Experience innovative tranquillity on an island that Anantara has rediscovered and then reinvented for travellers and couples who expect more than an idyllic island life. Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa on picturesque Koh Phangan is an invitation to dream, journey and enjoy paradise.
In the Gulf of Thailand, north of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan has become famed for its vibrancy, yet still boasts bountiful natural attractions and a richly expressed heritage. Anantara now offers a gateway to the fascinations of island life from a hideaway that redefines barefoot luxury.
Tucked discreetly at the base of a lush mountain, amongst towering coconut palms and just steps from the powdery sands of Thong Nai Pan Noi beach, 44 private pool suites and villas in seven distinctive layouts face the turquoise sea. Comprising indoor and outdoor living spaces ranging from 100 to 250 square metres, each sanctuary reflects its own charming character. In natural harmony with the exotic surrounds, wood and stone features provide a striking backdrop to rich hand woven silks. Luxury comforts inside range from a “blissful dreams” mattress adorned with 500 thread count linens, to a 32 inch flat screen TV with home theatre entertainment, and outside to an indulgent private plunge pool.
Guests keep in touch with complimentary WiFi throughout the resort, accompanied by an extensive library with PCs alongside international magazines and newspapers. Light relief from the beach is also catered for by browsing unique artifacts at the boutique gift shop and energising sessions in the gym.
Dining at Rasananda can be a relaxed and casual affair or a creative connoisseur experience, depending on the mood and preference that each day brings. The resort’s signature Bistro @ The Beach sits prettily between a white sandy bay and the resort’s water gardens and pool, astounding guests with a blend of local techniques and international trends that transform seaside cuisine into long lasting impressions. Understated luxury and enviable choice are the hallmarks of The Lounge, where Phangan Island’s only sea view wine cellar features an incredible selection of wines and champagnes to be paired with fine cigars, enhanced by weekly cocktail parties and tasting journeys.
An invitation to reawaken vital energy comes from Anantara Spa, where the deliverance of ancient secrets paves the way toward beautiful wellbeing, whether a guest can only spare the time for an individual treatment, or has the freedom to embark upon an extended restorative journey. A feeling of being completely at one with nature is effortlessly achieved by open air teak wood treatment suites and salas that surround a lagoon fed by a jungle waterfall, shrouded by indigenous noni trees which rise amidst gigantic granite boulders and towering palms.
Anantara Spa’s holistic approach extends to private yoga classes for one or two people, which take place on the shady poolside deck of a guest’s private suite or villa, and on a spacious wooden platform nestling pristine sands to the sound of gentle waves. 90 minute lessons or elongated three, five and seven day programmes offer an inspirational approach, complete with spiritual quotes and focused intentions, as well as a personalised exercise plan to take home.
Lazy days can be spent unwinding at the beachfront infinity pool. Interactive resort experiences include mastering the art behind one of the world’s most popular cuisines with a Thai cooking class. While at the resort’s dedicated activities sala, guests can choose from a thrilling range of water sports including scuba diving, and book captivating excursions to suit every passion and holiday inclination.
The sparkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand beckon exploration, and the resort’s 37 foot ocean cruiser affords the perfect sailing escape. A day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park introduces guests to one of Thailand’s most beautiful reserves, where teeming reefs offer colourful snorkelling opportunities, crystal clear waters are ideal for kayaking, and a mountain climb reveals an impressive panorama. Anantara’s tropical rainforest adventure showcases the island’s distinctive cultural and natural attractions in one day, by combining snorkelling, archery, elephant trekking, a Thai boxing show and a herbal steam sauna. Local life can be encountered in a leisurely stroll through Phangan’s bustling walking street market held every Saturday, tempting visitors to browse for souvenirs, sample southern delicacies from street food vendors, and mix with fellow travellers at local bars.