Krong Kaeb (Kep)

Kep was formerly known as Kep Sur Mer when it was established in 1908 during the French colonization. The name "Kep" is derived from the French word le cap, which in English means "cape." The town of Kep has long been a favorite of Cambodians and is situated 167 kilometers (104 miles) south of Phnom Penh, the country's capital, and 100 kilometers (62 miles) east of Sihanoukville International Airport.

However, Kep used to be a private beach retreat for the affluent high ranking Khmer leaders who preferred to socialize with the colonialists as well as the colonial French bourgeois elite. The abandoned majestic homes that were constructed in Kep during the Golden Age of Cambodia in the 1950s and early 1960s have now unintentionally made the town famous. Don't forget to visit the Queen's Villa, one of the deserted structures on the seaside close to the Koh Tonsay boat dock. It was intended to be Queen Sisowath Kossamak's house when it was constructed in the 1930s. The unfinished palace of her son Norodom Sihanouk, Cambodia's erratic and creative Prince, King, Prime Minister, and "Protector of Cambodia," is located not far from here, close to the top of the hill. This so-called "Queen's Palace" was never finished, and Norodom never resided here.

Although the Kep National Park, around which the town is situated, does not have a lot of wildlife or unspoiled natural beauty, it does provide numerous hiking trails through the dense forest. A number of vantage points provide beautiful views of the town and the adjacent islands. Start your journey at the Led Zep Café, which is located above the Veranda Natural Resort and just past the southern park gate. A magnificent view of the town can be seen from the café. Keep reading to explore more most beautiful coastal towns in Cambodia.

Location: Kep, Southern Cambodia

Best time to visit: January, February, March and December