Howie's Homestay Chiang Mai
Thailand, Thailand
Highlights
What you need to know
- Rooms: Howie’s Homestay reflects the charm of northern Thailand with its blend of traditional Lanna design and luxurious detail. The Teak Pavilion offers a spacious, studio-style layout with a king-size bed, vaulted ceilings, and panoramic mountain views — perfect for couples seeking privacy. The Family Pavilion includes three bedrooms with a mix of king-size and twin beds, making it ideal for families or small groups. Both pavilions are crafted from reclaimed teak and decorated with handcrafted bronze accents and timeless local art.
- Sleeps: Accommodates up to 8 guests across two exclusive-use pavilions in a private, all-inclusive retreat.
- Pool & Gardens: The property centres around a serene, infinity-edge pool surrounded by tropical gardens and shaded by mature trees. Adjacent is the open-air dining pavilion, where guests gather for leisurely meals and sundowners. Landscaped grounds filled with native flora create a peaceful, immersive escape into nature.
- Features: Designed by acclaimed architect Bill Bensley, the villa features hand-carved woodwork, open-plan living spaces, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Guests enjoy daily home-cooked Thai meals by the villa chef, with menus tailored to personal preferences. Every corner of the homestay reflects a deep connection to local culture and craftsmanship, offering a warm, family-style atmosphere with hotel-level polish.
- Staff: The homestay is privately hosted by Howie and his wife Jerri, who welcome guests with genuine hospitality. With a villa chef and attentive household team, every detail — from meals to sightseeing tips — is thoughtfully taken care of.
- Activities: Located just outside Chiang Mai, Howie’s Homestay offers easy access to temple visits, artisan workshops, and guided hikes through the nearby hills. On-site, guests can relax by the pool, enjoy garden strolls, or take part in informal Thai cooking sessions. For those seeking cultural immersion and peaceful retreat, this is a place where slow travel truly comes to life.
- Mountain serenity: Nestled in the foothills just outside Chiang Mai, Howie’s Homestay offers uninterrupted views of northern Thailand’s lush mountains and tropical gardens. The peaceful setting is a true sanctuary, with beautifully landscaped grounds and complete privacy—ideal for quiet mornings, golden sunsets, and reconnecting with nature.
- Seamless indoor-outdoor living: Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the pavilions showcase soaring ceilings, hand-carved teak, and wide, open-air verandas that blur the line between indoors and out. Living spaces flow effortlessly into the gardens and central pool area, creating a relaxed, elegant atmosphere surrounded by nature.
- Tailored dining experiences: With your own villa chef preparing every meal, dining at Howie’s is as personal as it is delicious. Expect home-cooked northern Thai cuisine made with fresh local ingredients, all served in the open-air dining pavilion. Meals are adapted to your tastes—whether that’s a traditional Thai feast, a light al fresco lunch, or a casual evening barbecue.
- Wellness and restoration: While there’s no formal spa, the setting itself is restorative—from leisurely swims in the infinity-edge pool to slow mornings in the gardens. In-villa massages, yoga sessions, and mindfulness practices can be arranged on request, all in the calming embrace of the mountains.
- Experiences: From cycling through the scenic Mae Rim Valley and exploring misty mountain trails in Chiang Dao to floating across the peaceful Mae Ngat Reservoir, Howie’s Homestay offers locally guided adventures. Guests can wander the villa’s sustainable garden, buzzing with butterflies and birds, or journey to the top of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest mountain. Whether it’s boutique shopping in Chiang Mai or dining at a hilltop tea plantation, every experience is thoughtfully tailored by your well-travelled hosts.
Why we love Howie’s Homestay
The villa itself is a work of art, with Bill Bensley’s unmistakable flair and handpicked details in every corner—but what truly sets it apart is its heart. Howie and Jerri bring an authenticity and warmth that make this place feel less like a showpiece and more like a cherished home.
Start to planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our specialists
Gallery
Entrance, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Exterior, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Saltwater pool, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Saltwater pool, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Pool at night, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Teak pavilion bedroom, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Bedroom, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Bedroom, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Dining, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Dining, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Living room, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Gardens, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Gardens, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Gardens, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Exterior, Howie's Homestay, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Good to know
How to get there
Howie’s Homestay is just a 30-minute drive from Chiang Mai International Airport, which receives frequent domestic and regional flights, including direct routes from Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Private transfers are included and personally arranged by your hosts.
Are children welcome?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome at Howie’s Homestay.
What's nearby
Doi Inthanon National Park (45-minute drive): Home to Thailand’s tallest mountain, this national park offers scenic nature trails, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views from the twin pagodas dedicated to the late King and Queen.
Hill Tribe Villages (30-45 minutes drive): Explore the traditional villages of northern Thailand’s indigenous tribes, where you can learn about their rich culture and heritage, and visit local artisans and markets.
Mae Ngat Reservoir (30-minute drive): A serene spot for boat rides and relaxation, the Mae Ngat Reservoir is nestled in the Mae Taeng Valley, offering a peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Chiang Mai Old City (45-minute drive): The heart of Chiang Mai, this historic area is home to ancient temples, bustling markets, and traditional Thai architecture. Spend a day exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city.
Elephant Nature Park (60-minute drive): A sanctuary for rescued elephants, this ethical conservation park offers guests the chance to learn about elephant welfare while interacting with these magnificent animals in a responsible way.
