The name Villa Mahabhirom translates as ‘Villa of Great Pleasure’ and it’s a fitting description for this elegant luxury resort discretely tucked away in a walled garden in a quiet Chiang Mai neighbourhood. Although Villa Mahabhirom is a hotel, it feels more like a home with the intimate atmosphere and thoughtful design making this a special place to stay if you are visiting Chiang Mai.
Antique Thai houses
The villas are antique Thai houses (ruean Thai) which date back over a century. All of the 14 teak villas originated from central Thailand and were lovingly restored by the owners of Villa Mahabhirom. Raised on stilts and featuring a distinctive gabled roof with handmade clay tiles, the antique houses showcase classic Thai architecture.
Each of the villas feature a private balcony to sit and enjoy the views of the verdant tropical garden. As beautiful as the villas are to look at from the outside, that same level of detail and elegance continues inside. The antique houses have been individually decorated and thoughtfully refitted with modern touches that include a stunning and practical Italian marble bathroom featuring contemporary amenities.
The inviting saltwater pool provides the focal point to the resort and a wonderful spot to relax while the shaded seating area is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast or lunch. Antiques and objets d’art from the private collection of the owners adds to the homely, but sophisticated atmosphere at Villa Mahabhirom.
Food & drink
Villa Mahabhirom pride themselves on the quality of their food which features a range of authentic Thai dishes together with international options. Fresh ingredients are sourced locally from the Thai Royal Project and meals lovingly prepared in a home-made style. I’ve enjoyed a lot (and I mean a lot!) of khao soi in my time, but this one I ate at Villa Mahabhirom was up there with the best. It really was that good.
Dine casually overlooking the pool or enjoy more formality in the dining room with its sparkling chandeliers and classic wooden interior. Even if you’re not fortunate enough to be staying at Villa Mahabhirom, non-guests can still enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea here.
Al fresco dining at Villa Mahabhirom
During the cool season in Chiang Mai (November-February), Villa Mahabhirom are offering a romantic al fresco dining experience. Enjoy delicious Thai food made with local ingredients sourced from the Royal Project. For more details and to make a reservation, contact eat@villamahabhirom.com or call +66 (0) 53 271 200.
Activities
You’ll need to wake up early, but joining locals as they offer alms to monks on their morning rounds is a lovely part of Thai culture. After a day of sightseeing in Chiang Mai, ease into the saltwater pool or relax with a good book and enjoy the gardens. Unwind at the hotel’s spa or perk yourself up with a yoga or tai chi class. And if you’re staying at Villa Mahabhirom anytime between now and the end of the year, you can experience a memorable hot-air balloon ride over Chiang Mai.
Location & bookings
Villa Mahabhirom is located in the west of Chiang Mai close to the ancient temple of Wat Umong. This is a quiet neighbourhood, but still within easy reach of Chiang Mai’s Old Town and the trendy Nimmanhaemin area. Chiang Mai airport is located a 10-minute drive away.
Villa Mahabhirom website
Disclaimer:
I was a guest of Villa Mahabhirom for my one-night stay. I was under no obligation to write a review, but am happy to do so because it was such an enjoyable stay. As always, views expressed here are my own.
