Phuphanam Resort is nestled amongst the gently rolling hills of the Phu Rua district in Thailand's northern province of Loei; about an hours drive from the Loei airport. There are about 75 rooms between the three low-rise buildings - the original stone and wooden structure and two later modern additions.

The resort is situated on an expansive forested property, which also contains working orange tree orchards, a large orchid flower nursery, and some Thai farm animals. There is also a large bird aviary, which has some parrots, peacocks, and a pair of rare Great Hornbills.

There is a large unheated pool, indoor and outdoor massage facilities, and a basic gym. These areas are clean and in good repair. The restaurant serves mainly Thai food, along with some basic western entrees. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The main activities in the area include visiting the national parks in the area, as well as touring some of the cultural villages of the hill people who populate the area. The Loei area has extensive flower and fruit cultivation and depending on the time of year, everything from strawberries to avocados to macadamia nuts may be available. One of Thailand's largest wineries, Chateau de Loei, is located nearby.

I would describe the resort as a rustic country lodge, especially the main building, with its teekwood floors, stone walls, and wooden rafters. I would definitely recommend a room in this building as they are comfortable and spacious but don't expect allot of luxury as you're in the country. There are warm water showers for example, but not at the sinks. The main reason to stay here is to relax and catch up on some reading or take in the local nature hikes. There is free WiFi throughout.

I throughly enjoyed my stay here. The clean and cool air at this time of year is rejuvenating and the clear nites make evening stargazing a delight. Be advised that western creature comforts are few and far between in the general area, which is a bit surprising with the national parks in the area being a big tourist draw. If you need them, one should stock up on essentials at the Big C or Makkro stores outside the airport in Loei on the way to the resort as otherwise, near the resort are only local markets and a few 7-11s. There is an Amazon Cafe at the PTT station a few kilometers from the resort (driving back towards Loei).

http://www.phuphanam.com/

Thank you for the report. This is very similar to what I am thinking about doing next month. I wonder if you would be so kind as provide a little bit more information about this place. How much did you pay? Which building did you stay in? Are there any facilities at all for children, as we have a 2.5 year old son? Was the food good? What kind of transportation options are available if I don't drive myself? The idea is to lose the car keys once I get there and rely on my feet to "kick rocks" for a few days to foget about life in the city. I also want to give my son some exposure to the "greener" things in life because I feel he is just too accustomed to concrete, traffic, motorbikes, u-turns, and loosly organized chaos. A return to nature and peace and quiet for a few days are most certainly needed.

Thanks in advance!

http://www.phuphanam.com/

Yes, that's the place. Also info and reviews on Trip Advisor and listed, with reviews, on Agoda. For these more out of the way Thai hotels and resorts, I find some of the "international" reviewers a bit harsh if all their Western expectations are not met. We here in ail and know one must sometimes go with the flow.

Thank you for the report. This is very similar to what I am thinking about doing next month. I wonder if you would be so kind as provide a little bit more information about this place. How much did you pay? Which building did you stay in? Are there any facilities at all for children, as we have a 2.5 year old son? Was the food good? What kind of transportation options are available if I don't drive myself? The idea is to lose the car keys once I get there and rely on my feet to "kick rocks" for a few days to foget about life in the city. I also want to give my son some exposure to the "greener" things in life because I feel he is just too accustomed to concrete, traffic, motorbikes, u-turns, and loosly organized chaos. A return to nature and peace and quiet for a few days are most certainly needed.

Thanks in advance!

I paid about 1200 baht for a standard room but was upgraded to a Deluxe Room upon check-in (the resort had a low occupancy during my stay) through Agoda. My room was in the main lodge building, Baan Phu Pha. The rooms in this wing have a rustic wood and stone motif and I really enjoyed them.

I didn't notice any facilities specifically for children. However, there are ample grounds for ambling around and there are the farm animals to see, as well as the bird aviary and a duck pond. The food was very good...albeit mostly Thai. They did have standard western breakfasts, with thick sliced pumpkin bread which was treat. As for local transport, I would really recommend having a car if you plan to visit the parks and other attractions in the area. There is a shuttle service within the resort but to go anywhere outside, you need a car as I didn't notice local public transport (songtows).

If you do decide to go, I'm sure you will enjoy it as the area is very scenic and the air and sky are crisp, clear, and clean.

Very nice pictures and great trip report. Thanks for sharing!

Nice report!

I see the Phu Pha Man hills most every morning when walking the dogs.

Gives me a weak reminder of viewing the Swiss alps from far (just the ice is missing)

The clean and cool air at this time of year is rejuvenating and the clear nites make evening stargazing a delight.

When one goes there in "deep winter" (around New Year) don't forget sweater, long trousers and socks.

Some expats from the south will not believe how cold it can get.

Exact KhunBENQ ;

some morning below zero degree ; and we don't have heating in our pickups .

and many vehicles in the ditch on the two sides of the road 203

Nice Resort! Have you slept in a tent in Pru Rue? I had an amazing time - I went there last year in the off-season. My tent was literally the only one there. It was so serene and special to wake up with the first light of the day.