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La Folie Lodge

Don Daeng, Southern Laos

On Don Daeng, between the banks of the Mekong River, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had pitched up on a remote Thai island rather than in land-locked Laos. That impression is mostly thanks to the deserted, sandy beach directly in front of the characterful La Folie. Facing Champasak, and just minutes by boat from the magnificent Wat Phou, La Folie is ideally located for exploring the region’s cultural sites when you’re not relaxing in castaway bliss.

The rooms at La Folie are simply and tastefully decorated using local materials, and feature private terraces with views over the Mekong or the hotel's tropical gardens. With a focus on sustainability at the fore, La Folie have taken great care to follow eco principles during the construction of the resort and, while this may have left it feeling a little too basic for some, we find it charmingly rustic (air-con in the rooms is an unexpected bonus). Arrive by boat, dip your toes into the swimming pool (the only one in the region) and enjoy fresh, locally-sourced food at the terrace restaurant.

Location

In southern Laos, just a 20-minute boat ride from Champasak, La Folie has the perfect setting to escape the daily rush. Journey there by boat along a short stretch of the Mekong, adding to the adventure.

A little more detail

  • Swimming pool

  • Complimentary bicycle hire 

  • Tranquil spa 

  • Air-con

From a client…

Nothing can prepare you for La Folie - it's a very special property in the most unique location.

Image gallery

Bungalow at La Folie
Bungalow at La Folie
Balcony overlooking the river at La Folie
Balcony overlooking the river at La Folie
Breakfast buffet at La Folie
Breakfast buffet at La Folie
Aerial view of La Folie
Aerial view of La Folie
Pool with sun loungers at La Folie
Pool with sun loungers at La Folie
Massage room at La Folie
Massage room at La Folie
Mekong view bungalow at La Folie
Mekong view bungalow at La Folie

Why we love it

Discover what to expect from staying at La Folie Lodge

Riverside R&R

La Folie is the perfect base for exploring southern Laos. It may sound clichéd, but it truly offers something for everyone. Beach relaxation in a landlocked country, the opportunity to explore rural life in Laos, and adventurous kayaking and cycling. It’s the ideal spot to spend time at the end of your trip, leaving you refreshed and energised.

Aerial view beach at La Folie Lodge

Explore the island

If you can peel yourself away from the shade of a palm tree by the pool, head out on foot or by bicycle to discover the treasures of Don Daeng Island. Steeped in culture, it's hard to think of somewhere that would offer a more tangible experience of rural Laos.

Don Daeng Island

What can you do there?

Besides being the perfect place for a bit of barefoot R&R, there’s a huge amount to explore around the island. Meander through mangrove gardens and fishing villages; discover plains of rice fields; watch buffalo grazing from unspoilt sandy beaches; and jump onboard a boat for a thrilling island hopping tour. Arrive back at the hotel, kick off your shoes and take a dip in the refreshing pool - idyllic. 

Boat on the Mekong River at sunset

Sustainability Focus

Sustainability is at the heart of La Folie. Locally sourced materials have been used in the construction of the property, facilitated by local teams from the island and neighbouring villages. The resort is committed to supporting local communities, assisting with school renovations, collecting donations and employing staff from the island (who make up 98% of the team). Fresh, locally-grown herbs and vegetables are used in the restaurant and all organic waste from the kitchen is used for compost in their garden. 

We think you may like this journey…

Laos Unlocked

A two-week journey through Laos’ laid-back cities and rural landscapes, exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, meeting the friendly locals and going on an adventure or two.

Price from: £3,590 US$4,090
Ideal length 16 days
Take me there
Laos journey culture light adventure

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