The Slate, Phuket

The Slate (formerly Indigo Pearl) fuses historic detail with chic contemporary design to create what must be one of Phuket’s most unique large hotels. Built on a former tin mine, the resort imaginatively captures elements of the islands past with the style that has come to symbolise the present.

Located in an excellent spot on Nai Yang beach, 277 rooms and a range of facilities are interspersed through large landscaped gardens. The low rise constructions leave a footprint that belies the actual scale of the property.

Facilities are superb and rival any hotel in this class on the island. Three excellent swimming pools (one for families and two for adults only) provide a range of options for cooling off from the heat whilst the excellent beach is good for swimming. The hotel has a good spa as well as a fitness suite, yoga pavilion and tennis courts. There is also an on-site diving centre. The kids club offers a range of fun activities and a playground for children aged 4-11.

Food and dining options are broad and varied. The hotel has no fewer than 8 outlets offering a variety of cuisines in different styled settings. Breakfasts are worthy of special mention, as is the legendary Sunday Brunch (with free flowing cocktails and international fine-dining) which is well worth booking in advance. There is also a great in-house cooking school where you can learn some of the delicious dishes you will no doubt sample during your stay.

The Slate has an intimate and relaxed atmosphere that most hotels of this size can only dream of. The unique design will not be to everyone’s taste but those who like the look can be assured that there is plenty of substance beyond the style.