Fern Resort, Mae Hong Son

The Fern Resort is a delightful bungalow escape built into spectacular gardens in the hills of Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province. The resort was set up with the support of the Thai government and is operated on (genuinely) sound responsible tourism values with conservation, rural development and cultural preservation central to their practice.

It is in a small valley on the edge of the Mae Surin National Park, surrounded by forest-covered mountains, paddy fields and gardens. The 31 bungalows offer pretty and comfortable accommodation in relaxing surroundings. The bungalows come in 2 sizes and offer en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and private terraces (there are no televisions).

Alongside the main restaurant and swimming pool are beautiful lounges and a BBQ terrace, ideal for spending laid back afternoons and evenings. A bonfire area provides a great space for spending chilly winter evenings outdoors.

The resort also offers a great range of excursions and activities. In the vicinity, it is possible to trek or hike to remote tribal villages, visit hot springs, go mountain biking, elephant riding or explore rivers by local Longtail boat. Birdwatching and nature trails are possible from within the gardens.

The Buddhist temples around Mae Hong Son, with their Thai and Burmese influences, are also some of the most enchanting in Thailand. Located close to the border with Burma, Mae Hong Son has an interesting and distinctive mix of ethnic minority cultures and a long history.

Mae Hong Son is accessible by a 30-minute flight from Chiang Mai. Alternatively, you can do an overland tour through the mountains that also takes in Pai and other attractions.

The Fern Resort is a real gem. The resort will appeal to anyone looking to get off the beaten track and explore remote northern Thailand with.