He has set up Vintage Rides and has now expanded its presence in thirteen countries. An explorer by heart, he's always looking to discover new adventures around the world.
Saddle up for a bike tour along the sublime roads of Northern Thailand on a Royal Enfield. Discover the ancient Thai kingdom of Lanna, on an exceptional road trip departing from Chiang Mai. At the heart of the real Thailand, you follow the Burmese border as far as the banks of the Mekong, thoroughly immersing yourself in the fabled Golden Triangle. Misty mountains, teak forests, and glittering Buddhist temples make for plenty of surprises and exciting stop-offs along the way. A motorcycle trip for those who dream of magnificent open roads and a complete change of scenery.
You arrive at the airport and are transferred to your hotel. Make the most of this first day discovering Chiang Mai, a large city in north Thailand. Visit Wat Chiang Man, stroll around the city's various markets, such as Talat Warorot or the famous night market, where you can taste your first Thai delicacies.
Our adventure begins as we head southwest of Chiang Mai before entering Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the country's highest peak (2,565 m). Then, we continue due west on a magnificent mountain road, peering over the edge at times. We arrive in Mae Hong Son, known as the “City of Three Mists”, nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains.
Today, we continue along the Mae Hong Son loop, famous for its 1,864 curves! We then sink closer to Burma along small picturesque tracks. En route, we stop off at Tham Lod for traditional bamboo rafting to caves filled with bats and catfish. Then, back on the famous loop road, we pass through superb landscapes. Once in Pai, we can make the most of this small town’s relaxed atmosphere.
This morning we leave Pai, meandering along small backroads, slowly skirting elephant camps so you can have a look. After passing 2 mountain ranges, we’ll see a sign showing 25 miles to Chiang Mai; but we will take the opposite direction and go North towards the Burmese border.
We continue north along the Burmese border. The route continues up a winding road to Doi Mae Salong, known for its Chinese mountain village, Santikhiri. We continue on small secondary roads along the Thai-Burmese border, until we reach Mae Sai. We carry on along the Mekong until Chiang Saen, and voila, we’re in the heart of the Golden Triangle!
This morning, we take time to enjoy this Golden Triangle area where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Burma meet. After lunch alongside the Mekong, we leave Chiang Saen, following the Mekong for a few miles before veering south. We cruise between rice paddies, pineapple and other fruit and vegetable plantations, and arrive in Chiang Rai.
Today, we make the most of being in Chiang Rai. On the agenda: White Temple, Blue Temple and Pong Phra Bat hot spring. In the evening, you can have some free time to stroll around the centre at your own pace. We will meet in the evening for dinner at the night market.
We head northeast this morning. After several small roads, we climb to Phu Chi Fa and its never-ending hairpin bends. We take a short 30-minute walk to see neighbouring Laos. We then descend Phu Chi Fa mountain to reach our hotel with a fascinating host.
We have a long day ahead, so we set out early. We push southeast for around 60 miles on exhilarating mountain roads full of twists and turns. We head east in Doi Phu Kha National Park, through a wild and wonderful place until we reach Nan district. Off limits to foreigners for many years, this region has a Laotian atmosphere and influences.
This morning, we head southwest on a beautiful mountain road. Then, we cruise through the plains of Doi Pha Klong National Park to Lampang. Here, we can visit its famous Burmese temple, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, known for its superb woodcarvings.
Today is your last day in the saddle, along the main road back to Chiang Mai. En route, we can stop off at the elephant conservation centre, 18 miles outside Lampang. We can still enjoy some winding roads in Doi Khun Tan national park on the way. You can spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure doing some shopping or simply enjoying one last Thai massage.
Depending on your flight time, you may have a few more hours to enjoy Chiang Mai's charms. You are transferred to the international airport.
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