Immersive nature, wellness and adventure activities for the family await this holiday season
Nestled within a bamboo jungle-cloaked, pristine landscape, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is an away-from-it-all escape in Northern Thailand. At the confluence of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos, the Camp's unique setting is accentuated by renowned architect and designer Bill Bensley's vision of creating a haven of relaxation for the urban travellers who are seeking an "off the grid" adventure. "With just 15 tents that offer breathtaking views of the picturesque river and lush bamboo jungles, our campsite champions sustainable tourism in several aspects," observes Paweena Waraha, Camp Manager. Preserving the natural landscape in its design, each of the tents showcases the local craftsmanship and culture of the region, "Families can make the most of this experience at our Two Bedroom Explorer's Lodge, with its own private deck and swimming pool overlooking the mesmerising bamboo jungles," she adds.
Embrace Slow Living
Mindfulness and healing come naturally in this setting as guests get an opportunity to connect with nature in the truest form. Taking advantage of nature's abundance, the Camp team offers unique experiences such as Bamboo Rattan Making. The Camp gardeners help guests hand-pick bamboo trees and rattan that grow naturally, and carefully craft them into oil lamps, cups, cutleries, steps, handrails, cooking pot and much more. "We use Bambusa nutans bamboo, also called Weeping Bamboo or Weeping Clumping Bamboo, native to Southeast Asia," explains Assistant Camp Manager Ajit Nandakumar. Continuing their learning of the local plant species around the Golden Triangle, guests can spend time with the Camp's skilled gardeners learning about the rich history and ecological significance of bamboo and other endemic plants during the tree planting activity.
Epicurean Experiences
Taking back some culinary tips and tricks is always a good souvenir and the Camp's chef has just the right recipes to create memories of a lifetime. "Khao Tom Mud is popular Thai dessert and a nutrition snack made of local ingredients including bananas, glutinous rice and peanuts wrapped in banana leaves," shares Camp Chef Sirintip Sianglert. "This dish is considered as one of the Thai ancestors' local wisdom and it is often offered to monks during merit making." Guests can also find their flair for some authentic Thai cooking with a quick lesson in making Sirintip's favourite dishes. "Enjoy a unique opportunity to gather fresh ingredients in the Camp Garden, adding a unique touch to your Thai cooking experience," the chef smiles. The walk culminates in a lesson of how to turn foraged finds into a tasty and healthy jungle-to-table meal.
Wellness Reloads
Among a canopy of fruiting trees, the open-air jungle spa redefines the connection with nature. Whether it is a signature spa experience, or a simple soak in the hot tub, tuning into the rhythm of birdsong and rustling bamboo is a kind of healing that can only be experienced in person. "Inspired by bamboo, the Ruak Bamboo is a full-body massage using a combination of local herbal oils of lemongrass, ginger and smooth natural bamboo sticks to target deep-seated muscle tension," suggests Ajit. "Relax sore muscles during the Mahout Recovery, as large poultices filled with camphor, lime and lemongrass are used to massage the body and are placed under the legs to release lactic acid and warm and comfort unyielding muscles. Meanwhile, your body is gently kneaded and restored with a curative Asian massage." The open-air spa's Mekong Meditation massage soothes with a blend of ylang ylang and lavender. In mere minutes, one lulls off into a peaceful if brief slumber. "The perfectly-timed birdsong is a more pitch-perfect soundtrack than any singing bowl or made-for-spa music!" he smiles. Using natural ingredients such as coffee, yogurt, and tamarind paste, guests can learn to make a natural face scrub that can become a part of their daily ritual.
Two Wheels and Endless fun
Guests can take in the natural beauty of Chiang Rai's rural landscape off-the-beaten-path with a guided excursion that follows a paved but hilly trail through lush green paddy fields, pineapple and rubber plantations, and a splendid teak forest. "The best way to explore the Golden Triangle is by bike, and the Camp's 'grammable Hillside Bicycle Tour is an easy, customised experience for individuals, families and even small groups," confirm Ajit. "Spot local farmers as they go about their daily routines, then take a break at Bau Luang Lake, before heading back to our Camp."
Thrill Seekers
Led by the skilled Camp Guides, guests can explore multiple hikes and trails that offer not just and adventure, but also a walk through the history and culture of the region. During the two-hour Wang Lao Hike, guests can witness the ancient weaving techniques brought down through the mountains by Chinese settlers from Xishuangbanna via Ken Tung in Myanmar before settling in Wanglao. "This Chinese heritage village in the Golden Triangle is famous for its unique weaves as well as a local pineapple variant, also grown right here by the community," shares Ajit. The half-day Huay Mark Liam Trail takes guests to the Huay Mark Liam National Park, winding past rugged bamboo forests and tea and agricultural plantations. "Spend time at the gushing waterfall before continuing past the Ban Ja Jor, a Lahu hill-tribe village with typical bamboo houses, and end at the perfect resting place to enjoy a picnic lunch," he adds. Beginning at Akha village, the scenic Likhai Trail cuts through the terraced fields of Mae Chan and into the steep forested hills beyond. A challenging route that takes off alongside the Naglae waterfall, this is preferred by enthusiasts for the variety of landscapes traversed, and the stunning vistas it offers. Ajit's favourite is the Doi Mae Salong Chinese Village and Tea Plantation. "Witness the unique way of life in a traditional Chinese village that has settled here for generations," he shares. "Your guide will reveal the fascinating political history of the region as you drive through the gorgeous mountain scenery and learn about the traditional oolong tea that has been adapted to this high-elevation setting."
The most fascinating aspects of the Golden Triangle are underscored by the diverse local communities and tribes that form a wonderfully rich cultural tapestry. Spending quality time with family in this meaningful adventure not only offers a fulfilling vacation but also an opportunity to immerse in a mindful way of life. "Join us this festive season for an immersive experience as we make a commitment to our community, and together with you, look forward to an even more significant year ahead," smiles Paweena.