Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

Exploring Phu Ruea's Heights & Delights

Today was a day of exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of Phu Ruea. From the serene mountaintops to the vibrant local eateries, Loei continues to surprise and enchant Lena and me with its unique charm. It's a journey of discovery, one that reminds me of the simple joys in life and the beauty of shared experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Eat me. The quirky name caught our attention yesterday, and we decided to give it a try. It was a delightful start to the morning, with a selection of classic breakfast options that fueled us up for our adventures in Phu Ruea National Park.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Phu Ruea National Park in Loei, Thailand, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

I opted for a classic American breakfast, while Lena enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt.

After breakfast, we set off for Phu Ruea National Park, eager to explore its famed landscapes. The drive itself was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the lush countryside. As we ascended, the air grew noticeably cooler. November in Phu Ruea brings pleasant temperatures, with daily highs around 79°F and lows dipping to a refreshing 59°F. It's a welcome change from the Berlin chill we left behind. The park is known for its mountain, which resembles a junk boat, and offers spectacular views.

The journey, not the destination, is the reward.

We spent several hours hiking through the park, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna. The panoramic views from the summit were breathtaking, stretching across the rolling hills and valleys of Loei. It was easy to see why Phu Ruea is known as one of the coldest spots in Thailand. The crisp air and stunning vistas offered a sense of tranquility that's hard to find elsewhere. We took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape, but as always, the pictures just couldn't do it justice. You really have to be there to experience it.

After our hike, we decided to visit Wat Somdet Phu Ruea, a temple located near the entrance of the national park.


Explore the tranquil beauty and spiritual significance of Wat Somdet Phu Ruea, a hidden gem in Loei, Thailand, perfect for peace and reflection.

This temple is known for its exquisite wooden architecture and intricate carvings. Built on the site of an older shrine, it holds significant spiritual meaning for the locals. We explored the ordination hall, admiring the detailed artwork and the serene Buddha image. Lena was particularly impressed by the wall paintings depicting King Rama 9. The temple provided a peaceful contrast to the rugged beauty of the national park.

For lunch, we stopped at Route69 @Loei, a restaurant that promised a mix of Thai and Western cuisine.


Discover authentic Thai flavors at Route69 in Loei - where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

We were both quite hungry after our morning of hiking and temple exploration. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and the menu offered a variety of options. I went for a classic burger, while Lena tried a local Thai dish. Both were delicious and satisfying. I remember thinking that the burger was surprisingly good, a testament to the global culinary influences finding their way even to this quiet corner of Thailand.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of local wine at Chateau De Loei.


Explore local crafts and flavors at Chateau De Loei, a charming store in Phu Ruea District, Thailand, showcasing the region's rich heritage.

Having read about it, I was eager to sample some of Thailand's own wine production. The winery is set amidst picturesque vineyards, and the tasting room offered a selection of their wines. We opted for a tasting of their red and rosé wines. While not quite up to the standards of European wines, they were interesting and unique, with a distinct local flavor. I learned that Chateau de Loei was founded by Dr. Chaiyuth Karnasuta and was the first to legally produce wine in Thailand. They even produce a sparkling wine made in the style of French Champagne. We bought a bottle of their Syrah to enjoy later.

Before dinner, we took some time to shop at Chateau De Loei, browsing through their selection of local products and souvenirs. I picked up a bottle of their signature red wine and some locally made snacks. Lena found a beautiful silk scarf that she couldn't resist. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit.

As evening approached, we headed to Phu Loei Restaurant for dinner.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Phu Loei Restaurant - a culinary haven featuring steakhouse specialties and delightful desserts in the heart of Loei.

This restaurant came highly recommended for its diverse menu and inviting ambiance. Phu Loei Restaurant offers a wide range of Thai, Japanese, and Western dishes. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, a testament to its popularity. We decided to try some of their signature dishes, including the *สองพี่น้องภูเลย* and *ตำแตงกวา ไข่ต้ม น้ำกะปิ*. The flavors were bold and authentic, and the service was friendly and efficient. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much we had packed into it. From the natural beauty of Phu Ruea National Park to the cultural richness of Wat Somdet Phu Ruea and the culinary delights of the local restaurants, we experienced so much of what Loei has to offer. It's days like these that make traveling so rewarding, reminding me of the diversity and beauty of our world.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Hin Pha Ngam Park and the Huai Krathing reservoir. I hear Hin Pha Ngam Park is also called the “Kunming of Loei” due to its unique rock formations. Lena is particularly excited about the reservoir, as she loves being near the water. We might even check out the Bling bar in the evening for a nightcap.

As I write this, Lena is already asleep, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. I'm sipping on a glass of Chateau De Loei Syrah, savoring the memories of the day. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the journey we're on and the bond we share. Goodnight from Loei!