Satri House is a stylish and intimate boutique hotel with just 31 rooms and suites that sit within luminous gardens, lily ponds and shimmering pools. The property sits down a quiet lane and is surrounded by local houses; it's not uncommon to see locals playing petanque right outside the hotel.
At the heart of the property is the main building that dates back to the early 1900s; it was once the residence of Prince Souphanavong and is now a UNESCO protected Heritage House. New additions have been added to the hotel over the years, but these buildings blend seamlessly into the original architecture.
The 31 rooms and suites are divided into Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites and Satri House Suites. They are all wonderfully decorated; think Farrow and Ball shades, antique rugs, wooden shutters, unique artefacts and silk cushions.
The Deluxe Rooms are situated in the garden buildings. These have balconies or terraces with views over the charming gardens. The Junior Suites are a little larger and benefit from bathtubs and a bit more space. These are ideal if you need an extra bed. The larger Satri House Suites are located within the UNESCO protected Heritage House; these are naturally a little more historic and therefore a little more expensive. All of the rooms enjoy beautiful wooden beds, thick indulgent mattresses (not always the case in Laos!) and crisp white sheets. We found the rooms incredibly comfortable without being overly luxurious.
In the evenings most people tend to enjoy the plethora of restaurants in Luang Prabang (L'Elephant and Tamarind are must tries!), but if you fancy a night in at the hotel there is a wonderful restaurant serving modern Asian and French cuisine.
For an easy and relaxing afternoon we recommend trying the small but serene spa; the well-priced Indo-Chinese massage is their speciality and ideal after a morning's tour. You'll also find a herbal steam room, cool pool and a Jacuzzi as well.
Satri House is a real gem and ideal for those wanting to be within walking distance from Luang Prabang's glimmering temples. Like many hotels in Laos, service can be very slow in Satri House, but we feel it adds to the Laotian charm.