Stay here: 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai review

What’s the deal?

The 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai is far from a typical historical hotel. Staying here is like being transported onto a luxurious estate but with all the modern comforts you could imagine. At the heart of the property is a magnificent teak homestead, a heritage building which dates back to the late 1800s and originally sat on 137 pillars. The homestead was beautifully restored in 2011 and now houses its restaurants, bars and a museum. It was originally the teak-trading East Borneo Company headquarters opened by Louis Leonowens, the son of Anna, whose memoirs inspired the film The King and I.

Why stay?

The rooms strike a balance between history and modernity, with contemporary rattan and wood furnishings. It’s also perfect for families – the David Fleming Macfie suites are especially comfortable for up to four. The central lawn has croquet set up for whenever you fancy a game; the pool sits below a gorgeous vertical garden; and there’s a calming tree view in every direction. Conservation is a focus too – most notably in the hotel’s partnership with the Elephant Nature Park .

Don’t miss

Sunset on the balcony of the homestead – ideally with a cocktail from Jack Bain’s Bar , the venue named after the building’s last inhabitant, in hand.