Sala Bang Pa-in: Boutique Riverfront Hotel

Nestled on a private island in the Chao Phraya River, close to the Summer Palace, this stylish 24-key retreat becomes the group’s ninth property in Thailand and the fifth member of sala boutique, its collection of intimate hotels.

SALA Hospitality Group, Thailand’s homegrown design-led hospitality company, has unveiled the latest addition to its curated collection of beachfront resorts and boutique hotels: sala bang pa-in, a chic and stylish new riverside retreat that allows guests to escape the city, unwind in nature and learn about Thai history. With a fleet of boats awaiting to transport guests on immersive excursions, including complimentary transfers to and from the Summer Palace, every traveller can uncover the rich heritage of a charming yet relatively undiscovered part of the Kingdom.

Scheduled to open its doors on May 1, sala bang pa-in will become the group’s ninth property in Thailand and the fifth member of sala boutique, a portfolio of intimate hotels situated in picturesque locations, many of which are filled with historical significance. Nestled on an island in the Chao Phraya River between Ayutthaya and Bangkok, Thailand’s ancient and modern capitals, Bang Pa-in is an exceptional addition to this anthology. This also marks the latest collaboration between SALA Hospitality Group and Twitee Vajrabhaya Teparkum from the Department of Architecture Co., the acclaimed Bangkok-based design studio, following the successful openings of Six Senses Samui and SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort.

In the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, it is said that King Ekathosarot (reign from 1605 to 1620) was shipwrecked on an island in the Chao Phraya, Thailand’s “River of Kings,” as he sailed to the royal palace. There he met a woman living on the island and fell in love. Their alleged son King Prasat Thong (reign from 1629 or 1630 to 1656) decided to build a palace in Bang Pa-in, as a tribute to the home of his mother. Today, this “Summer Palace” remains an enchanting attraction that echoes the elegance of a bygone era, and guests at sala bang pa-in will be able to discover its secrets with complimentary daily boat services.

Celebrating this destination’s vivid backstory and natural beauty, sala bang pa-in is a contemporary boutique retreat that puts guests on the doorstep of the Summer Palace. The hotel houses just 24 deluxe rooms and pool villas, all of which reflect a modern minimalist design concept and cutting-edge technology, such as high-end sound systems with smartphone connectivity, LED TVs and espresso machines in every villa. Each spa-inspired bathroom comprises a separate bathtub and rain shower, and all 10 villas open out onto expansive riverside terraces with daybeds and private pools. The top room category, the spectacular three-bedroom river view presidential pool villa, offers 484 square metres of indoor and alfresco living space, making it ideal for families and groups of friends.

Endless days can be spent exploring this intriguing area aboard the hotel’s own handcrafted 40ft wooden motorboat made by a renowned local boat-builder in Ayutthaya. It offers river cruises to the Summer Palace (included in the room rate), along with daily sightseeing tours and sunset cocktail cruises. Alternatively, a luxurious 26ft speedboat is available for half- and full-day private charters and intimate group events.

Bang Pa-in is an enticing option for visitors who want to embrace the great outdoors, with plenty of scenic cycling routes to and from the hotel, including a 50km loop that encompasses Ayutthaya and the Summer Palace, and secure bike parking at the hotel. Guests can also jog along a path that winds around the property and along the riverbank, relax with in-room spa and massage services, or plunge into the inviting outdoor swimming pool, which stretches 30 metres along the waterfront.

Delectable dining experiences can be enjoyed at sala bang pa-in eatery and bar, its riverside restaurant. The menu of Thai and international cuisine highlights ingredients grown in the hotel’s onsite garden, accompanied by global wines, craft beers and creative cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating is available with panoramic vistas.

Within a short driving distance of Bangkok, sala bang pa-in is also an outstanding destination for out-of-town events, weddings and company away days. The second floor multi-purpose meeting room, with its balcony and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, can host inspiring gatherings of up to 20 delegates, the 240sqm river-facing lawn is ideal for weddings, and the entire property can be reserved for unforgettable social or corporate occasions.

sala bang pa-in will be led by Mr. Volkert Geertsen, a highly respected international hotelier and Cluster General Manager for sala boutique.

“The Chao Phraya is a legendary river that weaves timeless tales of Thailand’s past as it winds through the landscape. Now for the first time, curious explorers can discover the fables and folklore of Bang Pa-in, the home of the Summer Palace, while staying in a boutique hotel that delivers world-class experiences for couples, families and groups alike. Just a short distance from Bangkok, yet surrounded by unspoiled scenery, this is a captivating destination for urbanites who want to escape the city and unwind in peace and tranquility. We look forward to welcoming guests to sala bang pa-in, demonstrating our trademark sense of style and showcasing the grace and grandeur of Old Siam,” Mr. Geertsen said.

sala bang pa-in joins sala rattanakosin Bangkok, sala lanna Chiang Mai, sala ayutthaya and sala khaoyai in the sala boutique portfolio. Like its sister hotels, sala bang pa-in infuses the genuine warmth of Thai hospitality with a focus on authentic art, design and culinary creativity. And of course, guests can rest assured that their health and hygiene is SALA Hospitality Group’s top priority. Every property adheres to the SALA Safe programme, which ensures the safety of customers while preserving the core guest experience. The full list of measures can be found on the SALA Hospitality Group website.

sala bang pa-in is located just 60km north of downtown Bangkok, 28km from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, 41km from Don Mueang International Airport and 74km from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, making it ideal for domestic and international visitors alike.

Reservations for sala bang pa-in can be made now for stays from May 1. Rates start from THB 5,180 net per room per night, including breakfast and river transfer to the Summer Palace. Book now at www.salahospitality.com/bang-pa-in.