Fern Resort Mae Hong Son

3 nights, room 35. We choose Fern Resort based on previous reviews and were very happy. Room 35: We asked for a room overlooking the rice paddies - even though we knew they wouldn't be green - it was beautiful and quiet and everything we wanted. It was a longer walk to the restaurant and reception - but we liked that aspect. For us, Room 35 was particularly good because it was far enough away from the infinity pool that it was private from that area and other guests noise did not carry. The room had two sections. A large bedroom with two external doors, balconies off both sides, one (the backdoor) overlooking a stream and bush and the other (the front door) overlooking the rice fields. The second section was the very large bathroom area, fridge and wardrobe and safe - closed off from the bedroom by double doors. This area had a slight musty (mould ?) smell which I couldn't locate the source - but it did not venture into the bedroom so sleeping was not a problem. Restaurant: We are the type of traveller, who usually go out exploring to eat local, on the street and not at hotels. However, in this case we ate each night at the Fern Resort because we both wanted to drink alcohol and walking to dinner was not an option. To that end we really enjoyed the setting of the restaurant and the way the lighting was done. It felt very romantic. We were grateful the restaurant was available and particularly enjoyed the Aubergine Spicy Salad and a chicken dish and a pork dish, both of which were "recommended" on the menu. For dinner there was a large Thai choice (as opposed to information given from another reviewer who said there was limited choice), there were many pages to the menu. They offered proper cocktails and cold beer. The service was as expected - delightful. For breakfast (included), there were also many choices from western (toast & jam) & eggs cooked on demand your way - to a big selection of Thai dishes, rice porridge, fried rice, noodles, assortment of Thai sweets. They changed each day we were there. Someone mentioned dogs in the restaurant. I am allergic to dogs and they did not bother me. The dogs are obviously well treated, have plenty of free room to roam around the property and are friendly but not aggressive. I saw the staff feed them after meal service - pretty good recycling of all the food that guests take and then leave on their plates in my opinion.

Excellent location, lovely climate, friendly and keen staff and , mostly, well kept and very clean facilities. Although their menu has no ‘western content’ the Thai/Chinese menu, although limited, was some of the best food we have had in Thailand The downside is that it is starting to show signs of decline. The rooms are just staring to look sad and outdated - eg our toilet leaked clean water onto the floor and the shower had little pressure, and the grouting needed replacing The breakfast menu was very limited with no cereal; and the butter was rancid but the staff couldn’t understand the problem. Also the dining room was inhabited by 4 dogs which were being fed by the staff and some guests! But don’t be put off, they are warning signs for the future, not a reason to stay at a lovely location now! It is not suitable for wheelchairs and the slopes make walking with a stick very difficult B

This was a real find. You must stay here for a couple of days if doing the Mae Hong Son loop, accessible by car or motorbike. It is not far from Mae Hong Son and is absolutely magnificent. Tranquil and with such tropical beauty. The rooms are spacious little huts with a large main area with very comfy bed and a ensuite that is also spacious. We also had a small verandah. There are 2 pools on the property with the infinity style pool offering great sunset views. The gardens are beautiful and abound with butterflies. The resort also has a coffee shop and restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Our breakfast was included and delicious. Whilst there we also had an amazing and relaxing massage. We only planned to stay one night however this place was so special we added another night!!

After growing up, visiting and living in and around MHS for many years, I finally spent a few nights at the Fern Resort. I’ve always known it was the highest rated accommodation in MHS but I was surprised at how beautiful it was and how extensive the grounds are. It was much larger than I thought with many rooms/cabins and enough space to accommodate them all scattered around rice fields and jungle paths. Each room/suite is similar but the view from the veranda/porch will vary depending on the location. Even if it is at full occupancy, there are quite places to sit and be still throughout the property in addition to the 2-3 coffee shops, dining and other areas. Rooms are well maintained with a few minor maintenance issues (see photos). Staying there in the dry hot season you will quickly realize you are in a literal oasis of green as surrounding hillsides are parched and dry but everything in Fern’s valley is still lush and green. It’s just a lovely place – very relaxing with much to explore - just on the grounds - let alone if you venture off on one of the nature/adventure trails. For the price you cannot go wrong. Staff are friendly and the majority are local hires who live in villages close by. It is 7-8 km outside of Mae Hong Son town so having your own transport definitely will make it easier but they have regular shuttles that can take you back into town. But if you want a few relaxing days surrounded by nature, this is the place to stay. You won’t be roughing it. As far as Thai eco retreats go, you won’t be disappointed. Highly recommended.