Where to stay in Phuket, Khao Lak & Islands

Inspired by the African safari camps Elephant Hills is the first luxury camp of its kind in Thailand. Set in two locations – the original camp has 30 tents in a stunning position with expansive views of the jungle and river below, while the Rainforest Camp offers 10 tents set on a floating platform on Cheow Larn Lake – for the ultimate experience we recommend a night in each.

There is a distinct feel of the ‘Jungle Book’ meets ‘Castaway’ about Six Senses Yao Noi and if Mowgli was all grown-up, and looking for a luxurious, sensuous retreat, this is most definitely where he would come! Resting in the ocean halfway between Phuket and Krabi, amongst the iconic limestone shards of Phang Nga Bay, getting there is all part of the experience. It’s just a 45 minute boat transfer from Phuket or 20 minutes by speedboat from Krabi. The views are quite simply ‘larger than life’ and it is one of the most idyllic retreats we have ever found.

This truly elegant, Thai-style resort is a secluded tropical retreat, offering undisturbed privacy and a very warm welcome on a pristine swathe of beach. Managing to offer the best of both worlds, this secluded resort is perfect for a relaxing, tropical beach escape but also incredibly well located for exploration if you prefer to be just a little more active.

Overlooking one of the best beaches in Thailand, with a backdrop of rolling jungle-clad hills, this charming resort is as distinctive in its setting as it is in its design. The tranquil and secluded white sand of Pansea Bay, washed by the clear warm turquoise water of the Andaman Sea, is the stuff of dreams… whilst the architecturally designed cottages and suites of The Surin are some of the most sought after on Phuket!

With a secluded location in the north of the island we love the very tranquil and utterly romantic aura that pervades the Anantara Phuket Villas – if you are looking to avoid Phuket’s sometimes loud, brash, busy persona then this may just be the place for you.

Tucked away in a secluded cove at the northern end of Bang Tao, one of Phuket’s most picturesque Bays, Anantara Layan is a gorgeous resort with a collection of rooms, villas and residences spread over a jungle clad hillside.

The Racha offers exclusive luxury on its tiny island paradise. Nestled in a picture perfect bay with a beautiful white sand beach and clear turquoise water – its location really is quite exquisite. The island of Koh Racha is just 40 minutes by speedboat from the marina on Phuket. The resort is very contemporary in design and the manicured grounds are filled with frangipani trees and the simple elegance of this white flower reflects the hotel’s own refined chic. Rooms are white, airy and spacious, so very modern yet, with an Asian feel.

Tucked away on a beautiful beach in Emerald Bay, on the south-west coast of Phuket, Rosewood Phuket is a secluded hideaway and yet is only ten minutes from the busy bars and restaurants of Patong Bay. Ideal for those who like to get out and explore and want to retreat to the privacy of their luxury resort at the end of the night. The freeform pool is the heart and soul of the resort, located right behind the beach, beneath the swaying palms - choose from lap, activity and children’s pool sections. Kids will love it here. With spacious and interconnecting rooms, plus two-bedroom options there is space for everyone.

Located on the island of Phuket, just ten minutes from the airport, the award-winning The Slate is just minutes from the white sands of Nai Yang Beach. Designed by Bensley Design Studios and inspired by Phuket’s tin mining past, The Slate's architecture and décor combines mining themes with Thai chic giving the resort a truly unique, quirky and fun feel.

Nestled in a tranquil setting north of Khao Lak, this hidden gem, located approximately 2 hours' drive from Phuket airport, boasts a long, uncrowded stretch of white-sand beach. Bangsak Village is an intimate and characterful hotel with just 50 simple rooms, catering to couples and older families with an age restriction of 12 years and older, ensuring a peaceful holiday experience.