Luang Prabang's 7 Best Sleeps

Its rich culture and elegant architecture has made this Laos city a cool classic. Here are seven sustainable stays from which to enjoy it

- Claire Boobbyer

3 NAGAS

Built from teak and rosewood borne by elephants across the Nam Khan River, Khamboua House (left) is an exquisite example of local Lao architecture, sitting pretty behind the frangipani blossom. Part of 3 Nagas – three buildings straddling the quiet main Luang Prabang street – it’s named for the naga, fabled water serpents, and the protectors of Laos. Built-in 1903 by a royal mandarin, intimate Khamboua House overlooks a secret garden sloping towards the slow-flow river. Perfect for a hibiscus-infused tequila cocktail amid fragrant flowers. The team are also dedicated to keeping the local streets sweeter too: 3 Nagas staff join Trash Hero Laos collectors in picking up rubbish around the neighbourhood once a month. From £108pn; www.3-nagas.com

SOFITEL LUANG PRABANG

Cocooning guests amid lily ponds and flowered gardens set within the walls of a dressed-up French colonial prison, Sofitel Luang Prabang is now a quiet sanctuary off the town centre. The elegant flood-lit pool is a treat, too, after a day strolling the town’s gilded temples and betel palm stuffed alleys. At the canopied Governor’s Grill, dine on vegetarian or vegan – flagged on the menu as Eat Like An Elephant – and support the Elephant Conservation Center, which strives for the survival of the last herds of Asian eles in mountainous Laos. Cinephiles have extra reasons to book: once a year the Sofitel becomes the town’s social magnet for the Luang Prabang Film Festival, a buzzy celebration of Asian movies. From £178pn; www.sofitel-luangprabang.com

AMANTAKA