Siem Reap’s boutique hotel scene is part of Cambodia’s current cultural renaissance – one shaped by a dynamic contemporary art movement, a resurgence of traditional craftsmanship, and a wave of architecture that blends modernist clarity with Khmer heritage.
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While it’s impossible to rival the experience of the region’s famous temples, these small but sophisticated hotels offer a bold effort – and some of the best value for money in Southeast Asia.
Many also incorporate biophilic design, sustainably sourced local materials, saltwater pools, naturalist activities and low-impact systems, proving that style doesn’t have to come at the cost of ecological integrity.
Here’s where to check into when you’re in Siem Reap.
Photos: Le Chantou, The Nature, La Palmeraie
Treeline Urban Resort: A contemporary canvas along the river’s edge
Located in the relaxed, creative district of Wat Bo by the Siem Reap River, this hotel was designed by local architect Hok Kang and features thoughtful rooms made from sustainably sourced timber, stone and natural fibres. The property also functions like a private museum – guests are greeted by a Bayon face sculpture entwined in a tree and a gallery of rotating exhibitions, while stunning installations by Sopheap Pich, Thang Sothea, and other celebrated Cambodian artists are dramatically placed throughout.
$ | Book here
Dontrei Villa Angkor: Living history among exquisite gardens
The standouts here are the private pool spaces, some constructed with preserved Khmer wooden homes from Kompong Thom Province. Showcasing traditional craftsmanship and a reverence for history, the suites are brightened by natural fibres and expansive windows that open to dense foliage heavy with fruit.
$ | Book here
Heritage Suites Hotel: Colonial façade, Khmer soul
In a quiet yet highly accessible corner of Wat Polanka – with the Angkor National Museum and Royal Residence in the immediate vicinity – this hotel finds an easy camaraderie between colonial and minimalist design. Palm fronds and frangipani trees frame its clean lines and classic façade, while the restaurant serves gently spiced fusion cuisine like crab and pomelo salad, sauteed sea bass in citrus sauce, and slow-cooked curries.
$ | Book here
Templation Hotel: Sanctuary in the shadow of Angkor
Minutes by tuk-tuk to the temples of Angkor, Templation’s rooms invite the outdoors in while maintaining a sense of seclusion. Modernist private pool villas are grounded by angular concrete planes and local stonework, while the Jungloo Suites are rounded, canvas-roofed sanctuaries that capture the spirit of the jungle with plunge pools and sun streaming through large windows.
$ | Book here
Hillocks Hotel & Spa: Geometric forms softened by nature
Set just beyond the city centre, Hillocks strikes a balance between brutalist concrete forms and tropical abundance. Lush greenery spills over walkways and makes its way to every view, softening the property’s ruthless geometry. The spa’s Khmer massage, based on the concept of energy meridians, uses thumb and palm pressure, stretching and bending, while incorporating elements of yoga to align chakras and restore blood circulation.
$ | Book here
Photos: Templation, Treeline, Heritage Suites
The Nature: Wholehearted embrace of the wilderness
A few kilometres from the bustling heart of Siem Reap, The Nature is a raw embrace of the wilderness. At this homespun hideaway of robustly organic architecture, towering palms and flowering vines, you can dive into ritualistic afternoon tea and happy hour by the saltwater pool, and plant seedling trees. If appetite for city life strikes, there are free tuk-tuk shuttles into town.
$ | Book here
Viroth’s Hotel: An homage to Cambodia’s own midcentury modernism
This Wat Bo icon pays tribute to New Khmer Architecture, the mid-century Cambodian movement that married international modernism with distinctly Khmer forms and materials. Designed in collaboration with ASMA Architects and Ben Bensley, Viroth’s crisp white twin wings, sleek spiralled staircases, classic photography, and complimentary vintage Rolls-Royce transfers are transportive to a dynamic period of nationalistic expression. For a more intimate stay, the adjacent 19-room Viroth’s Villa is in tune with the swinging but civilised vibe, with plush velvet accents and teak fittings.
$ | Book here
Rambutan Resort: Chic gay-friendly haven in the heart of Siem Reap
On the serene east side of the Siem Reap River and a leisurely stroll to Pub Street and Old Market, this property’s Khmer‐village architecture is set amidst fragrant gardens and two saltwater pools, while winding steel stairs, stone balcony soaking tubs and lichen-covered ceramic tiled roofs add a patina of haunted romance. For those who prefer a more contemporary experience, the property’s sprawling apartments offer a modern and finely curated interpretation of Khmer aesthetics.
$ | Book here
La Palmeraie D’angkor: French-Khmer rusticity in a palm grove
Set on a sprawling jungle expanse five minutes from the city centre and 10 from the temples, this intimate stay offers just four rooms, a family suite, and a vast private villa with its own pool. With shaded verandas, tiled floors, and woven textures, the property’s combination of Angkor period architecture and understated French colonial influences creates an air of rustic gentility.
$ | Book here
Le Chanthou: Village calm, boutique comfort
A five-minute tuk-tuk ride from Siem Reap’s lively heart, Le Chanthou is a modern take on a village retreat. Surrounded by rice terraces and manicured gardens, guests can enjoy on-site massages, complimentary afternoon tuk-tuk shuttles, and packed breakfasts for early temple outings to beat the thronging crowds.
$ | Book here
Photos: Viroth's, The Nature, Rambutan
All hotels featured are independently selected by our team. However, we may receive compensation from our booking partners for any purchases made through these links.
