Khao Yai makes a romantic weekend that feels far further than three hours from Bangkok. Think misty mornings, a private pool, a vineyard lunch and dinner with a view. Here are three ways to plan a romantic weekend escape for two, depending on what kind of couple you are.
Escape 1: The do-nothing villa weekend
For: couples who need rest more than sightseeing.
- Where to stay: a hilltop villa with a view and in-villa dining, such as the pool villas and onsen villas at sala khaoyai, or a forest pool villa at MUTHI MAYA.
- Saturday: a late breakfast in the villa, a couples’ spa treatment in the afternoon and sunset drinks by the pool.
- Sunday: one easy outing, perhaps the art museum or a scenic cafe, before a slow drive home.
Escape 2: Nature and nightlife for two
For: couples who want adventure with a touch of luxury.
- Where to stay: close to the northern gate in Mu Si for easy dawn starts. See luxury pool villas.
- Saturday: sunrise in the park, a forest walk and the waterfalls. Return for a swim, then enjoy dinner and jazz at the InterContinental’s Papillon bar, or dinner at Poirot.
- Sunday: a viewpoint at dawn if you still have the energy, then brunch.
Escape 3: Food and wine weekend
For: couples who travel to eat.
- Where to stay: a villa with excellent in-villa dining, so you can open a bottle on your terrace.
- Saturday: a tasting tour and lunch at PB Valley, with a driver booked, followed by dinner at a Michelin Bib Gourmand Thai restaurant.
- Sunday: coffee at a specialty roaster and a farm-to-table lunch before heading home. See our restaurant guide.
Little touches that make it special
- Tell the resort if it is a birthday, anniversary or proposal. Many properties can arrange decorations, a cake or a private dinner.
- Go midweek if you can. Khao Yai is far quieter from Monday to Thursday.
- Visit in the cool season (November–February) for fireside or onsen evenings.
- Book a driver for wine days and late dinners. Country roads are dark at night.
Where to stay
Our romantic retreats guide compares the best villas for couples, including hilltop onsen villas, forest hideaways and railcar suites. For a complete hour-by-hour plan, see our luxury weekend itinerary.