Location: Chiang Dao, Thailand
Type of Stay: Boutique Hotel
Price Range: $$
Digital Nomad-Friendly? Yes, but best for a short stay or vacation
Best For: Vacationers, Countryside Getaway
Length of My Stay: 2 Nights
Standout Feature: Beautiful view of Doi Chiang Dao with rice fields, great pool, and quality service
Booking Link: Dara Dao on Airbnb
Table of Contents
Checking In: First Impressions
After spending a month in Chiang Mai, I was craving a peaceful escape into nature. Chiang Dao was the perfect answer, and after spending a few nights in a rustic homestay in the mountains, I was looking for something a little more refined. Enter Dara Dao, a boutique stay that promised breathtaking views, high-end design, and a relaxing countryside retreat.
Getting there, you’ll drive down a rural dirt road, but once you arrive, you’re greeted by an elegant, modern building that immediately sets the tone for a luxurious stay. The friendly staff welcomed us with refreshing welcome drinks before leading us to our room. Walking along boardwalks that cut through lush rice fields, with Doi Chiang Dao towering in the background, I already knew this was going to be a special stay.
The moment I stepped onto our private terrace, I was blown away. The floor-to-ceiling windows in our room framed a postcard-worthy view of the mountains, and the overall aesthetic of the space felt modern yet deeply connected to the surrounding nature. The best part? Since we visited in the low season, we had the entire resort to ourselves—an unexpected but amazing perk that made our stay even more serene.
Book your stay at Dara Dao in Chiang Dao, Thailand here!
About the Stay: Design, Comfort & Amenities
Workability & WiFi
While Dara Dao is digital nomad-friendly, it’s better suited for a short workcation rather than an extended work stay. The WiFi was stable, but there weren’t dedicated co-working areas, so you’d mostly be working from your room or the café. If you’re looking for a productive retreat, it works, but this place is really about unplugging and enjoying the scenery.
Outdoor Features
- Infinity pool overlooking the resort and rice fields
- Free bikes to explore the surrounding countryside
- Private terraces with seating areas in each room
- Open-air restaurant with panoramic views
Comfort & Design
Dara Dao is a beautifully designed boutique resort, with six chalets built on stilts directly above the rice fields. These chalets are connected by an elegant wooden boardwalk, allowing guests to walk through the property while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The layout of the chalets ensures that each has complete privacy, making it feel like your own personal retreat in nature.
Inside, the attention to detail is exceptional. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the space while perfectly framing the views of Doi Chiang Dao. Even the shower has a window overlooking the mountains, offering a spa-like experience that feels completely immersive. The bathroom design features modern backlit mirrors, a stylish aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The bed was incredibly comfortable, offering the kind of sleep you only get in total tranquility. Waking up to mist rolling over the rice fields and mountains was an experience in itself. Everything about the chalet’s design feels high-end yet inviting, making it easy to settle in and never want to leave.
The Location & Nearby Attractions
While the resort itself is a destination, Chiang Dao has a lot to offer. Whether you’re into cultural sites, nature hikes, or just chilling in scenic cafés, there’s something here for you.
Nearby Activities
- Bike around the countryside – Dara Dao offers free bikes, and the surrounding roads are perfect for a scenic ride.
- Chiang Dao Caves (Wat Tham Chiang Dao) – A must-visit cave temple with stunning limestone formations.
- Chiang Dao Hot Springs – Relax in the natural hot springs for the ultimate unwinding session.
- Wat Tham Pha Plong – A peaceful temple tucked into the mountains, worth the climb for the views.
- Chiang Dao Cannabis Farm – A unique stop if you’re curious about Thailand’s budding cannabis industry.
Food & Dining
- On-Site Restaurant & Café – The included breakfast was a fantastic way to start the day, and the on-site restaurant served delicious Thai and Western dishes. The café also had a great selection of coffee, soft drinks, and cocktails.
- Khampanna Café Resort & Nature Café – A great nearby spot for coffee lovers with fun places to sit and take in the views.
Getting There & Accessibility
Chiang Dao is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Chiang Mai, making it an easy escape from the city. The best way to get here is to rent a car in Chiang Mai and drive yourself. The roads are well-maintained, and having your own car gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.
While it’s possible to take a bus or arrange a private transfer, having a car makes a huge difference in Chiang Dao, as the area is spread out and public transportation options are limited. If you do take a bus from Chiang Mai, you’ll be dropped off at the main road in Chiang Dao town, and from there, you’ll need to arrange a songthaew (shared truck taxi) to reach the resort.
Once you get close to Dara Dao, expect a drive down a dirt road for the last stretch. The road is bumpy but manageable with any standard car, and as soon as you arrive, the stunning surroundings make the journey well worth it.
My Experience: Pros & Cons
What I Loved
- Unreal mountain and rice field views from every angle
- Thoughtfully designed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
- Infinity pool with an epic backdrop
- Great food at the on-site restaurant and café
- Super attentive service
- Bikes available for free to explore the area
- Perfect location close to Chiang Dao’s main attractions
What Could Be Improved
Honestly? Nothing. This was one of my favorite stays ever. While the experience was undoubtedly enhanced by the fact that we had the place to ourselves, even with other guests, I think this boutique stay would still be a standout.
Final Thoughts: Would I Stay Here Again?
Absolutely, 100% yes. Dara Dao is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels I’ve stayed in, and it perfectly captures the magic of Chiang Dao. If you’re looking for a place to relax, soak in jaw-dropping views, and experience Thailand’s countryside in luxury, this is it.
Whether you’re coming from Chiang Mai for a short retreat or stopping here as part of a larger Thailand adventure, this stay is worth it. Just don’t be surprised if you don’t want to leave.
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