Marisa Resort & Spa occupies a valley away from Chiang Mai, nestled at the foot of the Doi Chiang Dao mountain range. This 3-star establishment focuses on a forest setting, wooden structures inspired by northern Thai architecture and service renowned for the owners' attentiveness and personal engagement.

Why stay here

This resort suits travelers looking to extend their Chiang Mai stopover with a few quiet nights in a less-frequented mountain region. The property combines villas and bungalows scattered throughout expansive gardens, a saltwater pool, a spa offering traditional Thai treatments and an all-day restaurant. Regular travel forum reviews highlight the active presence of the management, who personally respond to guest inquiries.

Atmosphere and setting

Chiang Dao, roughly 80 km north of Chiang Mai, marks the transition between the plains and the first mountain ridges bordering Myanmar. The resort embraces this rural character: wood, bamboo, traditional roofs, open-air terraces overlooking the forest and the river running alongside the grounds. After nightfall, the distance from urban centers makes stargazing particularly clear from the gardens.

Rooms and villas

The accommodation ranges across several categories, from simple bungalows to family villas:

• Kasalong at the pond (20 m²): rooms overlooking the resort's pond.
• Kasalong Northern Thai Style (19 m²): traditional northern Thai décor.
• Kasalong at the garden (20 m²): more contemporary spaces with garden views.
• Chom Dao Bungalow (15 m²): small bamboo bungalows, compact layout.
• Benida Bungalow (18 m²): designed with relaxation in mind.
• Doi Luang Deluxe Villa (18 m²): equipped with two king beds.
• Marisa Deluxe Villa (25 m²): the resort's namesake villa.
• Issaraparb Deluxe Villa (25 m²): dining area opening onto the garden.
• Somkid Villa Suite: capacity up to 6 people, designed for families.
• Somkid Deluxe Villa (30 m²): separate living room and office area.

Services and dining

The hotel restaurant operates all day and offers a menu blending northern Thai cuisine with Western dishes. The spa provides traditional Thai massages and treatments, and the saltwater pool remains accessible to guests. For groups, the Chaiapruk hall can accommodate up to 150 people for weddings, seminars and meetings. On-site cycling tours and river swimming round out the activities on offer.

Location and access

The resort is located 81 km from Chiang Mai and 7 km from the town of Chiang Dao, accessible via Route 107 heading toward Fang. Full address: 304 MOO 4, Muang-Ngai, Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai 50170. Expect approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Chiang Mai international airport depending on traffic.

Nearby attractions

The region boasts several sites accessible on day excursions: Chiang Dao Cave at the foot of the eponymous mountain range, elephant camps focused on rehabilitation work, hot springs, waterfalls and botanical gardens. To prepare for this northern stop, consult our Chiang Dao guide.

Extending your stay

Before or after this rural retreat, several urban addresses in Chiang Mai allow you to combine Lanna culture and comfort: De Lanna Hotel in the old town, Baan Saen Fang for its traditional teak ambiance, or Cmor by Recall for a more contemporary option.

To incorporate Marisa Resort & Spa Chiang Dao into a bespoke itinerary, explore our Thailand journeys.