Pimalai Resort and Spa

Secluded luxury resort set in lush tropical surroundings with stunning swimming pools, jungle spa, dive centre and a vast unspoilt beach

Ideally situated in Thailand's southwestern province of Krabi, Koh Lanta has long been a hotspot for backpackers. But unlike nearby Phuket and Phi Phi, the island has managed to go upmarket while retaining its slow, blissful vibe. Pimalai was the first of a clutch of luxury hotels to open on Koh Lanta in recent years and is arguably still the best.

Set in 100 acres of lush tropical gardens on the quiet southern tip of the island, it has direct access to a half-mile stretch of pristine white sand. Arriving by speedboat, you would never guess there's a largish resort hiding in the hillside's protected woodlands. 121 contemporary Thai-style rooms and new pool villas are virtually hidden amid the cashew trees; the spa is designed to blend into the jungle, with pretty thatched pavilions made of teak, bamboo and river stones. Guests, mainly 30-something couples, spend their days being pampered, chilling out by the fabulous infinity pools, windsurfing, kayaking. Beyond the resort, Pimalai offers hiking, elephant rides and trips to some of Thailand’s finest dive sites.

Highs

• Beautiful tranquil setting with acres of well-maintained lush grounds - perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature
• Huge stretch of unspoilt sandy beach
• Top-notch facilities including two spectacular infinity pools
• Gorgeous jungle spa - imaginatively designed and the best Thai massage we've experienced
• Helpful, friendly and unfussy service
• Good selection of dining options - the hotel has 5 restaurants (though quite expensive by Thai standards)
• If you tire of all the luxury, wander along the beach to some laid back inexpensive restaurants and bars
• Excellent diving and snorkelling off nearby islands (only from Nov-April)

Lows

• More resorty and less personal than most i-escape hotels: on arrival we winced at the buffets, Thai performers singing rock classics at dinner and golf carts transporting luggage, but by day 2 we didn't want to leave
• The rooms are very comfortable but the decor is rather generic Asian
• Some rooms such as the pool villas are a steep hike from the beach in the heat (you'll appreciate the golf buggies)
• Not for party seekers - most guests are in bed by eleven
• Off the beaten track location and somewhat isolated from regular Thai life - most guests stay put in the resort