Phum Baitang Resort, Siem Reap: a must-visit luxury eco-friendly village
Phum Baitang is the top luxury resort in Siem Reap and one of Cambodia’s finest hotels. Located in a quiet rural area, it provides a peaceful escape from the busy streets, yet it’s only a 15-minute ride to the Angkor ruins, the Old Market, and the airport. The resort offers tuk-tuk and car services for easy travel.
Designed by a Parisian firm, Phum Baitang recreates a traditional Cambodian village with rustic pavilions spread across 8 acres of lush gardens and rice fields. A wooden walkway connects the lobby, pools, and restaurants, allowing guests to enjoy views of the working rice farm. The rice is harvested three times a year and given to guests as a farewell gift.
The resort blends rustic charm with luxury, using natural materials like wood and bamboo. It has 45 wooden stilted villas, some with private terraces and others with plunge pools. I stayed in a terrace villa that featured a kingsize bed, a sitting area, and a spacious bathroom with a freestanding tub and rain shower.
Phum Baitang offers an infinity pool overlooking rice paddies and a saltwater swimming pool with loungers. The pool bar serves light meals and juices. There are two dining options: Bay Phsar, which focuses on Cambodian flavors, and Hang Bay, offering a mix of international dishes.
A central feature of the property is a restored 100-year-old farmhouse, now a cocktail and cigar bar with a cozy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy cocktails and fine wines while watching the sunset.
For relaxation, the Temple Spa offers various treatments, including traditional Khmer therapies and massages, in a peaceful setting. Facilities include treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, relaxation area, and a yoga pavilion.
Managed by Zannier Hotels, Phum Baitang emphasizes authenticity and simplicity, providing warm hospitality and luxurious accommodations. The resort is an ideal place for guests looking to unwind after exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, a stunning temple complex built in the 12th century that showcases intricate carvings and the rich history of Cambodia.