Where to stay in Siem Reap, the gateway to Cambodia's Angkor Wat

Siem Reap is often associated with Angkor Wat — a 12th-century stone city of spires, figures and bas-reliefs that’s being slowly reclaimed by the Cambodian forest. Taking a cue from this larger-than-life neighbour, hotels in the country's second city pay tribute to their surroundings, with nods to Cambodian nature, art and culture around every corner. Reaching the region is now easier, too, thanks to the new Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, Cambodia's biggest, which replaces the former local airport and offers an upgraded gateway to the country's northwest.

1. Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas

Siem Reap’s hotel scene has moved on from the backpacker hostels of decades past, with plenty of oasis-like options to retreat to after a day’s exploring in the Cambodian heat. Chief among them is the local outpost of the Shinta Mani collection. Set in the leafy French Quarter, it’s ideally located: close enough to the city centre to be walking distance, far enough to be serenaded by chirping cicadas. 

Though the location is tranquil, this boutique property is an exciting one. Architect and designer Bill Bensley has created a space that’s sophisticated yet whimsical: the black-and-white palette is punctuated by splashes of vivid colour, and there’s quirky, Cambodian-inspired art around every corner. The Shinta Mani’s suites are spread across three sister properties, all with the Bensley touch, which share facilities — including a gym and spa — and flank a quiet road. On the north side is the Shinta Mani Angkor; on the south sit the Bayon rooms, which overlook a courtyard pool; and there are 10 private Bensley Collection Pool Villas. 

There’s variety, too, when it comes to culinary options, with three bars and two restaurants. Kroya by Chef Chanrith — the hotel’s signature dining experience — serves an elevated take on Khmer food, from butter-catfish soup to sautéed scallops with minced pork. Enjoy your dinner on a cushioned ‘swing table’ over a koi fish pool — and, if you’re left suitably inspired, learn the secrets of Cambodian cuisine at the restaurant’s Khmer cooking classes. From US$152 (£125).

2. Treeline Urban Resort

Celebrating Siem Reap’s tree-shaded temples, Cambodian architect Hok Kang incorporated local flora into Treeline Urban Resort’s design. There are more nods to the setting: Cambodian art adorns the walls around the property, while locally handmade soft furnishings make its 48 rooms feel homely. From US$180 (£148).

3. Jaya House River Park

The Jaya House’s super-sleek style — from the minimalist bedrooms to a chic pool area — was inspired by 1960s Cambodian modernism. Design features have been crafted from local wood and stone, and a piece by Dorset artist Sasha Constable — who lived in Cambodia for 17 years — sits in the lobby. All paintings have been commissioned from the Small Art School, a local NGO. From US$270 (£221). 

4. Viroth’s Hotel

Walking distance from the Old Market, this 1950s-inspired hotel could not be better located for those who like to be right among it. Vertical gardens cascade down every floor, making you feel like you’re in the depths of the jungle. Meanwhile, the rooms combine contemporary detailing with traditional Cambodian artefacts. From US$206 (£168).