The Floathouse, Kanchanaburi

The traditional thatched, airy villas blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, constructed from bamboo and teakwood, with voile curtains and high ceilings to let in the breeze. Air-conditioning is also an option. Each villa opens to an outside deck leading directly to the water, where guests can relax and enjoy the serene environment from their own deck chairs or swing bench.

The Pontoon Restaurant serves buffet and à la carte meals throughout the day, offering a mix of international and local dishes. The Float House is also linked by a short walk or bike ride to its sister resort, River Kwai Resotel, which has two swimming pools and restaurants available for Float House guests. Guests can also explore the nearby Lawa Cave or visit the local Mon Village, where many of the staff come from.

Kanchanaburi, approximately three hours from Bangkok, offers plenty to enjoy over a few days in the region. Alongside the fascinating history of the Thai-Burma railway construction and the River Kwai Bridge during World War II, there are numerous nature-based activities to indulge in, such as mountain biking, trekking, canoeing, bamboo rafting, longtail boat rides to a traditional village, and visits to waterfalls and local temples. Much of these activities can be experienced during your journey to and from the resort, allowing you ample time to enjoy onsite activities as well.

Early this morning, depart south from Bangkok towards the garden province of Samut Songkhram in the Mae Klong River delta area. Your day starts with a visit to a unique country market situated along the railway tracks, where locals gather to trade a variety of goods. From here, continue to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, a prime example of how floating markets appeared decades ago, despite its current popularity among tourists. Enjoy a paddleboat journey through scenic waterways and then visit a local family producing coconut sugar syrup at their teak house.

The day continues with a drive to Kanchanaburi, where you'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the famous 'Bridge on the River Kwai', constructed by Allied prisoners of war during World War II. Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum and stroll through the historical lanes of Pak Preak community, adorned with charming shop houses dating back to the reign of King Rama V. From here you’ll be driven to the pier for your transfer to The Floathouse, your home for the next two nights.

After a hearty breakfast, take a short drive to visit the Hellfire Pass Museum before embarking on a trek through the nearby canyon. The walk along the Memorial Walking Trail offers views of the hills of Myanmar. Guests are provided with a free audio guide narrated by former POWs, helping them understand the conditions endured by those working on the line during World War II.

After breakfast, depart for Erawan Waterfall - a beautiful seven-tiered waterfall. You will be able to walk up to each tier of these picturesque falls and cool off with a swim in the falls’ natural pools.

After a local lunch, take a short train ride along the infamous ‘death railway’ through Kwai Noi gorge and return to Bangkok. Alternative options today include a visit to Prasar Muang Singh, a Khmer Temple complex dating back to the Angkorian period. OR incorporate a visit to a nearby elephant sanctuary.