If you happen to arrive at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai around 5 p.m., you’ll be greeted by more than just the friendly staff. Two massive water buffaloes—one of them albino—serve as a welcoming committee, alongside a dozen gardeners and farmers who frequently serenade guests upon arrival. This isn’t just a manufactured performance; they’re all full-time employees of the resort, which is located on a working rice farm in Northern Thailand’s Mae Rim Valley. The landscape—lush jungles, sprawling rice paddies and mountains in the distance—is nothing short of spectacular.
It’s clear that every detail has been carefully considered at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai, from complimentary passed hors devours during the daily poolside “sundowner,” to the exquisite flower bowl arrangements scattered throughout the property. Staff gardeners canvas the grounds every morning at 5 a.m. in search of vibrant blossoms to use in their masterpieces, which can contain more than 500 fresh cut flowers each.
The rooms, too, are masterpieces in their own right, incorporating traditional Thai architecture and luxurious amenities. Many of them have private outdoor verandas with a daybed and dining table—ideal for morning room service. When you order breakfast, the staff will arrive with a toaster in hand and toast your bread on the spot, to ensure it’s served perfectly crispy and warm.
While each of the hotel’s 81 rooms offers something unique, there’s one that guests request most often. Michael Branham, the Four Seasons’ General Manager, gives us the inside scoop below.
The most requested room:
Upper Rice Terrace Pavilions
What makes it so special:
Upper Rice Terrace Pavilions are perfect for guests who desire a blend of seclusion and spaciousness. They have vaulted ceilings and expansive views of paddy fields, stretching into the gently rolling hills beyond. Guests can rock on the swing sofa in their very own outdoor Thai sala, enjoy an amazing scene of the terraced rice fields and the pond below. The interiors are thoughtfully decorated with Thai arts and crafts, offering that rare combination of modern luxury and cultural heritage.
The rate:
Our rate starts from $700/night.
Celebrity guests:
We have the opportunity to welcome many celebrities both locally and internationally. Unfortunately as guest privacy is our top priority we are unable to share the list! But as you can imagine, lots from Hollywood to Bollywood, from Royalty to Head of States, from Premier League to NBA, and from Fortune 500 to Forbes.
Your personal favorite:
I love our Pool Villa.
Because…
Our Pool Villas are surrounded by water on three sides and have absolutely stunning views of the lush garden, trees and mountains beyond. They are the perfect choice for couples that desire total privacy and aquatic luxury. Guests can enjoy the private pool, swing on the sundeck, or a private spa treatment at the outdoor Thai sala. These expansive villas offer an outdoor shower and lush views of tropical foliage. The airy interiors have elements of local architecture, and playful touches like an ornamental bed canopy and skylights.
Fun fact:
The resort has four in-house water buffaloes. Their job involves walking around the Resort’s ground to greet and socialize with guests. In return, their employee benefits include personal butler, free accommodation, free meals and snacks, and bathing service daily!
