:
Ralph Lauren khakis and Nicole Farhi linens to get into safari mode.
Top table:
The corner table closest to the golf course is best for views and a cool breeze.
Hotel bar:
Inspired by a wildlife hideout, but with sleek leather chairs and charcoal sofas, first-floor the Mist is a minimalist, masculine spot for afternoon tea or an evening cocktail, with killer views of the National Park. Try the resort’s own take on a lychee martini, called the Smile of Khao Yai.
Kirimaya
mrandmrssmith.com/kirimaya
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
mrandmrssmith.com
