Handsome Terres Rouge Lodge was formerly the quarters of the local governor. Now restored and improved upon, it is owned and managed by a French ex-paratrooper and his Cambodian wife, whose combined local knowledge is unsurpassed.

This combination of cultures has also impacted the feeling of the lodge. It is, at heart, a sumptuous wooden Cambodian dwelling with elegant hardwood furniture, but there is plenty of Gallic charm in the details, including a collection of antiques. Best of all is a a breezy deck overlooking a small crater lake.

Over and above the fan-cooled rooms in the main house, there are newer ‘Balinese-style’ bungalows set amid landscaped gardens full of flowers and wild orchids with Jarai totems. These bungalows have air-conditioning and all 28 are different – no two are alike. Great for the character of the property … challenging when it comes to writing a review!

They have recently added internet coverage, cable TV, a pool and spa facilities. Individually a novelty in Ratanakiri, collectively a miracle! The restaurant serves excellent Khmer and Western cuisine, while the well stocked bar has been voted by Time Asia the ‘best bar in the middle of nowhere’.

Terres Rouge is set away from the main road amongst lush tropical gardens overlooking the lake on the outskirts of Banlung town.