Mueang Loei accommodation from AU$21

In Loei, the best activity is to get out and experience nature. Phu Kradueng National Park provides an awesome hike to the summit. Climbing 1,325 metres above sea level, you’ll have an unsurpassed view of the surrounding countryside from the summit. Explore the beautiful pine forest, blooming wildflowers and discover a perfect spot for a tranquil picnic lunch. If you still want adventure, head to Phu Reua National Park and climb a second summit. The peak is the coldest reported place in Thailand, and despite the chill you can't fault the spectacular views over the Huang and Khong Rivers. As you hike, grab a photo at Turtle Rock, which is impossible to miss because of its likeness to its namesake. Gold Cliff is another fantastic landmark, which is covered in a unique type of lichen that gives the face of the cliff a spectacular golden sheen.

Visit Phra That Si Song Rak, which is an ancient pagoda signifying the friendship between the Kings of Ayutthaya and Sri Sattana Khanahut (Vientiane). The pagoda is a monument to recognise the alliance formed to resist the Burmese invasion in 1560. If you're feeling romantic you can't miss this attraction, because it has become an icon and a famous religious site where couples visit to pray for eternal love. With a climate similar to that in the south of France, the wine from this part of Thailand is amazing. Stop in at Chateau de Loei to taste their award-winning dessert wine, and explore the lush greenery of the vineyards.

Tourists to Loei in July cannot miss the Phi Ta Khon Festival. It's one of the most intriguing events in Northeast Thailand, where young men dress as ghosts and act out the local legends. Traditionally the belief is that the ghost masks scare away evil spirits, and today it has transformed into a festival full of fun and excitement. If you're not in town for the event, you can still stop in at the Dan Sai Folk Museum, where they offer an interesting display of traditional costumes from the festival. You can see how they are made and watch some great videos of the highlights from the celebrations.

Visitors to Loei discover the best natural environments in Thailand, and weather unlike anywhere else in the country. To get a real feel for the culture and beliefs of the locals, come and visit on your next holiday. It's easy to get visit Loei, which is only 150 km west of Udon Thani. Find and book your flight to Thailand, and don't forget to book your Loei accommodation. A fantastic vacation is calling!