WANAKARN RESORT & POOL VILLAS by Suzanne Kauz Phuket, Thailand’s largest island is a strikingly filled with natural splendour and a seemingly endless list of cultural and historical attractions. Admittedly, parts of it have become victims of their own success, drawing endless streams of tourists. If the holiday traffic jams and crowded beaches have given you a yearning for some peace and quiet, you won’t be jostling with the crowds for or elbowing for sunset shots or cocktails? Then you will fall in love with Wanakarn Resort, a hidden gem where you can find your own piece of paradise, less than one-hour-drive from Phuket’s airport.

This gorgeous five-star boutique resort, member of Relais & Châteaux, captures the essence of Thailand’s culture and hospitality. Nestled amidst 15 acres of lush tropical gardens scented with exotic flowers at the edge of a picturesque river, facing the virgin white powder sands of Thai Muang and the pristine turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Luckily Thai Muang is still an insider tip. Perfectly removed from the world, you can spend quiet and luxurious days here, Wanakarn Resort that only accepts adults and teens over 12 years old.

It’s a magic place to relax at the private pool of your beautiful villa, or under palm trees at the infinity pool, unwind at the quiet beach, get pampered at the Splendora Spa with one-of-a-kind therapies incorporating best natural ingredients, or experience yoga, cooking classes, play tennis or play golf-a great golf course is just around the corner. The resort also organizes private discovery tours to the region’s striking temples. And when it comes to dining experiences, menus offer mouth-watering Thai, Western and fusion cuisine catered to all dietary preferences. Dinner is accompanied by a live saxophonist, setting the mood for a classy yet intimate atmosphere. The chef concocts romantic candlelit dinners served in the privacy our private of your villa or on the beach. Then there’s the truly unforgettable experience of the Twin Sunset. Just sink into the comfortable beach bed at the panoramic terrace with views of the ocean and the sandbank separating it from the running river Sipping a glass of your favourite cocktail, you will be awarded with a spectacular TWIN sunset, a magical effect produced by reflection of the red orange fireball in both the ocean and the river.

wanakarnresort.com