From the dramatic limestone cliffs of Phang-Nga Bay, to underwater wonderlands and Thailand’s only surf spots, Southern Thailand plays host to not only the country’s biggest tourism drawcards, but a trove of hidden gems. For intrepid travellers seeking to wander a little further from the beaten track, Avani Hotels (www.avanihotels.com) is connecting holidaymakers with back-to-nature adventures, an island-hopping mecca and Thailand’s most photogenic beaches. Stay and play in lesser known parts of Southern Thailand with four new Avani hotels.
Avani+ Khao Lak Resort
The expansive tropical playground of Avani+ Khao Lak Resort (www.avanihotels.com/khao-lak-phang-nga) is brimming with blissful pools, family-friendly amenities, AvaniSpa and five chic dining venues boasting stunning Andaman Sea views. Gym buffs are at home in the extensive AvaniFit, a dynamic, 24-hour facility whilst Yogis and outdoorsy types, will find joy in activities ranging from hanging yoga, tennis and climbing to beach assault courses, pool workouts, kayaking and on-property surf lessons.
At AvaniKids, the area’s largest kids’ club, play zones are age-specific and outdoor activities are prioritised. The splash park is a natural draw for the younger guests, while teens get the run of the on-site skatepark complete with ramps and fun boxes as well as the climbing wall. Activities in and around Khao Lak will appeal to both solo travellers and families. Whether it’s hiking through the prehistoric rainforest in Khao Sok National Park, day trips to the Takuapa Old Town or rafting through the bamboo forest, the scenery is breath-taking.
Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas
While Phuket requires no introduction, Mai Khao on the north-western coast of the island home to the Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites & Villas (www.avanihotels.com/en/mai-khao-phuket) is blessedly undeveloped. Only 15 minutes from Phuket International Airport lies a collection of chic, family-friendly suites and villas offering easy access to the coolest cafes in Phuket’s Old Town and classic Sino-Thai restaurants buzzing with locals.
Breezy one to three-bedroom suites keep guests close to the buzz of the resort’s main amenities including the large lagoon swimming pool, fitness centre and kids’ area where activities range from making pizza and planting trees to visiting rescue turtles and learning Muay Thai. Oceanside dining comes courtesy of Claws & Co, a casual-yet-chic seafood shack with a contemporary nautical theme, while Talad restaurant, open for buffet breakfast and dinner, covers the full spectrum of iconic regional street foods. The outdoor Chop Chop is the first Asian-style beer garden in the Mai Khao area.
Avani+ Koh Lanta Resort
Off the west coast of Thailand, between the Phi Phi Islands and the mainland Krabi province, lies the beautiful island of Ko Lanta Yai—home to the renovated Avani+ Koh Lanta Resort (www.avanihotels.com/koh-lanta-krabi). Making the most of the stellar beaches of Koh Lanta, the refurbished property offers stylish sea-view rooms and villas, as well as the Grand Ocean Residence. A world unto itself, the sprawling residence is perched atop a private peninsula and comes with a secluded garden and extensive dining and kitchen facilities. The resort’s Reggae Bar is unmissable as Koh Lanta’s top sundowners and late-night spot.
Holidaymakers can spend their days island-hopping, marvelling at the incredible biodiversity of the Tung Yee Peng Mangrove forest, diving or toasting the setting sun aboard a private yacht. The resort’s new design draws inspiration from traditional architecture seen in Lanta Old Town, blending heritage Thai elements and the history of Moken sea tribes, Muslim and Chinese settlers to showcase Krabi’s historic ties to Penang and Singapore.
Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort
The coast of Krabi province, including the beaches of Ao Nang and Railay, boasts some of Thailand’s most spectacular scenery. The newly opened Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort (www.avanihotels.com/ao-nang-krabi) offers stunning views of the famous limestone formations rising up from the Andaman Sea and is located steps away from local cafes and bars. Experiences include stylised long tail boat trips to swim in the pristine waters that have flourished in the absence of tourism.
Contemporary guest rooms are designed to deliver a peaceful sleep experience, while the private villas sitting further uphill boast stunning sunset views, with a pool and relaxation area creating a private sanctuary. The picturesque setting makes an idyllic backdrop for rejuvenation and pampering at the resort’s spa. An elevated swimming pool delivers spectacular sunsets, an indoor gym covers all fitness needs, while the youngest guests can have their own fun at AvaniKids. Dining options are diverse and cater to all tastes.