River Resort Champasak, Pakse

Reached by road and boat, River Resort lies in a peaceful location on the banks of the Mekong in Southern Laos. The views from the resort are some of the best in this region; you might even feel like you are in a coastal location with 'beaches' and islands off in the distance.

This is the ideal place to kick back and relax around the pool after a busy tour of Laos, but it's also a great base from which to explore the 4,000 islands or to enjoy kayaking and trekking.

The resort itself is small with just 20 rooms in 10 villas, most facing the river. We recommend a top storey room for a truly spectacular vista across the Mekong. The rooms are spacious and modern with lovely touches like a balcony at the front and back and wall to ceiling glass doors. The hotel has a good value spa, lovely manicured grounds and a restaurant serving western and Laotian cuisine all day.

River resort is a great all-round hotel, and it's hard to beat the views it offers while providing a comfortable stay with great food and above standard service. The only drawbacks for some might be the slightly modern design, in contrast to this traditional area of Laos.