Ichose to stay at the Chakrabongse Villas situated in the heart of Old Bangkok and set on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. Chakrabongse Villas is an ideal base to enjoy what Bangkok has to offer. The villas provide a selection of different room types: there is the Chinese Suite, Riverside Villa, Thai House, Garden Suite and B&B Rooms, each tastefully designed to suit their client’s needs and surrounded by lush, manicured tropical gardens. Staying in Chakrabongse Villas makes one forget that you are actually in the middle of a large city.
The Riverside Villa is splendid, a classic, Thai style, teak apartment placed right on the riverfront with gorgeous views across to the Temple of the Dawn. This selfcontained, luxurious suite has a large double bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom, study, sitting room and a private verandah.
Built in 1908 by HRH Prince Chakrabongse, Chakrabongse House was originally used by the prince while attending royal ceremonies in the Grand Palace and for picnics and excursions on the river. Later, after the 1932 revolution, it became the residence of HRH Prince Chula Chakrabongse, a writer and historian.
As member of Secret Retreats, a collection of small charming boutique hotels across Asia, the restaurant at Chakrabongse Villas is exceptional. Sitting directly on the riverbank and facing the famous Wat Arum, the restaurant serves Thai dishes using the original recipes of Prince Chakrabongse’s family. Open only for lunch and dinner the restaurant offers a set menu which changes each evening.
