FRIDAY, March 29, 2024
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Hideaway on the hill

Hideaway on the hill

In serene surroundings with stunning views over the ocean, Six Senses Samui is a perfect place to chill

Those planning a holiday on Samui inevitably face a dilemma: do you stay close to the action and entertainment with a hotel in what risks being in a noisy and crowded area or opt for seclusion in natural surroundings but away from the madding crowd. If the latter is what you’re looking for, Six Senses Samui is a decent choice for you.

Located on a hill on the northern most tip of Samui in Baan Plai Laem district, Six Senses Samui enjoys probably the best view on the island. Be warned though, it’s almost an hour away by car to vibrant Chaweng Beach but only 15 minutes from the airport.

While most hotels on hilly terrain stack up their villas in a kind of staircase landscape, Six Senses spreads its accommodation along a natural path. Every villa, no matter where it’s located on the property, has a totally unobstructed view of the picturesque ocean albeit from different angles. And since the villas have been built around the vegetation, there are just enough trees and plants around to keep it cool naturally while ensuring every residence has maximum privacy.

There are only 66 villas and they are all spacious and comfortable. The rooms here might seem smaller than those in other Six Senses properties, but they are cleverly designed with layers and levels. With up to 55 square meters of living space and 160 square meters in total, you get a sizeable bedroom and a large enough relaxing area – both indoors and outdoors  to unwind. There are day beds on the porch if you’re too lazy to go to the pool, and plunge pools invilla for a more private relaxation.

Amenities are not super luxurious, but thoughtful and sufficient. Each room comes with plush bed and pillows, flat screen LCD TV with cable channels and DVD player, tea and coffee maker, inroom wireless Internet connection, writing desk and standard bathroom amenities. Some villa types offer plunge bathtub with panoramic view of the ocean.

You have to walk down the hill to get to the beach, which is pleasant but not very big, and it is shared with the neighbouring guesthouses. If you don’t really need salty water on your skin, the hotel has a nice, big pool for the guests to enjoy. The property is a big, lush tropical garden, and it’s also very pleasant to walk around during the day.

And it’s not just the villas that have a great view: the food and beverage outlets also offer a stunning panorama. Breakfast is served at Dining on The Hill from where you can gaze out to the vast ocean, while awardwinning Dining on The Rock serves yummy “New Asian Cuisine” dinner with panoramic, high angle view of the Gulf of Thailand at night.

Couples will definitely enjoy this property, and families can also have a good time here. There are activities for children and a kid’s corner for them. And it’s safe to let them run around. For adults, there’s a library and the renowned Six Senses Spa to indulge.

At a glance

High points: The property is close to the airport. It has great view of the ocean and is located in beautiful, secluded mountain terrain. Rooms are simple and functional, and the food is decent.

Low points: You don't get to stay very close to the beach, as the hotel is propped on a hill. It's a bit of a walk, not to mention lots of steps, to get around unless you use the buggy service, and it's quite far from Samui's tourist spots.

Find it: The hotel is in Baan Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Surat Thani province.

Pay for it: Contact the hotel for the best rates and offers.

Phone it: (077) 245 67 or email [email protected]

Browse it: www.SixSenses.com

 

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