Valley House

Mama took such good care of us, with amazing breakfast and dinner. The rooms are a little quirky and unique, but exceptionally clean. This feels like the last real homestay in Ban Rai Thai.

I just walked in and asked for a room, and they showed me one straight away for only 500bht a night. The rooms were clean and beautiful, with good views near the lake. There’s a coffee and tea house downstairs, and the owners are very friendly. Ban Rak Thai is easily the most beautiful town I’ve visited in Northern Thailand. I’d highly recommend staying at Valley House!!!

It feels like home here, and the welcome is warm. A lovely little homestay just a minute from the lake.

We nearly booked somewhere else because booking and payment were awkward. They wanted a bank transfer, and our UK banks charge £10+ for international transfers. We decided to risk it, though, and found empty rooms even in peak season. I’d definitely come back. What a gem. We stayed with the family at Valley House and learned they built it over 20 years. Their son runs Valley Yurts down the road. The rooms form a shabby-chic maze over different levels. Room 8 was spotless and full of natural light, with a covered balcony looking toward the school and across the village. The lake is just a few minutes away on foot. We hired a boat for 350 baht and joined others in a magical setting while sipping local tea. In the morning, the mist over the water around 6:30-7 was a must-see. Shen, I’m not sure of the spelling, the lady of the house, was extremely welcoming. Despite the language barrier, we had some really nice conversations over breakfast, including with her granddaughter JJ. Shen also gave us local medicine for some minor ailments, which we really appreciated. Breakfast was local and delicious: rice soup with egg and vegetables, a hot corn drink, and oolong tea. We loved sitting in their home.