LAOS - Destinations & Hotels
Vientiane
Ban Pako Eco-Lodge (50km's from Vientiane) | $$
Eco-friendly, Remote location
This simple lodge, built with natural materials in a Lao-style, has a spectacular view of the Ngum River, forest and the Phu Kha Khouai (Buffalo Horn Mountains). The lodge is perfectly located for “getting away” from Vientiane. Ban Pako took three years to build and was opened in 1995. A traditional longhouse has been turned into a cosy reception, bar and lounge area. The whole lodge is powered by solar cells, the obvious choice for a real eco-lodge.
The restaurant has a magnificent view of the river, particularly at sunset. The restaurant serves Lao and European dishes at reasonable prices. The bar serves cold beers, whiskies, and cool drinks as well as a selection of local Lao alcohols and herbal drinks. Tours can be organized locally to the National Park. All guides come from the local area and speak good English, activities that can be organized include: a riverboat tour, a nature trek, a temple visit and a swimming. There are easy to follow paths, maps provided by the resort, through the surrounding countryside for those who prefer to explore on their own.
In the forest not far from the lodge is the steam bath in which herbs, collected daily from the surrounding forest, are used. The herbs all have different properties and help alleviate a number of troubles. The steam bath is good for headaches, breathing and chest problems, skin conditions and insect bites. There is even a small dip pool next to the steam bath! There is also a meditation platform not far away from the steam bath, which is quiet and secluded - perfect for self-reflection.
The actual position where the lodge is located is also an important archaeological site, it is thought that 2000 years ago people came here to perform important rituals and bury their dead. There are excavation points all around the local area that have unearthed all kinds of ancient artefacts.
This fascinating lodge is ideal for those wanting to explore rural Laos but with limited time, as it is so close to Vientiane. The accommodation is very basic but is suitable for anyone looking for an eco-break away from other tourists in a beautiful and archeologically important spot. The steam bath and dip pool are the perfect tonic after exploring the surrounding countryside!
This is just one of the hotels that we recommend in this area. If your favourite is not featured just let your consultant know - we will be happy to book it for you!
Other Vientiane Hotels
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Vientiane - Green Park Hotel | $$
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This small hotel has become a firm favourite in the capital since opening just a few years ago. It is centrally located just a few blocks from the Mekong River, within walking distance of the morning market, and within a kilometre of the victory gate, the important city temples and the National...
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Vientiane - Settha Palace Hotel | $$$$
Character Boutique, Historic Hotel
Originally constructed in 1932, the luxurious Settha Palace Hotel has been restored to its former charm. Re-opened in 1999, French colonial architecture, period furniture, and landscaped gardens are some of the features of this historical landmark in the heart of Vientiane. The hotel is located...
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Vientiane - Ban Pako Eco-Lodge (50km's from Vientiane) | $$
Eco-friendly, Remote location
This simple lodge, built with natural materials in a Lao-style, has a spectacular view of the Ngum River, forest and the Phu Kha Khouai (Buffalo Horn Mountains). The lodge is perfectly located for “getting away” from Vientiane. Ban Pako took three years to build and was opened in 1995....
Learn more »
