Anantara Layan Hotel

168 Moo 6, Layan Beach Soi 4, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, Thailand

Set on the less-visited north-west coast of Phuket island, this idyllic resort is nestled on the edge of a national park only about a 30-minute drive from the bustle of the capital. The powdery white sands and turquoise waters of Layan Beach are part of a secluded section of Bangtao Bay, where a warm breeze blows in from the Andaman Sea. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be ready for some serious relaxation. There are 30 rooms and suites, as well as 47 pool villas, meaning plenty of choice. Decor is contemporary and sophisticated, with heavy oriental furniture and local art complemented by a clean colour palette with Southeast Asian accents. Private balconies and terraces draw the outside in, and views can be over the gardens, pool or sea. Sun worshippers are in the perfect spot to while away their afternoons, stretched out on the beach or by the sprawling pool, which comes with Sunshine Butlers to furnish you with fresh fruit skewers and cooling face towels. The spa offers
a full menu of Elemis and eastern treatments for exploring the various healing traditions. If you fancy getting more active, there’s plenty to get your pulse racing: kayaking, windsurfing and sailing are all on the cards, tide permitting. You can finish up with a fine wine in one of the hosted tasting sessions too. Restaurant Dee Plee specialises in northern cooking and its authentic dishes are a shining example of the nation’s fresh, zingy flavours. Chef Pitak Srichan also runs cookery classes on-site, guiding guests around the local market before letting them loose in the kitchen. His knowledge of ingredients inspires guests of all ages, as they create dishes like massaman curry and tom kha gai (spicy, creamy chicken soup). Infinity Bar is perfect for sipping on a cocktail and watching the sun set over the beach. GR. Doubles from £140, phuket-layan.anantara.com