Tatvani: The best new hotels in Thailand

For nearly 20 years, the private estate of Tatvani, tucked away in a neighbourhood close to the city of Chiang Rai, has been the domain of its owner, a European royal. This year he opened it up beyond his inner circle for exclusive-use hire. Guests arrive at the spectacular main villa of teak and glass, with views from balconies over the pool and verdant rice fields, a lake of lilies and dragon fish, and wild swimming ponds with koi carp.

Across the nearly 30 acres of gardens lie six villas, accommodating up to 18 guests, furnished in a distinctive old-world European style featuring a private collection of art, ceramics and carpets. Connecting the main contemporary villa, with views of Elephant Mountain in the distance, and five traditional Thai cottages, shaded paths wind between waterside decks and pavilions, and groves of green, black and golden bamboo.

Meals — from pad thai to fresh pasta, or any guest request — can be taken anywhere on the property. There’s a new gym, unlimited treatments in the traditional teak spa and entry to the Tatvani Elephant Sanctuary, a short drive away, where guests interact with the three elephants, joining them for their evening bath, washing and rinsing them, and speaking with the inspirational manager Narinda “Dada” Tikha, of the indigenous Karen people.

Children can run wild, boat on the lake, swim with koi and meet the estate’s buffalo herd, overseen by staff, then toast marshmallows around a campfire.

Details From £7,500 a night for up to 18, full-board, including spa treatments and golf, tatvani.com

For more information and images on Tatvani, please contact: Varun Sharma varun@tatvani.comTatvani.com WhatsApp/Telephone: (+44) 7949 577859