Phuket is alive with people, incredible food and temples so gorgeous your camera will never leave your hand. But with hundreds of resorts on offer – where should you stay? We sent Elisa Elwin to do an Amatara Wellness Resort review. Here’s what she thought.
Location
On the tropical Thai island of Phuket set on the idyllic Cape Panwa, Amatara Wellness Resort is a 55-minute drive from Phuket International Airport. An easy 15-minute drive to the Central Festival Phuket shopping mall for some serious shopping, or head to Patong Beach only 30 minutes away for markets and street vendors in the thousands.
Want more inspiration of things to do in Thailand with kids? We’ve got you covered with our Things to do in Thailand with kids ultimate guide.
Why we stayed here
Having recently rebranded and on the radar for its serious and considered approach to wellness, this divine destination offers family fun and a healthy holiday in one. We were eager to experience the spacious stylish beach front private pool villas with a butler and all the amenities. Keeping everyone happy with bursts of time in the kids’ club whilst we spoiled ourselves to treatments after health and exercise classes in the zen of Amatara’s wellness sanctuary. Oh, did I forget to add how much we LOVE Thailand and her beautiful people?
Accommodation
Amatara Wellness Resort offers two distinct accommodation options. There are the 48 suites and five pavilions in the top section of the property near the infinity pool, wellness sanctuary and lobby. Each with stunning design and private balcony or terrace. Signature amenities, tropical fruits and a complimentary espresso machine are in each room with complimentary wi-fi keeping you connected should you need.
Winding pathways lead to the beach front where the 17 pool pavilions and 35 pool villas each with its own private pool are set in tropical gardens dotted along the oceanfront. The bathrooms are a vision with a freestanding spa bath holding court in the centre of its atrium surrounds. Each spacious stylish villa comes additional luxury value in the form of complimentary mini-bar, up to eight pieces of laundry each day, a dedicated butler from 8am till 10pm daily, complimentary daily afternoon tea in The Library and complimentary sunset drinks from 6-7 pm overlooking the Andaman Sea at the stunning rooftop Sun & Moon terrace.
The Instagrammable star of the resort is the breathtaking 55-metre infinity pool. If you can drag yourself away you will find a beach with direct access from the resort offering non-motorised water sports, tennis courts and a children’s club with its own wading pool and a variety of daily activities.
Wellness activities
Sunrise yoga, a sweat-inducing Muay Thai boxing session, or a supervised gym class or a pilates reformer session are just a few of the exercise options on offer. The Amatara really comes into its own with its comprehensive range of spa and holistic treatments. All offered in the breathtaking tranquil setting of the Wellness Zone.
Food & beverage
With seven dining options to choose from, there is something for all the family from including local Thai and international specialities with fresh fruit and seafood in abundance. Breakfast is a treat in The Restaurant with the groaning buffet providing healthy options and family favourites in abundance. The Grill and The Grill Lounge have more formal fine dining, whilst The Pool Terrace has lighter-style Western and Asian snacks with a selection of juices, soft drinks and a poolside cocktail for mum or dad.
If you want a little private family time, you can always order from the extensive room service menu for a relaxing night in.
Family Travel tip
The meandering paths through the resort can be steep and tiring for little legs. Amatara has a fleet of buggies to pick you up and drop you off.
Wellness Tip
Give yourself the sublime cleansing gift of a Thai Hammam experience. A world-first experience blending Turkish and Morrocan bathing rituals with Thai spa therapies. You will emerge pink, gleaming and at peace.
Important information
Phuket, Thailand
+66 7631 8888
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