Katiliya Khao Lak Resort and Pool Villas, South West Thailand

rooms

The rooms are contemporary and stylish with relaxing daybeds to enjoy the exquisite views. The ground floor Deluxe Rooms have garden views and one king or two twin beds. Or choose one of the Premium Deluxe Spa rooms with their private balconies and spa treatments. Or chose a spacious Suite with fully-stocked kitchenettes, separate living areas, en suite bathrooms and large baths to wallow in.

Alternatively chose one of the lovely villas. They offer lagoon views from their private glass-roofed patios along with en suite bathrooms, spacious living quarters topped off with a personal villa host service.

facilities & activities

There are 3 fresh water swimming pools and a designated kid’s pool, or, flop on the powder soft beach and enjoy the crystal clear waters. For a little more relaxation there is the award-winning sumptuous spa with no less than eight treatment villas complete with rain-shower rooms and heated treatment beds.

If that all sounds too relaxing, then there are two flood-lit tennis courts, mini-golf, boating, water-sports and Thai cooking demonstrations, or just hire bikes and have a leisurely bike-ride.

The hotel is perfectly located to explore the clear sea waters and its a diver and snorkellers' paradise with visibility reaching up to 30 metres. Explore the corals of the nearby Similan Islands or the three National Parks that nuzzle up to the coastline – explore the waterfalls, mangrove swamps and jungles before taking a refreshing dip in the warm seas.

dining

There are six restaurants from which to chose and all offer fresh, local ingredients (many hand picked from the private hotel garden) and stunning views. Start the evening off with a fresh cocktail at Latitude 8, overlooking the sea, and enjoy the live local band.

Start the day with breakfast at Michelin-starred Cafe Lilawadee with its unique combinations of fruit, vegetables, herbs and spices. Later on, if you are poolside, then the Plunge Bar keeps you topped up with a selection of pizzas, sandwiches, ice cream and freshly baked cakes. Or opt for the Terrace Bar, with the best views on Khao Lak - open all day. 

In the evening, maybe try Twin Lake Pavilion, overlooking the breathtaking lake, which offers traditional Japanese cuisine such as sushi, teriyaki and sashimi. Go beach-side under tropical palms in the Bamboo Bar and Grill with its huge platters of fresh fish and seafood or try Kuk Kuk - home to Indian delicacies and live music. For fragrant, authentic Thai dishes head to Baan Thai overlooking the lagoon. Feast on Italian at Mosaic where you can enjoy fine wines and a wood-fired pizza, all in a pleasant rustic setting.

Please do note that some of the restaurants are closed during the low season.

family

It's a great choice for a family wanting to experience the quieter side of a Thai beach resort (no full moon parties here!). All ages are welcome and there's plenty to keep them entertained - from the lovely pools, to the quiet beach, to ball and water sports. There is also a kid's club open daily with indoor and outdoor playgrounds and a huge range of activities plus playstation and DVD for quieter times. Baby-sitting is also available on request.

There is a children’s menu in every restaurant and additional cribs and cots can be organised for all room choices. The suites and villas are easily spacious enough for a family, with kitchenettes and separate living and sleeping accommodation. Accommodation and breakfast is free for children under 12.

location

The hotel is found on the pristine Pakweeb Beach, in Khao Lak. The area is quieter than many of the coastal destinations and more secluded, offering balmy, tranquil evenings and more family-orientated activities. However, it's only just over an hour to Phuket Airport and there are regular buses to and from the area. The hotel also has an airport shuttle that delivers you directly to the door.