Layana Resort & Spa
Krabi

Located on the large island of Koh Lanta in Krabi, Layana Resort & Spa is a boutique resort offering stylish and characterful accommodation set in beautifully manicured gardens and with two salt-water swimming pools, leading to the white-sand Long Beach. Having an adults-only policy ensures that the environment remains tranquil and particularly suited to couples or singles. The resort’s 57 rooms are divided into several room categories. The main buildings centred around a lush green lawn dotted with tropical palms, house the Garden Pavilion and Grand Garden Pavilion rooms. The Terrace Suite and Ocean Deluxe Villa offer spacious duel-level accommodation. We highly recommend the Beach Villa, which has direct access to the sweeping beach. Being west facing, the picturesque beach looks out to the Phi Phi Islands and the giant limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay, and the most spectacular sunsets.

Aside from pure relaxation, there are many activities on offer at Layana. Swim in the resort’s half-Olympic sized salt-water wellness pool, or the beachfront salt-water infinity pool. Snorkel in the calm, warm waters of the Andaman Sea, with its abundant colourful marine life. Take exciting boat trips out to outer-lying islands. Trek in the interior of Lanta Island, with jungle covered hills, and lush waterfalls. Visit one of the many villages to be found throughout the island. The resort also has a well-equipped gym. For rejuvenation, Layana has an award-winning spa that offers a range of treatments, including a unique Salt Spa, a recreation of the therapeutic microclimate found in salt caves. The spa also offers many more traditional treatments, such as traditional Thai massage.

Layana’s restaurant Sea Sky serves mouthwatering Thai and Mediterranean food. Diners can choose to eat in the bright and airy restaurant pavilion or al fresco, right next to the beach. The resort’s bar is the perfect place to relax with a cool cocktail, especially whilst watching one of Thailand’s legendary sunsets. For something a little healthier, the poolside White Bar serves up freshly pressed fruit and vegetable juices. Due to the resort’s location on Long Beach, there are also many options within walking distance for dining in local rustic Thai restaurants.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson