Anyone who wants to get away from the tourist buzz, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy quirky nuggets on this diverse but sleepy island.
Pimalai is on the tiny island of Koh Lanta – just over an hour away by boat or plane from Krabi mainland, Southern Thailand.
You’d hardly know the 121 units at Pimalai were there: tucked high up in the steep hillside, and accessed by meandering tropical paths. All are built in contemporary Thai style, with polished wood floors, dark, exotic furniture, and bamboo blinds that play with the golden light outside. Overall the feel is cool, shady and tranquil, with bursts of zesty colour. Pavillion Suites have private gardens and open-air showers, whilst the Beach Villas have up to 3 bedrooms and huge bi-fold doors that open up to the sounds of the sea. For dramatic views of the Kan Tiang Bay, stay in the Pool Villas, right up in the hillside.
There are 8 restaurants and bars at Pimalai, combining dramatic views of the Andaman sea, with the magical sounds and scents of the gardens. At The Cove restaurant you can enjoy a classical lantern-lit dinner overlooking the incredible infinity pool, 50 metres above sea level. For casual dining, the Rak Talay beach bar is right on the shore, serving delicious snacks by day, and an abundance of fresh seafood in the evenings. All of the produce at Pimalai tastes that bit better knowing that it comes from their own organic farm on the island.
Anyone who has fallen for Thailand’s natural beauty and gentle courtesy will never want to leave Pimalai. The spa is obviously the epitome of relaxation, lost amongst the tropical gardens, and with a full range of restorative treatments. As well as these, guests can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, tennis, cycling, and some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in the world. If you wish to venture from the beautiful hotel, pristine beach, and stunning infinity pools, you can wander around Koh Lanta’s Old Town. This place takes ‘sleepy way of life’ to wonderful new levels, with stilted houses perched above the sea, gypsy fishermen hauling in the day’s catch, and a subtle mix of cultures to be spotted all around.
One of the few shops you will find in Koh Lanta Old Town is the ‘Hammock House.’ As you duck you head and enter this quirky little place, you’ll find nothing but brightly coloured hammocks (including ones for cats!) Buy one to take home, string it up, and be transported back to this heavenly island.