Rabeang Pasak Tree House Resort

On a single-lane highway dividing a thick forest, a hand-painted wooden sign points to the resort's entrance. If there's anywhere for adults to relive their childhood memories and children to build them, the Rabeang Pasak is it. Referred to as magical by past guests and at one with nature, its 10 2012-built tree houses were all handcrafted by the owner who is a retired architect, and they're separated by cleared paths and wooden bridges. Shack-like, the reception area has angled wood beams, rustic walls made of chopped logs, and sit-up stools where guests can receive free tea and coffee. Though the vibe is calm and quiet, families and couples can take part in many activities: Toasting marshmallows by the fire at night, bicycle excursions and hiking, fishing in the creek, and wandering the mimosas and winding liana vines that cocoon the resort with ground-level trees and lofty canopy heights. Note, however, that there's lots of winding steps and unsurprisingly, a lot of bugs and mosquitoes.

A 90-minute drive from Chiang Mai and its airport, the resort's middle-of-nowhere location adds to its charm. Aside from a few sights of natural beauty, there's nothing in the immediate vicinity. Some waterfalls and bat caves are within cycling distance, though, and the hotel provides a map of trails to reach these spots. Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls can be reached in 30 minutes by car and Mae Ngat Dam is a 40-minute drive. Additionally, a daily shuttle runs from the resort to Chiang Mai and the owners can arrange arrival pick-up (fees apply). 

Reached by carved stone or wooden steps, tree houses resemble illustrations of a fairytale children's book. Each has a nature-inspired name and is signposted with the one material that holds the resort together -- wood. Winding stairs lead to cozy but basic bedrooms where book-filled shelves and hanging painted ornaments surround simple but well-presented double and twin beds. Accenting deep-wood tones, brightly colored bedspreads with matching pillows light up the rooms, with red-and-white stripes in the Coconut room, blue-and-white plaid in Jack Fruit, and fun elephant print in Rabeang. Shelves are filled with bronze bells, carved animal statues, and wine bottles. Tree houses are multi-level, with river or garden view balconies -- some with fabric or wicker armchairs.

Six tree houses hold two people and the two family ones -- Coconut and Star can sleep four. The oldest, Jack Fruit, has a separate seating area and river-view veranda with picnic table, while Bamboo has its own private nature pool. Amenities are limited -- no in-room Wi-Fi, TVs, or mini-fridges -- but there are electricity, hot running water, and power outlets. Neatly presented towels, toilet paper, and basic toiletries are by each bed; a few hangers and hooks line walls; and there's a mirror. Fans and electric mosquito repellant are also provided. Bathrooms are outdoors but shielded by wood panels, use standard plumbing, and have modern sinks and toilets.

A decent amount of facilities are offered to keep guests occupied while at the hotel. There isn't anywhere else to eat in the immediate area, but the food served at the restaurant receives positive reviews. A Western breakfast consists of cooked-to-order eggs, hot dogs, toast, and fruit, and is served in an outdoor area of wooden tables and chairs shielded by parasols. Lunch and dinner are also offered, with fried tilapia and cashew stir fries on the menu. The owners can cater to any dietary requirements if told in advance. Wi-Fi is free in the dining area. Guests should note the dinner window is just one hour -- 6 to 7 p.m. -- and that the reception closes at 6pm. A kiosk at the front desk sells soft drinks, snacks, beer, and tobacco. Guests can help out in the vegetable garden, carve clay elephants, and there are plenty of games and activities for kids. The owners also have somewhat rickety bicycles and fishing equipment that can borrowed for free.