The Grand Luang Prabang is a Mekong waterfront resort on a large estate of nearly six hectares in Ban Xiengkeo, set well back from the busy centre in a rural, green part of the district. It has 75 rooms in a mix of deluxe rooms with river views, executive suites facing the Mekong and executive studio suites with mountain views, all with hardwood floors, air conditioning, ceiling fans, free Wi-Fi, an electric kettle and free bottled water. Public areas are generous: a large outdoor pool, a lounge with indoor and outdoor river views, a garden and terrace, a 24-hour gym and a spa that offers massage, reflexology and traditional healing treatments. Dining is built around the Xiengkeo restaurant, which serves international dishes mixing Western, Thai and Lao flavours, and Le Bistrot Lounge by the pool for drinks and snacks. A buffet breakfast is included each day. Complimentary vintage-style bicycles and a free shuttle van to town help bridge the distance, and private teak longboat sunset cruises on the river can be arranged. It is a relaxed base for couples and families who would rather have grounds and a pool than a street address.
Location and getting around
Because the hotel is on the river side of the district rather than on the peninsula, plan your days around the shuttle van and a tuk-tuk. By car it takes about five minutes to Wat That Luang, around seven to Mount Phousi, and around eight minutes to the Royal Palace Museum, the morning market and the night market.
The airport is about twenty minutes away. Staying here means quiet evenings and river sunsets, but not spontaneous late strolls into town, so ask the front desk for the shuttle times when you arrive.
What to expect
The pool and the river lounge are the best parts of the property, and the sunset cruise on a teak longboat is a memorable extra if you book it ahead. The restaurant is comfortable rather than adventurous, so use the shuttle for dinner in town on at least a couple of evenings.
The rooms are a good size, with the executive suites giving the most space and the river-facing deluxe rooms offering the best view for the price. Children are welcome and one younger child can stay free using existing beds, while extra beds cost extra, so check the terms when you book. Note that the building has no lift.
Good to know
This is a good-value option among the larger resorts, and the free breakfast, free parking and free shuttle make the headline rate go further than it first appears. Credit card payments at the hotel may carry a surcharge, and you should contact the hotel before arrival for check-in instructions.
Book ahead for November to February, when river-view rooms are in demand. If you want to walk to cafes and temples every morning, choose a hotel in the old town instead. If you prefer space, a pool and a river view, this is a sensible choice.
Why stay here
- ✓75 rooms and suites
- ✓Large outdoor swimming pool
- ✓Spa with massage and reflexology
- ✓Xiengkeo restaurant
- ✓Le Bistrot Lounge poolside
- ✓Free breakfast buffet
- ✓Free shuttle van to town
- ✓Complimentary bicycles
Good questions
Is The Grand Luang Prabang close to the night market?+
Not within walking distance. It is on the river side of the district, and the night market, morning market and Royal Palace Museum are each about eight minutes by car. A free shuttle van runs into town.
Is breakfast included?+
A buffet breakfast is offered each day at no extra charge, with Western, Thai and Lao dishes. Check the details of your rate when you book.
Can I arrange a river cruise from the hotel?+
Yes, private teak longboat sunset cruises on the Mekong can be arranged through the hotel. Book ahead in the busy months.
