Bangkok dwellers can enter a magical realm in just a few hours at an unusual resort in Khao Yai designed to look like the hobbit-inhabited world of Lord of the Rings.
Jump in the car and, three hours later, hunker down in a round-doored cozy hobbit hole, designed to match the sets described in the books and movies by J.R.R. Tolkien. Guests at the resort can also dress the part by borrowing free robes and other costuming attire to pose for the most authentic photos possible.
Still not had enough hobbit? You can take part in activities like you’ve read about in the book series by shooting a bow and arrow, slingshot, or fooling around with an (unsharpened) sword.
After you wear yourself out, relax with mince pies with a cup of mead at one of the picnic tables. In the morning, start your day in character with some porridge, which guests report as being the most delicious thing on the breakfast menu.
As one visitor said, “It’s a cheaper option for those who can’t afford a getaway to New Zealand,” which is where they filmed the epic movies.
The resort rooms have on-theme names such as Bag End House and Bagshot House, too.
Reported to be a very clean and well-kept fairytale land, the hobbit holes all have en suite bathrooms, and it’s been particularly popular among families as well as young-at-heart couples who are fans of the series.
They’ve even made a bit of a side business out of letting the place be used for Hobbit-loving couples’ engagement photos, too.
FIND IT:
Hobbit Resort (called Baan Suan Noi in Thai)
292 Lat Bua Khao
Nakhon Ratchasima
Rooms start at THB800 (US$25)
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