LUXURY TRAVEL 49
Guests can explore idyllic offshore islands such as Koh Haa
release 50 endangered turtles and millions of crabs into the Andaman Sea , as part of its commitment to conserving the marine environment , and guests can also join in regular beach cleaning activities to keep the shoreline and local islands free from litter .
No motorized water sports are permitted at Pimalai , but there are plenty of opportunities to feel the spray of the ocean waves with complimentary kayaking , paddle-boarding , wind-surfing and more . Koh Lanta is also a dream destination for snorkelling , and Pimalai is dedicated to keeping the offshore reefs healthy with coral propagation initiatives , the latest of which takes place this month , and the launch of a new coral restoration instructor course . PADI-certified scuba diving trips will also allow explorers to visit spectacular sites that teem with colourful sea creatures , including large schools of tropical fish , sea turtles , sharks and rays .
a pristine beach . The “ Mangroves Tour ” transports visitors into a lush coastal forest where wildlife abounds , and the “ Talabeng + Koh Lanta Old Town ” tour uncovers the dramatic limestone karsts and cliffs of Koh Talabeng island , before heading to Koh Lanta ’ s Old Town , a quaint port with more than 100 years of heritage .
Back at the resort , guests can unwind in style in a collection of 121 spacious rooms , suites and villas , plunge into shimmering infinity pools that appear suspended in the jungle canopy , enjoy soothing therapies at the award-winning Pimalai Spa , play tennis on full-size courts , or enjoy immersive activities such as yoga , muay Thai , cycling , fitness , Thai cooking classes and more . Four exquisite dining options include Rak Talay , which specialises in fresh Andaman seafood by the beach , Seven Seas , an impressive international finedining restaurant perched in the hillside overlooking the bay , Spice & Rice , the highly authentic Thai restaurant , and The Banyan Tree Poolside Café , which serves light bites and daytime refreshments .
Travellers can embark on small-scale , sustainable excursions to exotic offshore islands . The “ Koh Haa Sunset ” trip showcases a breath-taking collection of limestone islets which enclose a dazzling aquamarine lagoon , a technicolour reef and a pure white beach , while the “ Koh Ngai & Emerald Cave ” itinerary offers the chance to explore an amazing limestone cave that shimmers and shines , swim in a stunning hidden lagoon and relax on
Pimalai Spa
Issue 60 2023 THE ART OF LUXURY