Anantara Layan

On our trip to Thailand in September we decided to base ourselves in Phuket as we were limited on time and still wanted an island adventure. We stayed at The Surin for a few nights, which was absolutely stunning and we wanted to continue experiencing complete luxury away from the crowds so chose to try out The Anantara Layan and fell in love with this resort the moment we set foot in it!

The Anantara Layan is a five-star property tucked away in the north-west of Phuket in a national park, which is completely unspoilt compared to other parts of the island. The resort also benefits from its own private beach and residences. Read on to discover more about this truly spectacular property and why it is listed as one of the best luxury hotels in Phuket.

Background and Concept

If you read other articles about my recent stay in Thailand, you will know that I researched virtually every luxury resort in Phuket and the Anantara Layan really stood out to me. The brand is synonymous for quality and service and this property by Anantara is certainly one of the most breathtaking resorts in the whole of the island.

The main central hotel complex is open plan with the reception and bar adjoining an infinity pool which then connects onto the hotel’s private beach. The resort has a fresh but classic Thai feel to, which includes wooden salas, traditional furniture and soft furnishings in the communal areas. There are 4 dining options, bar and the hotel can also organise private dining on the beach. If you want to really get away from things then one of the resorts residences is where to stay.

Location

Serenity comes at a premium in Thailand due to its booming tourist trade, so a stay at the Anantara Layan really is like hitting the jackpot. Positioned in a national park with lush jungle to one side and fronted by a crescent of sheltered golden sands that cocoon the beach to the other it really is a tranquil location for a relaxing break.

The water is also very sheltered so good for families with small children as well as providing the ideal place for a range of water sports. The nearest large town is at the Lagoon which is a 20 minute taxi ride away so you really are away from it all. So sit back, relax and grab a cocktail!

The Rooms

30 rooms and suites perched on the hillside however if you stay I recommend one of their 47 pool villas, which are private and spread out across the resort. Pool villas come in a range of sizes and classes, you can get full details on the website.

Sala Pool Villa

We stayed in a Sala Pool Villa, which is 220 sqm of complete luxury. Enter through villa entrance into your own private garden.

Sala Pool Villas include their own 7×3 meter tool pool to cool off in (and a great places to wind down after dinner by), an outside patio and sunlounger area.

The bedroom

Inside the villa has a very generous sized bedroom, our villa was glass on two sides and let plenty of light in during the day.

Behind the bed is a large writing desk and in front of the bed there is a sofa and table, the table included a selection of Thai fruits as a welcome gift.

There is a very well stocked mini bar in addition to plenty of complimentary drinking water.

And phew a Nespresso! I don’t think I can live without mine.

The Bathroom

The bathroom has the wow factor it is practically the same size as the bedroom, with a recessed bath in the middle, to the left the shower, to the right the toilet and then on the left and right his and her sinks.

If you like to shower outdoors the villa also has its own outdoor shower. Coming from Scotland where it is cold most of the year, you need to take advantage of these unique moments!

I am always pleased to see hotels having their bath amenities in refillable dispensers now – lets cut down on waste! The Anantara bathroom amenities were divine!

There is wardrobe space to the left and right – so each person can have their own space to mess up!

The Residences

If a big group of you are looking for a place to vacation then Anatara Layan also offers privately owned residences, which are set on the hillside and look down onto the resort. I had the opportunity to look around some of the them and they are truly incredible as you will see from the pictures. Be whisked from the airport to your private haven with sprawling views from every vantage point. Choose from fifteen uniquely designed pool residences, each with its own charms, where traditional Asian design meets contemporary exuberance.

Food and Drink

So we were told breakfast is one of the best breakfasts you will ever eat and we definitely have to agree with this statement, it is incredible. There is literally everything you can ever imagine including a cheese room!!!

The two restaurants, the Thai Dee Plee and the Med-leaning Sala Layan are both excellent and popular. Romantic dinners can also be arranged on the beach under a moonlit sky as the Andaman Sea lap-lap-laps upon the shore.

Public Areas

Well you really come to the Anatara Layan for the beach, which is quite large so there is plenty of space for everyone to spread out and sunbathe. The infinity pool by the main resort complex is also very nice and I recommend at sunset sitting by the pool with a cocktail, it is just perfect for a romantic moment.

Final Thoughts

If you want 5-star plus luxury Anantara Layan is the place, they have thought of everything, it has the wow factor and the staff will cater for your every whim. I will definitely go back!