Secrets' Out #49 – Where to stay, wine and dine in Luang Prabang

Satri House

Nestled in the hills of northern Laos, the legendary town of Luang Prabang was the country's royal and spiritual capital for centuries and is still known for its gilded Buddhist monasteries, slow pace of life along the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, unique colonial architecture and plenty of local charm.

The lauded UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to a number of Secret Retreats properties and Secret Tables restaurants that respect the local history and culture while still spoiling guests and diners with modern luxuries.

From a heritage property that was once home to the first President of Lao People's Democratic Republic to the newest addition to Luang Prabang's restaurant scene, discovering Luang Prabang through Secret Retreats and Secret Tables unveils the essence of the fascinating region.

Satri House

One step into Satri House and you'll feel as if you've fallen into another world. The intimate French colonial-style property boasts an impressive heritage pedigree, built in 1904 by Prince Souphanouvong's parents, the first President of Lao People's Democratic Republic, along with 28 airy guestrooms and three suites featuring handcrafted wood furniture and oversized balconies. 

Surrounded by Luang Prabang's lush greenery and Satri House's tasteful elegance, the property serves as an atmospheric sanctuary from which to base your Luang Prabang explorations.

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The Apsara Rive Droite

The Apsara Rive Droite

Just on the other side of the Nam Khan River from Luang Prabang's old city centre, The Apsara Rive Droite offers just nine stylish and spacious rooms each with their own large veranda or balcony facing the river in a quiet, yet still convenient, location. After a refreshing dip in the garden-encircled pool, make sure to hop across the river for dinner at The Apsara Restaurant which offers memorable dishes known for modern Asian flavours and a fresh twist on traditional Lao cookery.

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Le Calao

Le Calao

Just opened on the edge of the Mekong River, Le Calao has reinvented itself from a former inn to a new restaurant that evokes a sense of historic colonial elegance while serving traditional Laotian and European favourites. Savour local dishes bursting with fresh herbs and captivating flavours or linger over an after-meal espresso from the open-air balcony.

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Manda de Laos

Manda de Laos

Enveloped by the magical beauty of three lotus ponds that are registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manda de Laos specialises in Laotian family cuisine with flavourful dishes meant to be shared. While the meals are certainly delicious, with signature dishes like “Khoua Sin Kwai” (wok-fried buffalo flambéed with local Lao Lao alcohol), the enchanting tropical ambience is even more mesmerising as you dine by candlelight under the stars.

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Continue the Journey

The journey doesn't need to end in Luang Prabang. Travel deeper into northern Laos with a stay at the remote Muang La Lodge located in an Akha village, or make your way to Thailand aboard Luang Say's custom-built luxury river boats during a leisurely 2-day cruise with a stay overnight at Luang Say Lodge.

Contact the Secret Retreats Concierge for more details…

For more information, offers and bookings contact the Secret Retreats Concierge at
dream@secret-retreats.com.