Veranda Chiang Mai – The High Resort, a serene luxury spa retreat dedicated to pure relaxation, has opened in a private valley with spectacular panoramic views over the forested hills of northern Thailand.

The new resort is sister to the chic and highly successful Veranda Resort Hua Hin, which has become a favourite getaway for Bangkok’s trendsetters.

Terraced gardens, water features including a dramatic infinity-edged hillside swimming pool and feng shui landscaping create a zen-like symphony of natural balance and harmony amid this superb example of contemporary Asian design.

The new boutique hideaway nestled in hills on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, the ancient northern capital renowned for its rich culture, traditional crafts and a wealth of tourist attractions including the famous Night Bazaar, a zoo and ‘night safari’, championship golf courses and elephant jungle treks.

Peacefully isolated from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city, Veranda Chiang Mai – The High Resort comprises two distinct zones – one representing the cultural heritage of the north and the other in contemporary Asian style.

It features just 69 rooms, in four different styles, all with large private balconies and stunning views over the forest, mountain streams, rice and tea terraces.

These include 56 Valley Deluxe open-plan rooms overlooking the valley, 6 Jacuzzi Pavilions with sunken spa Jacuzzis, 6 Rice Terrace Pavilions overlooking rice terraces with private plunge pools, and an exclusive Presidential Pool Villa with two bedrooms, a living room with piano, pantry and dining area, a private study, swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

All air conditioned accommodation is equipped with modern amenities including LCD TV, DVD player, ipod dock, free WIFI, IDD telephone, fully stocked mini bar and Thann spa bathroom products.

Rooms have either king or twin beds, with luxurious and comfortable duvets, open style bathrooms and balcony day beds.

Dining options include The Higher Room, a fusion of contemporary northern Thai design, set high above the valley, serving international cuisine with an extensive wine cellar and Rabiang Cha, on the lower plains of the valley, surrounded by rice and tea terraces. Both restaurants offer al fresco outdoor dining allowing guests to take in the stunning scenery.

Rabiang Cha is a modern version of a traditional Thai rice granary, serving cuisine based on northern Thai recipes with a modern touch.

Afternoon Tea is served daily at Rabiang Cha from 3pm–5.30pm while The Lobby Bar with an open terrace serves cocktails, smoothies and fresh coffee.

Room Service and Private Dining options are available on request, and can be arranged in a variety of locations throughout the resort.

Meeting and Banquet facilities are available for groups from 10 to 200 in a choice of three venues. Special theme parties can also be arranged at various locations.

The resort’s infinity-edged Swimming Pool is spectacularly located high in the valley, commanding amazing panoramic views of the forests below.

The Veranda Spa offers deluxe pampering in a relaxing forest setting. Its private cottages are self-contained spas with large sunken baths, steam rooms, showers and twin treatment beds ideal for couples. The ‘Ozone’ rooftop infinity pool affords sublime mountain views.

Daily Activities are organized in a purpose-built ‘Cultural Pavilion’ allowing guests to embrace local culture. Activities include Thai cooking classes, T-shirt or handkerchief tie-dye instruction, yoga, stress release massage classes, Tai Chi, and northern Thai banner craftwork.

A Kid’s club keeps youngsters entertained with educational toys and daily programs of indoor and outdoor activities, allowing parents peace of mind whether shopping in town or relaxing in the spa.

A Fitness Room also features the latest modern workout equipment.

Offering a total zen experience from the moment of arrival, the resort is distinguished by superb personal service around-the-clock and warm and friendly staff.

Scheduled mini-bus shuttle services ferry guests to and from both the airport and Chiang Mai city centre for shopping and sightseeing.

The resort is a member of Small Luxury Hotels (SLH).