Luxury Summer Escapes in Thailand – Explore Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and Golden Triangle with Four Seasons

Radiant sunshine, and warm, welcoming oceans are readily associated with Thailand – a tropical destination that enjoys what is its best weather of the year in summer. “The ‘green season’ makes way for lush tropical landscapes at its finest - with clear skies and sunny days,” smiles Sean Mosher, General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Tented Camp Golden Triangle. Together with its kaleidoscopic mix of culture, exotic food, and rich heritage, it is easy to see why Thailand remains the premier destination for travellers through spring and summer. 

Representing the finest of what Thailand has to offer in terms of both landscapes and experiences, the exclusive collection of Four Seasons Resorts Thailand is an easy choice for those looking to travel during the summer months. Ideally suited for multi-generational families travelling together, the exceptional accommodations, dining experiences, cultural and adventure activities make this the perfect time to take a mid-year vacation. Jasjit Assi, General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, chimes in: “It is the sheer variety of experiences on offer that makes this a perfect summer holiday hotspot. From a seaside sojourn in Samui to the wellness wonderland in Chiang Mai, and beyond with the wilderness setting of the Golden Triangle, the Four Seasons portfolio in Thailand has it all covered.”  

Unveiling the Ultimate Summer Collection by Four Seasons Thailand

A lively time of the year in Koh Samui, summer brings with it a balmy sea breeze and gorgeous skies at both sunrise and sunset, giving active outdoor adventurers a true taste of the island life. At Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, the Villas and Residence Rentals collection with its two-to-five-bedroom residences are absolutely ideal for larger families on holiday. Expansive outdoor spaces, a private infinity pool with a view over the Gulf of Thailand and dedicated personal assistants to cater to every detail make for the ultimate staycation experience. “With daily breakfast for all, in-residence BBQ once during the stay, and a spa therapy included, “The Residence Escape offers all the luxury of a Four Seasons holiday with some summer incentives,” shares Resort Manager Hannes Schneider.  

Swathed in verdant green, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is an ode to Northern Thailand’s majestic Lanna past, giving peace seekers an opportunity to reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. With ornate villas and residences offering stunning views of the quilted gardens and tiered rice paddies, the opulent Private Residences ensconced within come with expansive social spaces and private pools. “This summer, we are offering special privileges including spa treatments, and family activities for those staying at the residences with our Residence Escape package,” shares Resort Manager Anthony Tschudin.  

Further up north, the dense bamboo jungles of the Golden Triangle offer another unique holiday setting that perfectly describes “Reverse Tourism.” The two bedroom Explorer’s Lodge at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is the ultimate hideout with a unique setting and layout that makes it perfectly suited for children over the age of 10 years. “Specially tailored dining and spa experiences, and a host of camp and destination exploration activities makes the two-to-three night adventure packages a complete family experience,” says Paweena Waraha, Camp Manager. 

Culinary Excellence Rooted in Thai Heritage

Paying homage to authentic Southern Thai Cuisine, Koh Thai Kitchen with its signature dishes such as the massaman nua highlights a rich culinary heritage that transcends borders from Malaysia to Myanmar. Chef de Cuisine Sumalee Khunpet shares her deep connection with Thai cooking, describing it as a shared heritage and representative of the diversity within Thai cuisine. With Executive Chef Ruslan Shipunov’s wide range of expertise in French, Italian, Russian and Middle East cuisines, the resort reflects this richness with some inspired seasonal brilliance. At CoCoRum, Bar Manager Thom Geerts is an expert with a penchant for exquisite cocktails and a connoisseur of the finest Caribbean rum.  

In the “cultural capital of Thailand,” KHAO by Four Seasons is raising the stakes by reimagining cherished pan-Thai recipes, for which it earned recognition in the Michelin Guide 2023. Sous chef Naruchit Taingtrong renders classic flavours in his signature style with favourite pairings such as tangy tamarind sauce, Nam Pla Whan, with fresh river prawns. At North by Four Seasons, guests can look forward to a superior grill and barbeque experience, where the focus is farm-to-table fare and the highest quality meat. Inspired by traditional Lanna teak-houses of the nobility, the Rim Tai Kitchen sets the stage for an intimate Chef’s Table and or a cooking session where guests can learn first-hand the secrets of Thai cooking.    

As the sun sets over Myanmar, enjoying a sundowner at Burma Bar is the perfect way to round off adventures of the day at the Golden Triangle. “With numerous scenic spots for a picnic in the wilds our trusty old refurbished Land Rover offers the perfect meal-on-wheels excursion for those who like a little adventure,” grins Paweena.   

Adventures in Nature, Sea, and Culture

In the cradle of the gentle Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui lends itself to aquatic escapades in the summer with easy access to the extensive coral reefs that fringe the island and harbour a wealth of marine life. “At Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, we are committed to caring for and protecting this fragile ecosystem through our dedicated Coral Conservation Project. Guests may join guided snorkelling tours of the reef and witness first-hand the breathtaking variety of marine life that inhabit it,” explains Hannes. “The resort also offers a combination of non-motorised water sports such as kayaking, e-foiling, and stand-up-paddling for those who like to feel the sand and surf.” Sundown is always special on Koh Samui, and guests can chase the perfect sunset aboard the resort’s private yacht, or simply cruise the turquoise waters around the stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park. “A private cinema experience complete with popcorn and snacks, or a family beach picnic, can be arranged on request by our team to maximise your time together and make your stay with us truly memorable,” adds Assi. 

Unique for its juxtaposition of old within the new, Chiang Mai is an epitome of slow travel, providing an incredible insight into an age-old Thai culture that is reinventing itself within the 21st century context. A more recent coffee culture thrives here with renowned cafes such  as Ristr8to, Maled Coffee Roasters, and Akha Ama, providing the perfect cuppa to start to the day. A creative renaissance with roots in the past makes certain places such as Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman), Santitham, and Baan Kang Wat emerging hubs for art and craft enthusiasts with their trendy cafes and boutique art spaces. “Our concierge will be delighted to organise personal shopping experiences as well as local gems that can’t be missed when you stay with us,” smiles Tschudin. For those who would like to get a first-hand experience of the local arts and crafts, the cultural centre Chaan Baan offers a range of experiences including clay modelling and tie-and-dye. The city comes alive at night with its vibrant night markets, including the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Sunday Night Market Walking Street, and Saturday Night Market Walking Street, where you can shop for unique treasures and savour delectable street food. The Old City walls and the numerous magnificent temples such as Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Suan Dok, add a further dimension of heritage and history to the destination. 

“For some uniquely local experiences during a stay at the camp we offer a few local gems such as the Fishing with Locals trip where guests get to try traditional fish-trapping and bamboo fishing techniques with local fishermen along the Mekong River,” says Paweena. “Boating trips along the Ruak River, which straddles the borders between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, aboard our traditional long-tail boat offers a unique insight into the local way of life.” The idyllic charm of Chiang Saen's countryside with its picturesque villages, terraced paddy fields, and magnificent teak forests make for a fabulous cycling excursion from the camp. A guided and mildly challenging Countryside Bike Tour, suitable for families, can be done at a comfortable pace and offers breathtaking views of the mountain scenery. 

Wellness Sanctuaries Designed for Rejuvenation

Thailand is renowned the world over for its exemplary wellness practices and its elevated spa experiences and Four Seasons Resorts Thailand has created their own sanctuaries of wellbeing for guests to invest in their health and rejuvenation. At Chiang Mai, Wara Cheewa Spa offers intuitive therapies inspired by the spiritual aspects of Eastern wellness philosophies. With crafted experiences that can be tailored to meet specific needs, the treatments offered are holistic and can be paired with the art of mindful living program that combines special diets, healing, and spa for lasting health benefits.  

As a haven for wellness experts, Samui is the ultimate destination for holistic healing. The Secret Garden Spa features outstanding signature therapies that draw on the richness of local traditions. Seeking to harmonise the balance between the four principal elements Din (Earth), Nam (Water), Lom (Wind), Fai (Fire), these therapies use local herbs and traditional techniques to enhance well-being. Along with a diverse portfolio of visiting practitioners, the resort presents itself as a haven of mindfulness and slow living. 

Perched at the edge of the jungle, the Tented Camp’s open-air spa offers a one-of-a-kind rejuvenating experience in the Golden Triangle. Elevated Thai healing practices infused with wild botanicals under the canopy of the bamboo forest this invigorating setting is highlighted by lilting birdsong and the gentle murmur of nature. 

“With its unparalleled wealth of natural beauty, cultural offerings, and creative vision, Thailand by Four Seasons is an easy and rewarding choice for travellers seeking transformational experiences. So simply book your stay with us this summer season and leave the magic to us,” echo Sean and Jasjit.

Book a stay now and unlock exclusive seasonal packages, spa indulgences, and unforgettable family experiences in Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, or the Golden Triangle.