The Nai Harn Hotel

Phuket

Rarely does the thought of a 100-plus-room hotel engender intimacy, or bring the word ‘boutique’ to mind. But The Nai Harn manages to pull off this sleight of hand with ease. Set on the outstretched fingertip of the Phuket peninsula, it punctuates a jungle-clad hillside with cabanas and private spaces, overlooking arguably the island’s prettiest beach.

Not unreasonably, the gilded sand can get a little busy come weekends, when locals and visitors alike make the trek down the bluff to feel the warm embrace of the glistening Andaman Sea. Luckily, from The Nai Harn, you only have to stroll down the steps: complimentary beach towels are obligatory; surf board tucked under arm, optional. But to swerve the crowds, a ten-minute walk (or a quick-fast tuk-tuk ride) brings you to the secluded curve of Ao Sane Beach. Its bohemian vibe feels more like the Thailand of 30 years ago and the stretch is perfect for a spot of snorkelling or, if you’re feeling languid, a cold local beer under the shade of swaying palm trees.

The hotel’s minimalist, suite-style rooms are more than generous when it comes to size, with virtually all of them benefitting from a huge balcony and cabana-draped daybed from which to drink in sun-kissed views of the boat-dotted bay. There’s no shortage of lounging areas around the pool, either.

On the food front, breakfast is a splendid affair with multiple food stations, artisan cold-brew coffees and a chill room for charcuterie. For lunch, Rock Salt is an intimate beachside Italian that attracts a good number of non-residents with its menu of Phuket rock lobster linguini, risotto and calamari. Hansha sushi bar sits on the first floor, while Cosmo offers an international menu. Far better though is to opt for Chef Ann’s authentic Southern Thai, served in the same space. Dishes such as moo hong (stewed pork with cinnamon), neua toon(beef cheek with chilli sauce) and pla neung manao (seabass with lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime) are as well executed as they are well priced. Doubles from £184.