Pimalai, Koh Lanta Island

Pimalai was one of the first luxury resorts on the sleepy island of Koh Lanta and can still claim to be at the top of its game. Occupying a prime location on a wide stretch of verdant hillside forest, the views and beach from Ba Kan Tiang bay are among the best on the island.

Pimalai is the most southern development and borders the expanse of a protected national park, ensuring beauty and tranquillity. In season (November through to April) transfers are by private speedboat, and the hotel has its own floating jetty and a private pier on the mainland ensuring swift transfers from Krabi airport at about 1.5hrs total.

The resort has 121 rooms; Pavilion Suites, Beach Villas and Pool Villas, all designed in a contemporary, luxurious, Thai style. Superior Rooms are located in clusters of two-storey buildings many with sea-views. Bay Front Deluxe Rooms are slightly larger and have bathtubs overlooking the bay. Pavilion Suites are bigger still and are available with one or two bedrooms. These suites have separate lounges with outdoor sundecks. The Beach Villas are spectacularly located, hidden amidst coconut palms and have direct access to the stunning white-sand beach. These villas are also available in one, two and three-bedroom styles and come with kitchens, private terraces and a smaller swimming pool shared with other occupants of the Beach Villas. The spectacular Pool Villas is the most recent addition. They are perched high on the hillside, and all have impeccable facilities and private, infinity swimming pools. They also have quite incredible views, and honeymooners may feel that there is no need to leave their room. Their location on the hill means that hotel buggies might be needed for the uphill walk from the beach, pool and main hotel facilities, though guests often prefer to walk.

Pimalai has five speciality restaurants serving Western, Thai, seafood, fusion and international cuisines. All have access to the award-winning wine-cellar with wines starting at about £25 a bottle. There are two large swimming pools, one perched high on the mountain with spectacular views. The Spa is exceptional and offers the treatments and therapies expected from a five-star resort. There is a gym, a PADI dive centre (November to April) with its dive boats to explore the excellent sites around the island. Boats can be rented for day trips to other islands. Bicycles, canoes, tennis courts and sailing are provided free. Elephant trekking, golfing in Krabi and courses in Thai cookery can also be arranged. The excellent, highly attentive staff and management have worked tirelessly to ensure the continual improvement of the resort. While the resort caters for almost any need, there are fun beach bars and restaurants within strolling distance to give you a broader flavour and feel for the island and its laid-back hospitality.

Pimalai is an exceptional beach resort. First-rate facilities and an excellent location on a quiet beach make it a destination of choice for discerning travellers to Koh Lanta.