Pimalai Resort & Spa

First off, my family and I just love this place. At least we used to. We have been there several times over the years and although this remains a wonderful property to visit, it is pulled down by a seriously infected achilles heel. It's chef. More below. To say that the hillside villas have million dollar views, does not do justice to this place. It's serenity and distance from Phuket are both a boon and a liability. The massages at the spa are truly world class and is the one thing that has drawn us back repeatedly. A truly memorable experience. They have one beachside restaurant and 3 other restaurants you can choose from, though one is shut for reservation. Apart from the beach cafe, one is a Thai place serving very good "royal Thai" cuisine and the other a "fine dining" place. The latter is the problem. The issue is with their chef who promptly walks out at 10.30 pm, irrespective of whether there are guests still eating or whether the food he cooked was even acceptable to them. Unfortunately it's happened with us before and it happened twice on this trip. We had chosen the 7 Seas "fine dining" place for a very special occasion. The food served was inedible. Then the chef left. His sidekick (presumably) attempted to make an aglio oil - noodles with olive oil - and failed miserably. It was served uncooked. To say that our very special evening had been nuked by the chef and ignored by the management, is an understatement. One we will not forget in a hurry. Oh by the way, there is NOTHING nearby so basically if he leaves, you are stuck with nothing to eat. I'm not so sure we want to go back there again. We go to holidays to destress and enjoy ourselves. Not to be held hostage by the temperament of an egoistic employee. I did ask to speak with the GM whom we have known for years, but he was mysteriously unavailable. Oh well.

“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it� – Roald Dahl We just returned from a 10 night stay in a beautiful pool villa for our honeymoon in June and wow, what an unforgettable time this has been, surely memories that will last a lifetime. I know that there has been plenty of in depth reviews, nevertheless, brace yourself for another.. However, I will try and keep it as short and interesting as possible with a few tips, insights and personal recommendations. Let’s start by covering the major checklist we all consider before clicking on the “Book Now� button.. Transportation to and from Pimalai: This has been extensively covered by other guests, and it is indeed as organised, comfortable and scenic as mentioned. This is offered as added value to Pimalai’s guests, yet another gesture distinguishing them from their competitors. Tip: Coordinate with Pimalai with regards to their speedboat transfer timetable and book your flights to Krabi airport accordingly – this will only add to an even smoother journey. Accommodation - Pool Villa: Immaculate, luxurious, well thought-out, spot on housekeeping, well stocked mini bar, picturesque views, amazing private pool, unbeatable privacy – again, so many detailed reviews from past guests describing the incredible value for money this accommodation type offers, however, you absolutely have to see it to believe it, I can guarantee that you will be swiping your MasterCard with a delighted smile at the end of your stay. Tip: These villas are built on the hillside, joined in matrimony with Mother Nature – and as most of you know a marriage consist of two forces promising to respect, love, appreciate, admire, compromise and protect one another – with these principles in mind as a villa guest (and newly married to Mother Nature), remember, whether it’s the sound of flamboyant female insects attracting their male lovers, frogs singing to the ripples of the water, crickets stridulating by chirping the days events or ever alerted geckos making their presence known as the sun touches the horizon – it’s our individual duty to honour our promises and treat Mother Nature and all of her creatures as we would treat our significant other. “A walk in Nature walks the soul back home� – Mary Davis Restaurants and Food: Sooo, this is where I’m quite the critic seeing that I consider myself an undiscovered Michel Roux Jr. (well, to be fair, my husband thinks he is the real Michel Roux Jr. and he can barely fry an egg, hahaha, so I guess my critics is based purely on my own taste buds…) That being said … The food was amazing! In the 11 days we were there we decide on having all our meals and drinks at Pimalai resort, we were not disappointed, not once. The Seven Seas restaurant is a must - MAN the executive chef attention to detail is exceptional, he is truly talented and prepares mouth-watering dishes. However, across all restaurants the food was always delicious, plated to perfection and amazingly fresh, the staff welcoming and extremely competent, they really go out of their way to accommodate the requests and preference of each and every guest – a huge thank you to ALL staff members for the level of professionalism and unparalleled service, you all give meaning to the phrase that an institutions success lies within its work force. Tip: Sure, the prices are in some opinions more pricy compared to the norm in Thailand, however, there is nothing ‘normal or standard’ about Pimalai and the quality of food and service they offer so I find this comparison highly unfair if not even slightly ill-informed. To begin with, this is a 5 star resort, one should be fully prepared to pay for what you get. As well, and perhaps the most notable is that although there is a 20% additional charge, bear in mind that 7% goes straight to the tax man’s pocket (which is not that much at all compared to other countries) and 10% of what is called a ‘service charge’ is returned to the employees that contribute towards providing a better life for them and their families and a chance to a better education for their kids - in my opinion, this fact alone should make one feel proud for being fortunate enough to be able to make a change in someone’s life while sipping away cocktails on the spectacular beach while taking in the breath-taking scenery. This is not even taking all the other cost into consideration like the excellent quality of food, vast variety of beverages, fuel etc. – making it fairly easy to calculate the actual profit margin of the hotel which is not as great as assumed by some. Having said that, with all honesty, the prices are 100% fair, affordable and incredible value for money – you absolutely pay for what you get and then some extra added value. The resort is very transparent and will supply you with all their menus and prices before your visit – educate yourself in advance to avoid any surprises or dissatisfaction. Now that the major check list is covered I’ll do a short summary on the secondary checklist that ultimately seals the deal.. The Spa: Incredible, an absolute must! My husband and I was very fortunate to experience at least 14 messages combined during our stay – the tranquillity, professionalism, quality and techniques is incomparable and supreme to any other spa we have visited before. Tip for Spa/Hotel management: It would be great to have a ‘spa loyalty’ initiative – meaning that for every x amount of treatments you get either a higher percentage discount or a treatment when combined with a message for free – I think guests of the spa would appreciate this gesture and feel even more valued. Tip for guest: The spa offer a 20% discount between the hours of 10am and 3pm – definitely worth considering. Hotel Amenities: The Beach, Pools, Grounds, Sport Centre, Gym, Library and Scenery; All I can say is seeing is indeed believing, although perfection is considered to be unattainable, I truly think Pimalai is the exception to this rule. And then last but definitely not the least.. The Staff: Even though we got to know some of the incredible staff better than others I feel it would be unfair to distinguish only some as ALL the staff were absolutely amazing, all contributing to an unforgettable experience. Their pride, sincere friendliness, caring spirits and willingness is infectious – Thank you to Frank and the team – you have helped built an empire to be tremendously proud of. “In a place far away, where the waters meets the sky, the thought of it makes me smile. You are my tomorrow, see you again..� – Carrie Underwood

There is a reason (in fact many) we keep coming back. First of the staff is amazing. They make you feel welcomed and appreciated. The food is great, not overly pricy for a 5 star hotel. Since it is green season we just simply enjoyed the hotel and its facilities, and did not venture out (pools, spa, beach). We enjoyed the morning walks at the beach and it's huge grounds.

Just returned from spending 8 beautiful days at the Pimalai Resort and Spa. Pretty sure a story gets told in the first paragraph and then finer details thereafter so here goes. If you are looking for a relaxing honeymoon, anniversary or just a romantic getaway where the service is first class and the hotel is of a very high standard, set in beautiful surroundings then Pimalai is definitely for you. Set in the beautiful hillside of Ba Kan Tiang Beach on the island of Koh Lanta the experience for us was impressive from the outset. Collection from the airport was a breeze and we were taken to the awaiting car with other guests heading to the resort. The car was large and comfortable and we were given clear instructions for the journey ahead. An hour’s drive to the jetty where we were met by more Pimalai staff who offered us cold drinks as we waited for them to load up luggage onto the speedboat (see high quality enclosed boat, not open to the weather going like a bat out of hell speedboat). Speedboat ride was 30 mins to the East coast of Koh Lanta (the floating jetty at the hotel was shut due to monsoon season). Collected at the Koh Lanta Town port and driven to the hotel which was another 25 mins or so. All in all I was dreading a 2hr transfer but honestly it was not a big thing. Arrival at the Lobby was the expected 5-star hotel, traditional Thai welcome, cold towel, welcome drink, lovely Thai staff and we were asked for the usual arrival information. Short while later we were taken to our One Bedroom Pool Villa notably room 715 via buggy which was some distance up the hill (Yes we did walk it a few times too !) The room was breathtaking, two separate rooms, one a lounge area with a fully functioning kitchen, but also shower, bathroom (toilet) and a wardrobe to hang clothes. In the lounge was a huge daybed and a large LED TV (yes USB works) a sound system and is fully airconditioned. Out on to the deck that has a table and chairs for eating and fabulous view of the forest which the hotel is built within and of course the Ocean View as well. The infinity pool is around 1.35m deep and is just a fantastic place to sit and overlook the ocean and forestry and just lose yourself, I won’t spoil it for those that have not been there and just leave it at that, experience it, you won’t forget it. The main bedroom is a large, very spacious area with another large LED TV, seating area, large bath, wardrobes, including ironing board and iron, wash basins, another bathroom (toilet) and another shower. Bath robes and slippers are provided should you want them. The reason I mention USB works is, we brought our own hard drive and due to the monsoon season spent a lot of time watching TV and enjoying our surroundings in the pouring rain, which is amazing to watch. We did not come for the sun as we live in QLD, Australia 😊, we just came for the relaxation and great food and great people which was a winner. Ok, so as brief as I can onto the resort, we ate at the Rak Talay Beach restaurant on the first night and the food was awesome, couple of drinks and two great meals and no change out of 1500THB, a tad expensive for Thailand but quality food. Hearing the ocean breaking as you are eating adds to the surrounding. It was a special wedding anniversary for us and the hotel made sure we were looked after with a delightful cake left in the room and for our anniversary dinner we ate at Seven Seas Restaurant, this was much more expensive however with the view and the ambience we felt it was worth it. Wine is expensive this is the case for Thailand and Malaysia, there is a 350% tax on arrival into the kingdom so expect to pay around $50 for a $10 bottle of wine, but again it’s the surroundings and experience. The food at the Seven Seas was of a very high quality, although the writer of this review is easily pleased so do not call me a ‘food critic’. The Spice restaurant is closed in the ‘green season’ and is moved to the Banyan Café. Go there every night and sample a different Thai dish, wow simply wow. Not expensive and fantastic Thai food, to the point I bought a recipe back with me !! The Same Same But Different restaurant to the left of the hotel when entering the beach is closed during June and maybe July so unable to comment. The Why Not Bar was half the price of the hotel, but half the quality too, so it’s a 5 Star Hotel vs a local restaurant. Worth a visit but we went twice in 8 days. The rest of the time we used the Banyan !! Pro Tip : In house dining is from the Banyan Café at the same price, so if you fancy Thai in your room just ring ‘3’ and order into the room, great food and great service whilst laying around lazy. Best way to describe cost is: If you want to drink during the day walk 300m to the right of the hotel once you hit the beach and go to the 7/11 and buy beer (San Miguel Light !) or Changi or other local beer at a quarter of the price of the hotel. Then head to any of the Bar’s within the restaurant for Happy Hour cocktail – Buy one get one free. Western food is expensive at the hotel, Thai food is very acceptable and you are paying for a 5 Star location. A beer is around 190 THB and a glass of wine is 300THB. Cocktails are 325THB but better for BOGOF at 5.30 and then again later. Food is around 900 THB for a steak and 350THB for a pizza so it depends which spectrum you are on. Guideline we spent 8 days at the Pimalai and with visits to the 7/11 for food and beer and wine, cocktail hour every night and sometimes missed the free one and paid full price, we spent around $900 AUD, we had great food great drinks (lots) and great service. Sorry for the long-winded post but we did not do any of the activities which were free, from Tennis and water-sports, just spent a fantastic 25 year anniversary with a special person at a special resort, go experience it. We always stay at 5 Star whether Thailand, Malaysia, Langkawi and this definitely rates as money well spent. Small issues were fixed immediately within the room, such as door lock sticking, no problem for us but the cleaners didn’t like it and it was fixed that day ! Pool light went out and it was fixed without us even asking. Special mentions for Kaew(sorry) beautiful waitress with a smile every day and remembered our names and our coffee order every day. Yes breakfast is awesome too !!! Try the Kaikata eggs too !! The Captain in the Seven Seas Bar made a special effort to tell us that the chillies were birds eye chillies in our food and spoke brilliant English and helped us with our limited Thai. Gun in the restaurant at the Seven Seas, knew we were struggling to find limes and sent a WHOLE plate of limes to our room, little things make a difference. Franck the not French but Italian GM was very attentive and engaged with guests often. Constructive feedback : The signs for where to go are not lit and are not easy to find for newcomers, we walked a fair while trying to find the Rak Talay Beach Bar first night and we did extra exercise trying to find it after being dropped off in the buggy. This meant we had to have extra drinks to compensate. Overall: Comparative to most 5 Star Hotels in Thailand, but with that extra add-on of the location in the hills, go get a Pool Villa it is worth the additional cost. It rained the whole time we were there and it didn’t matter at all. Thanks Pimalai !!!

We had a great time here in April 2017.. We stayed for 3 nights overlooking the beach. Amazing staff. Great Food, very clean.. Highly recommend spa - great for a scrub before tanning on the fantastic beach.. (with cocktail in hand) or enjoying watersports!! Best hotel we have ever stayed in.. We will definitely return in the future.