Our stay at Baan Cheep Chang was the perfect antidote to the normal daily stresses of city life. After a warm greeting from the amenable staff, the pace quickly shifted down a gear as we relaxed into the peaceful, green surroundings and slipped into the soothing waters of the delightful pool.

We chose Chiang Mai over Thailand's beach destinations because we wanted to experience the country's culture as well as its natural attractions. This villa was the perfect base to do just that; the architecture and interiors offering a cultural journey in themselves (we couldn't help but make regular stops between rooms to peruse the intricate woodcarvings, statues and paintings and old photos that fill the villa). After two days relaxing poolside and another two exploring the stunning Chiang Mai countryside, coming home to healthy home cooked meals, we left Baan Cheep Chang relaxed, inspired and vowing to return.