Sop Poeng to Chiang Dao

Saturday October 7, 2017, 32 miles (51 km) - Total so far: 635 miles

(1,022 km)

Hooray for an easier day - much needed. We rode straight to Mae Malai, and then up the 107 until Ban Sop Khab (school marked on google) where we turned right and heading parallel along a regional road (it did have a number, but it's not on any of my online map options). The 107 is fine but we didn't miss it, and this smaller road gives lovely views up the valley.

Chiang Dao enjoys a fabulous setting, and the 'tourist trap' cave is actually amazing. Well worth a visit for 40 baht! We're staying in town rather than by the caves, which is a lot more thai for those who like that sort of thing. Chiang Dao hostel is pretty nice - double room with fan for 500 baht (nowhere seems cheap here??) - good communal area with free drinks and snacks.

We finally tried a roadside coffee place for our iced lattes....am sure they were made with Nescafé, but equally delicious and much cheaper than a more involved cafe!
Lunch was at Chiang Dao bakery, right by the hostel. Really excellent thai food, with a very friendly and kind owner (who is extremely proud of his town and pleased to see visitors!)
For dinner, we're going to try Star Cafe as recommended by travelfish. There seem to be quite a few options.