Valata Khaoyai Resort

In the shadow of Khao Yai lies this beautiful European styled resort set in earthly tones that glows golden in the cast of the morning sun. Alongside is a large parcel of garden landscape for that cool morning walk taking in plentiful breaths of fresh mountain air. Bicycles are available for guest, and there is also a sizable swimming pool for beating the afternoon heat in the hotter months. Every day, between 8 to 11 am, the rabbits were moved from their sheltered pens into a play area where guest can cuddle, feed and play with them. All the fur balls were very well taken care of, and we were only allowed to feed them proper branded rabbit snacks we bought from the reception. Although they were expensive, we were happy to purchase knowing that these rabbits were not just show toys for play (many other places with rabbits simply treat them like disposable commodities, sadly). There were also the short fully chickens let loose to roam, and either they be chasing children, or the children be chasing them. There were also parrots in their large cage and a deer to be found in the garden. December, most popular resorts will likely be fully booked. We were lucky to be able to get The Cottage here. It is the only “villa” they have and is located far away from the main building. It is very isolated and private. Externally, it looks like a fairytale cottage with her own front plot of a lovely garden complete with a swing. Interior wise, it is minimalistic with a very basic set of furniture suffice for a stay. The other units in the main block are trendier according to pictures we had seen. The toilet is downright plain simple, and the water heater was not working well. When we tried to ask for extra pillow for our child, we were asked to pay THB 80…. not too happy about it. For everything that is so basic but having to pay premium because it was the peak end of the year period, was a difficult pill to swallow. But if you check the prices during the normal period, this resort is considered very affordable and worthwhile. The very basic breakfast was included in our package. It was ordering a meal off an ala-carte menu plus self-served toast and coffee. During our stay, the morning was exceptionally cold. That made our stay very remarkable as it was like waking up in a foreign country. With wide open spaces, our child was everywhere up down left right and center making new friends with the other kids here. What a good way to end the year, just chilling it out in Khao Yai.