Located on a scenic stretch of the Kwai Noi River in Kanchanaburi province, the X2 River Kwai resort opened for business in July 2014. With just 8 rooms, this is a boutique hotel with a difference. The concept of the resort is ‘industrial chic’ and that is immediately evident upon arrival with the modern structure of the hotel providing an imposing, but elegant sight. The designers say they have used Kanchanaburi province as their inspiration in using ‘light structure’ drawing upon design features from rafts, bridges and houses found in the province.
At the time of writing there are just 8 rooms at X2 River Kwai, but there are plans to add 18 more in 2015. All cabins look out onto the river and the lush Kanchanaburi countryside. On my recent visit, I checked into the lower level PoolXide Cabin. On a stormy rainy season day, the views were spectacular and it was a joy to be able to open the sliding doors to a wooden deck which led directly to the stunning infinity pool. The upper deck Luxe Cabins are priced higher and make the most of the gorgeous views, but you’ll have to walk down the stairs for a dip in the infinity pool!
All rooms include:
The Bridge Bar & Bistro is the river-view restaurant where guests can enjoy their food and drinks inside or on the outdoor deck. I didn’t have breakfast at X2 River Kwai, but I did have dinner here and the food and service was excellent. At some hotels in Thailand, food can be toned down to cater for the Western palate, but I certainly didn’t find that to be the case at this resort. Speaking to the hotel staff, it’s clear that many of their guests, especially at weekends, are Thai. With a discerning Thai clientele, the food had better be good and at X2 River Kwai it was superb with classic Thai cooking served in comfortable surroundings.
With a theme of ‘unpretentious luxury’, the resort encourages guests to unwind at any time of the day in the bistro with a cup of coffee or a glass of something stronger.
The X2 River Kwai is a great destination for those who just want to get away from everything and relax. But if you can’t live without your internet connection, you’ll be relieved to know that high speed broadband wireless internet is available in all areas of the hotel. I-pads are also available on loan as are bicycles if you want to explore the surrounding area.
X2 River Kwai Resort is approximately a 15-minute drive from Kanchanaburi town centre or a 1.5 to 2 hour drive from Bangkok. From Bangkok, taxi prices will vary depending on your starting point and not all meter-taxis will want to take the fare or you may have to agree on a set price. Expect to pay a minimum of 2,000 Baht. Other options from Bangkok include taking the bus or one of the regular mini-vans which depart from Victory Monument in Bangkok, but the mini-vans aren’t very practical if you are carrying a large amount of luggage. A slower, but nevertheless enjoyable way of getting to Kanchanaburi is by train with departures from Bangkok Thonburi station at 07.45 and 13.55 with the journey taking 2.5 to 3 hours. On arrival in Kanchanaburi town centre, a taxi/songthaew to X2 River Kwai hotel will cost approximately 300-500 Baht.
For more information:
X2 Resorts
Read more reviews and check online prices for X2 River Kwai »
Shopping in Thailand: How to Claim Back VAT Tax Refund
Packing Strategies for the Coup Near You – Chiang Mai, Thailand
Valentine's Day Elephants
The Shan State of Burma and North Thailand – November 1999
Open Wide – Travels in India and Pakistan (and Thailand & Cambodia) #15: Accidental Pilgrimage – Thailand
Green Fried Grasshoppers – Nepal and Thailand
