The Four Seasons, located in the Mae Rim Valley 20 minutes from Chiang Mai, consists of a collection of pavilions arranged in the manner of one of the region’s small hillside villages. Instead of a temple as its focal point, however, the resort revolves around a palatial three-story spa. Guests can visit the temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a 14th-century complex believed to house relics of the Buddha. Accommodations Two-story pavilions house 64 guest rooms (top-floor units have the best views). The 16 suites come with plunge pools and personal housekeepers. Recreation Cooking classes, garden tours, Muay Thai kickboxing sessions, yoga, tennis, river rafting, and horseback riding. Dining The nua pad prig Thai dum (wok-fried beef with black peppercorn sauce) at Sala Mae Rim is a must. Worthy Diversion Don the traditional sua mor hom (short-sleeve cotton shirt) and work alongside rice farmers, transplanting seedlings from beds to paddies on the premises. Rates Pavilion rooms begin at $475, and residences are available from $1,900.
