Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta Island

Pimalai Resort & Spa was one of the first luxury hotels on the lovely island of Koh Lanta and can still claim to be at the top of its game.

Perched in a prime position, up high on a verdant hillside, the panoramic views over the monkey-riddled forest down to the beautiful beach below (Kantiang Bay) are among the best on the island.

Pimalai lies in the unspoiled south of Koh Lanta and borders a protected national park, ensuring beauty and tranquillity. In season (November through to April), you'll arrive in style by speedboat, (the hotel has its own floating jetty and a private pier on the mainland, so you can swiftly transfer from Krabi airport in around 1.5 hours).

Choose from a variety of rooms and suites scattered throughout its gorgeous grounds. All are designed in a contemporary, luxurious Thai style with colourful fabrics and rattan curtains, and come with private sundecks and dreamy bathtubs overlooking the bay.

The Villas are our top choice (especially the Pool Villas). They're all spectacularly located, either by the beach (with a private walkway down to the shore) or up high on the hillside, hidden amid coconut palms, with wide-open ocean views. Honeymooners may feel that there is no need to leave their room (as this travel writer's account proves right!). These villas are also available in one, two and three-bedroom styles.

Pimalai has four speciality restaurants whipping up Thai, seafood, fusion and international cuisines. You can benefit from the award-winning wine-cellar at all of them (with wines starting at about £25 a bottle). There are two large swimming pools, one perched high on the mountain with startlingly beautiful views. The Spa is exceptional and offers the treatments and therapies expected from a five-star resort. There is a gym where you can learn Muay Thai or enjoy gentle yoga, a PADI dive centre (open between November to April) with speedboats to take you to the excellent sites around the island. Boats can be rented for day trips to other islands, too (which we highly recommend). You can also use the hotel's bicycles, canoes, tennis courts and sailing whenever you wish. Golfing in Krabi and Thai cookery courses can also be easily arranged. Just say the word.

The excellent, highly attentive staff and management make staying at this resort a dream. While the resort caters to every need, there are some fun beach bars and restaurants within strolling distance to give you a broader flavour and feel for the island and its laid-back vibe.

Pimalai is a truly exceptional beach resort. All the bells and whistles, and an excellent location overlooking a quiet cove, make it the perfect place to stay for discerning travellers to Koh Lanta.